• project management, people management and leadership skills
• proposal writing and presentation skills
• knowledge of mining methods and different mining processes
• knowledge of the practical aspects of operating a mine
• knowledge of geology, maths, physics, and chemistry
• excellent communication skills
• analytical, research and computer skills
• problem-solving skills
• decision-making abilities
• finance and budgeting skills.

Mining engineers need to be:

• confident talking to, instructing and liaising with a wide range of people
• able to identify, analyse and solve problems
• creative
• practical and efficient
• able to remain calm in emergencies
• able to work well under pressure
• able to act on their own initiative, and as part of a team 
• responsible, forward-thinking and disciplined 
• concerned for others.