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- Is Steel/Iron Ore A Good Career Path
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Find a Job You Really Want In
Yes, a career in steel and iron ore is a lucrative choice. Steel and iron ore continue to be essential materials in manufacturing, ensuring that this industry remains vibrant with numerous job opportunities. While entry-level roles may demand physical labor, there are ample pathways to advance into management or specialized positions within the sector.
If this resonates with you, the following list outlines various professions available in the steel and iron ore industry.
The 5 Best-Paying Jobs in Steel/Iron Ore
Iron ore is a fundamental element in the steel industry, and together, these materials are crucial in manufacturing both in the United States and globally. Many positions in the mining sector require physical labor, but specialized roles that involve supervisory or technical expertise often command higher salaries.
Explore these top-paying jobs in the steel and iron ore industry.
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Average Annual Salary: $60,000
In managerial roles like mine supervisor, salaries typically increase significantly. This position involves overseeing mining operations and managing staff to ensure efficient production.
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Average Annual Salary: $90,000
Metallurgical engineers play a vital role in processing mined minerals into finished products, ensuring the extraction methods optimize quality and efficiency.
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Average Annual Salary: $105,000
A senior field engineer oversees on-site operations and planning from inception to project completion, managing teams of field engineers to ensure successful execution.
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Average Annual Salary: $90,000
Structural engineers typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in engineering and proficiency with industry-specific software to design, test, and ensure the integrity of structures.
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Mining Geologist
Average Annual Salary: $85,000
Mining geologists assess the quality of iron ore and evaluate environmental impacts, developing strategies to mitigate adverse effects, which is crucial for sustainable mining practices.
10 Entry-Level Jobs in Steel/Iron Ore
The steel and iron ore industry is highly accessible to entry-level workers eager to start their careers and earn competitive wages. With determination and ambition, these roles can serve as gateways to rewarding career paths.
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Oil Field Frac Operator
Average Annual Salary: $55,000
As a trainee oil field frac operator, you will learn to perform operational procedures and equipment inspections, gaining hands-on experience essential for career development.
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Average Annual Salary: $50,000
Entry-level miners work underground, performing tasks such as digging, loading, and transporting iron ore using heavy machinery, offering a steep learning curve for new hires.
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Floorhand on a Drilling Rig
Average Annual Salary: $45,000
Entry-level floorhands on drilling rigs perform physically demanding tasks while assisting more experienced crew members, providing a pathway to learning and advancement.
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Diamond Driller Helper
Average Annual Salary: $40,000
As a diamond driller helper, you will support the driller with equipment setup, maintenance, and cleanup, gaining valuable experience in drilling operations.
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Average Annual Salary: $60,000
A CDL license opens opportunities for driving equipment and supplies within the steel and iron ore sectors.
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Average Annual Salary: $42,000
As a wireline operator, you will gain experience rigging up pressure control equipment and performing basic maintenance on tools, supporting crew leaders with essential tasks.
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Average Annual Salary: $50,000
Rig hands, also known as roughnecks, perform maintenance tasks on drilling rigs, providing essential support to the overall operation.
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Average Annual Salary: $30,000
Field hands assist in water transfer processes and support rig operations, learning from management and gaining practical experience.
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Swab Rig Hand
Average Annual Salary: $38,000
Swab rig hands perform physically demanding tasks while ensuring safety protocols are followed, developing valuable skills for future roles.
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Mine Production Technician
Average Annual Salary: $48,000
This role involves assisting in machine operations, operating haul trucks, and providing labor to support mining activities, making physical fitness a key asset.
Why Choose a Career in Steel/Iron Ore
The demand for steel is surging, particularly in urban development, indicating a robust need for iron ore. Job openings are plentiful, and the potential for salary increases is significant as demand grows.
Additionally, a career in this sector offers numerous benefits, making it an attractive option for job seekers.
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Job Security. The construction industry’s stability ensures demand for skilled workers in the iron ore and steel sectors, providing job security across various roles.
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Opportunities for Advancement. Entering the industry opens pathways for learning and upward mobility, with many companies promoting from within.
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Accessible Entry. Many entry-level positions are available for those ready to work hard, as the industry often experiences turnover due to physical demands.
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Physical Activity. For those who enjoy hands-on work, jobs in this field provide a great way to stay active and engaged.
Education and Certification Requirements for a Career in Steel or Iron Ore
While many roles in steel and iron ore are entry-level and focus on physical skills, higher education and certifications can facilitate career advancement.
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High School Diploma or GED. Obtaining a high school diploma or GED can enhance job prospects, as many employers consider it a basic requirement.
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On-the-Job Training. Practical training within the company is invaluable, focusing on job-specific skills and safety protocols.
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Associate’s or Technical Certifications. Pursuing an associate degree in a relevant field can boost career prospects and facilitate advancement.
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Bachelor’s Degree. For those aiming for corporate roles or management, a bachelor’s degree is essential to enter higher-level positions.
What Do People Working in Steel/Iron Ore Do?
Individuals in the steel and iron ore industry extract and process metals to create various products. As urban development accelerates, opportunities in this sector are expanding, particularly for those seeking entry-level positions focused on physical labor.
While there are corporate roles available, most positions are field-based, requiring hands-on work in mines and drilling sites.
Tailoring your skills during on-the-job training can lead you toward your desired career path, enhancing your experience and satisfaction in the steel and iron ore industry.
- Good Career Path
- Is Life Insurance A Good Career Path
- Is Medical Specialties A Good Career Path
- Is Other Specialty Stores A Good Career Path
- Is Water Supply A Good Career Path
- Is Miscellaneous Manufacturing Industries A Good Career Path
- Is Paper A Good Career Path
- Is Environmental Services A Good Career Path
- Is Specialty Chemicals A Good Career Path
- Is Retail Building Materials A Good Career Path
- Is Investment Bankers/Brokers/Service A Good Career Path
- Is Apparel A Good Career Path
- Is Fluid Controls A Good Career Path
- Is Television Services A Good Career Path
- Is Steel/Iron Ore A Good Career Path
- Is Advertising A Good Career Path
- Is Public Utilities A Good Career Path
- Is Food Chains A Good Career Path
- Is Savings Institutions A Good Career Path
- Is Medical/Dental Instruments A Good Career Path
- Is Military/Government/Technical A Good Career Path
- Is Clothing/Shoe/Accessory Stores A Good Career Path
- Is Ordnance And Accessories A Good Career Path
- Is Other Pharmaceuticals A Good Career Path
- Is Wholesale Distributors A Good Career Path
- Is Building Products A Good Career Path
- Is Electronic Components A Good Career Path
Author
Kristin Kizer is an award-winning writer, television and documentary producer, and content specialist who has worked on a wide variety of written, broadcast, and electronic publications. A former writer/producer for The Discovery Channel, she is now a freelance writer and delighted to be sharing her talents and time with the wonderful Zippia audience.
