Career Profile

Roof Bolters, Mining

What they do:

Operate machinery to install roof support bolts in underground mine.

Also Called:

Bolt Machine Operator, Bolt Man, Bolter, Miner, Place Change Roof Bolter, Roof Bolter, Roof Bolter Operator, Underground Miner, Underground Roof Bolter, Bolt Machine Operator, Bolt Man, Bolter, Miner, Place Change Roof Bolter, Roof Bolter, Roof Bolter Operator, Underground Miner, Underground Roof Bolter
$24,020
Starting Salary (2025)
$48,950
Median Salary (2025)
-34.2%
Projected Job Growth
390
TX Employment (2025)

Typical Tasks

Drill bolt holes into roofs at specified distances from ribs or adjacent bolts.
Force bolts into holes, using hydraulic mechanisms of self-propelled bolting machines.
Perform safety checks on equipment before operating.
Perform tests to determine if methane gas is present.
Position bolting machines, and insert drill bits into chucks.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work
Investigative
Studying, Research based work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Attention to Detail
Dependability
Cooperation
Self-Control
Concern for Others
Integrity

What key skills are needed for this job?

Operation and Control
Critical Thinking
Operations Monitoring
Monitoring
Troubleshooting
Active Listening

Expected Knowledge

Production and Processing

Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.

Education and Training

Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.

Public Safety and Security

Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.

Common Activities

Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials

Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.

Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment

Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.

Controlling Machines and Processes

Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).

Education & Preparation

Some occupations may require additional education, advanced degrees, and years of experience in the field.
Talk to your support team on campus about this career pathway and additional degree information.
Job Zone 2

Some Preparation Needed

Education

These occupations usually require a high school diploma.

Experience

Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed.

Training

Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

Typical Education Required

Education a new hire may need

  • High school diploma 87%
  • Less than high school 13%
Source: O*NET Education, Training & Experience data

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