Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Maclean Operator

🎯 Role Definition

A Maclean Operator is a highly skilled professional and an integral part of the underground mining cycle, specializing in the operation of Maclean Engineering's range of mobile equipment. This pivotal role is primarily focused on ensuring the stability and safety of underground excavations through the installation of ground support systems. Working with precision and a deep commitment to safety, the operator utilizes sophisticated machinery like scissor bolters, cable bolters, and other utility vehicles to reinforce rock faces, contributing directly to the safety of the entire mine crew and the efficiency of production operations. This position demands a unique blend of technical expertise, spatial awareness, and unwavering focus in a challenging and dynamic environment.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Underground Mine Labourer / Nipper
Haul Truck Operator (Underground)
Apprentice Miner / Mining Technician

Advancement To:

Lead Hand / Lead Operator
Mine Supervisor / Shift Boss
Mine Operations Trainer

Lateral Moves:

Jumbo Drill Operator
Long-Hole Drill Operator
Shotcrete / Concrete Sprayer Operator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Skillfully operate Maclean scissor bolters, cable bolters, and other associated ground support equipment to install rock bolts, screen, and other support systems according to geological data and engineering plans.
Perform thorough pre-operational walk-around inspections and function tests on the equipment at the start of each shift, meticulously documenting findings in logbooks and reporting any defects to maintenance personnel.
Assess ground conditions at the rock face and surrounding areas before and during operation, identifying potential hazards such as loose rock or changing geological structures.
Bar down loose rock from the back (roof) and walls of the excavation to create a safe working area for personnel and equipment.
Interpret and follow detailed mine plans, ground control plans, and survey instructions to ensure accurate placement and installation of ground support elements.
Manage and maintain an inventory of drilling and bolting consumables, such as drill bits, steel, bolts, resin, and screen, ensuring adequate supplies are on hand to complete assigned tasks.
Adhere strictly to all company, provincial, and federal health and safety regulations, policies, and procedures to foster a culture of zero harm.
Communicate effectively with shift supervisors, geologists, engineers, and other crew members regarding ground conditions, work progress, and any operational or safety issues.
Operate the machine with precision to drill holes to the specified depth, angle, and pattern required by the ground support design.
Handle and install resin cartridges or grout for bolt anchoring, ensuring proper mixing and curing times are observed for maximum support effectiveness.
Install and tension various types of rock bolts, including friction bolts (e.g., Split Sets, Swellex) and resin-grouted rebar, to the required torque or pressure specifications.
Maneuver the large, complex machinery safely and efficiently within the confined spaces of underground drifts and stopes, navigating around other equipment and personnel.
Conduct basic preventative maintenance and servicing on the Maclean unit, including lubrication, fluid checks, and minor adjustments to minimize downtime.
Troubleshoot minor mechanical, hydraulic, or electrical issues that may arise during operation, and assist maintenance crews with more complex repairs when required.
Complete detailed daily reports documenting activities, including the number of bolts installed, cycle times, equipment hours, delays, and any safety incidents.
Position and install wire mesh or screen panels onto the rock face as part of the ground support system, ensuring proper overlap and secure fastening.
Maintain a high standard of housekeeping in the work area and within the operator's cab, keeping the environment clean, organized, and free of hazards.
Actively participate in daily toolbox talks, safety meetings, and risk assessments, contributing to a proactive safety culture within the team.
Operate remote-control functions of the equipment where applicable, allowing for operation from a safe distance in potentially hazardous areas.
Provide clear and concise turnover information to the operator on the subsequent shift to ensure a seamless and safe transition of work.

Secondary Functions

Assist maintenance personnel with scheduled preventative maintenance services and major repair work on underground equipment.
Mentor and provide on-the-job training and guidance to less experienced or trainee operators to enhance team skill and competency.
Participate in site-wide safety initiatives, audits, and emergency response drills as a key member of the operations team.
Support ancillary mining activities as required, such as operating other utility vehicles for materials transport or providing services to other work crews.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Maclean Equipment Operation: Demonstrated proficiency in operating specific Maclean models, particularly scissor bolters and cable bolters, in an underground environment.
Ground Support Installation: In-depth knowledge of various ground support techniques, materials, and quality control measures.
Reading Mine Plans: Ability to read, interpret, and apply information from technical mine layouts, schedules, and ground control management plans.
Basic Mechanical Aptitude: Competency in performing routine preventative maintenance, minor troubleshooting, and assisting with repairs on heavy-duty hydraulic and diesel equipment.
Regulatory Knowledge: Strong understanding of underground mining regulations (e.g., MSHA, provincial Mining Acts) pertaining to equipment operation and ground control.
Drilling and Bolting Fundamentals: Comprehensive knowledge of drilling principles, including bit selection, percussion, rotation, and flushing for different rock types.

Soft Skills

Safety-First Mindset: An unwavering commitment to personal and team safety, with the discipline to follow all procedures without exception.
Spatial Awareness: Excellent three-dimensional awareness to navigate heavy machinery in tight, confined, and often dark spaces without incident.
Problem-Solving: The ability to quickly assess operational or ground condition issues and implement effective and safe solutions.
Communication: Clear and effective verbal communication skills for coordinating with team members, supervisors, and other crews over radio and in person.
Work Ethic: A strong, self-motivated work ethic with the ability to work productively with minimal supervision in a demanding environment.
Teamwork: The capacity to work collaboratively and professionally as part of a close-knit production or development crew.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED.
Completion of a recognized Underground Hard Rock Common Core program (or provincial equivalent).

Preferred Education:

Post-secondary diploma or certificate in a mining-related field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Mining Engineering Technology
Heavy Equipment Operator Training

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 2-5 years of direct experience as an equipment operator in an underground hard rock mine.

Preferred: 3+ years of dedicated experience operating Maclean ground support equipment (e.g., Maclean 900 Series Scissor Bolter, Cable Bolter). A proven track record of safe and efficient operation is highly valued.