General Labourer

We need General Labourers to provide valuable assistance and support to Mineral Processing Operators and other mill employees. A great way to gain experience in the mining industry, General Labourers must be fit, collaborative and enjoy working with their hands.

What is it Like to Work as a General Labourer in Mining?

Note: conditions vary according to employer and region.

General Labourers help with a variety of tasks, which provides valuable experience and the opportunity to learn many new skills.  Hands-on tasks can be repetitive and many may be physically demanding with prolonged periods of walking, standing, bending, crouching or kneeling, with heavy lifting of up to 23 kg (50 lbs) (based on job research, 2014).

Why are People Attracted to this Career?

General Labourers gain practical experience while earning a competitive wage. This entry-level position gives candidates the chance to prove that they are capable, while also providing opportunities to train for jobs that require more experience or specific skills.

Job Description

  • Assist Process and Machine Operators in mineral ore and metal processing

  • Help Mineral Processing Operators and other mill workers to move ore and metal by using bins, conveyors, chutes, weigh scales, railcar movers and front-end loaders

  • Assist Mineral Processing Operators in processing ore and metal by monitoring, operating or maintaining pumps, valves, crushers, flotation cells, cyclones, thickeners and screens

  • Clean work areas and equipment

  • Transport scrap materials through the plant

  • Follow checklists and complete log books

  • Report any hazards or safety concerns to a Frontline Supervisor

Starting salary

$19.55/hour

Top Salary

$40.07/hour

Demand in Mining

1 2 3 4 5

Skill Transferability Among Other Industries

1 2 3 4 5

Success Profile

  • Follows clear policies and processes

  • Comfortable working at heights

  • Committed to safe work habits

  • Enjoys hands-on work and mechanically inclined

  • Good listening and problem-solving skills

  • Positive attitude and works well with others

  • Willing to learn and perform repetitive tasks

Job Entry Requirements

Note: The requirements listed below illustrate what it takes to start the career and does not take into account on-the-job training given to new employees.

Fixed Requirements

  • Physically fit and mobile

  • Must be able to pass a medical test

  • Must be able to pass a drug test

  • Willingness to work in a diverse workplace

  • Proficiency in language of operation

May be Required

  • High school diploma or equivalent

  • Provide own safety equipment (e.g., approved steel-toed boots)

  • Demonstrated ability to work under minimal supervision

  • Undergo a criminal record check

  • Valid driver’s licence (or eligible for a driver’s licence) with few or no current infractions

Assets

  • Knowledge of safe operation of hand tools

  • Experience operating light or heavy-duty equipment

  • Experience cleaning complex mechanical equipment

  • Basic understanding of how machines work

  • Willingness to relocate

  • Other languages