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Mining Technician

Start Your Mining Career with Practical Skills and Industry-Ready Training

Mining students examining a core sample.

Program Overview

The Mining Technician program at Ä¢¹½ÊÓÆµÍø (CWI) is tailored to provide you with the knowledge and technical skills needed to succeed in Idaho's thriving mining sector. Through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on field training, you will gain a solid understanding of geological fundamentals, mining technology, and environmental management. With a focus on industry-standard equipment and practices, this program ensures you are prepared for a wide range of geotechnical roles.

Whether you aim to enter the workforce or transfer to a four-year program, this degree sets the stage for your success. Build a strong academic foundation while exploring career opportunities as a geotechnical technician, mine surveyor, or environmental technician. With options to fit your learning needs and lifestyle, you can confidently begin your educational journey, knowing you are equipped to succeed in the mining industry or continue your studies toward a four-year degree.

Degree or Certificate Type

Associate of Science

Cost

$9,630

Additional cost may apply.

Time to Complete

2 years

Primary Location

Mining student examining rock.

Learning Opportunities

  • Geological Foundations: Develop expertise in identifying rocks, minerals, and understanding geologic processes, including structures, ore deposits, and hydrology.
  • Industry Tools & Techniques: Gain hands-on experience with fieldwork, laboratory methods, and advanced industry-standard equipment and software.
  • Problem-Solving Skills: Learn to analyze geological data and address mining challenges with critical thinking and practical solutions.
  • Safety & Environmental Practices: Understand mining safety protocols and sustainable practices to manage environmental impacts responsibly.
  • Collaboration & Communication: Build teamwork and communication skills essential for success in diverse, multidisciplinary mining teams.

Areas of Study

Degrees & Certificates

Mining Technician – Associate of Science

2

YEARS

AS

Cost: $9,630

Mining Techniciah out in the field holding rocks

Career Opportunities

  • Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other

    All engineering technologists and technicians, except drafters, not listed separately.

    16

    Annual Openings*

    $28.03

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $58,302

    Annual Median Salary

    8.41%

    Growth (2025 – 2035)*

  • Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians

    Assist scientists or engineers in the use of electronic, sonic, or nuclear measuring instruments in laboratory, exploration, and production activities to obtain data indicating resources such as metallic ore, minerals, gas, coal, or petroleum. Analyze mud and drill cuttings. Chart pressure, temperature, and other characteristics of wells or bore holes.

    2

    Annual Openings*

    $22.12

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $46,010

    Annual Median Salary

    14.38%

    Growth (2025 – 2035)*

  • Service Unit Operators, Oil and Gas

    Operate equipment to increase oil flow from producing wells or to remove stuck pipe, casing, tools, or other obstructions from drilling wells. Includes fishing-tool technicians.

    N/A

    Annual Openings*

    $27.46

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $57,117

    Annual Median Salary

    N/A

    Growth (2025 - 2035)*

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*Data sourced from Lightcastâ„¢, a labor market analytics tool, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data. Career pathways may require further education beyond CWI.

Admissions

Step 1

Step 2

  • Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
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208.562.3000onestop@cwi.eduLocations