Roof Bolters, Mining
Construction and Extraction
Positions a self-propelled bolting machine under the mine roof, drills holes at set distances from the ribs or nearby bolts, and uses hydraulic force to push support bolts in. Loose rock that cannot be held is pulled down; after bolting, they dust the rock. Safety checks on the equipment, methane tests, and hanging ventilation curtains or tubes are part of the same shift. The work is underground, close to the roof, and physical. It suits people who like repetitive machine work, close attention to spacing, and routine safety tests.
Typical education: High School Diploma or GED
Annual Median Wage in Field (2025)
$78'540
Median Wage Market Position
$78'540
What you might do
- Drill bolt holes into the mine roof
- Force roof bolts into the drilled holes
- Line up the bolter and seat a drill bit
- Pull down loose rock that will not hold
- Test for methane before you start drilling
- Hang ventilation curtains at the work spot
Skills that matter
- Bolt holes spaced from ribs and nearby bolts
- Loose rock pulled when it cannot hold
- Hydraulic bolter used to seat each bolt
- Methane tested before the machine starts
- Bolting machine checked before each use
- Roof conditions called out to others
AI & the future of this role
Roof support work happens underground in cramped, hazardous spaces where bolt placement and ground conditions demand care. Assisted drilling may speed installs, but in-person safety judgment and physical setup are likely to keep the role resilient.
Does Roof Bolters, Mining fit your values?
Take the free LostInCareer assessment to see personalized matches based on your core values—not just a personality label.
Related careers
Includes O*NET® 30.3 Database information by USDOL/ETA under CC BY 4.0; modified by LostInCareer. Wage/outlook from BLS. Attribution details