Geological Technician (Surface Mining Geological Technician)

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Surface Mining Geological Technician. A Surface Mining Geological Technician performs, observes, records and interprets geological data from surface mining geological deposits to provide geological information. His role is also to map and evaluate the deposits to assist Geologists to obtain, analyse and report geological data and to assist in ensuring mining and sampling production requirements are met. The qualifying learner will know and be able to perform the functions of a Surface Mining Geological Technician. A qualified learner will be able to: • Perform geological activities in support of Geologists or Geological Technicians for surface mining operations. • Perform Geological Technician functions for surface mining operations.

Mineral resource exploitation, beneficiation and export are key components of the Southern African economy. Mining operations are supported by Mining Geologists, who in turn rely on Geological Technicians. The need for improved quality standards to maximise efficiencies within the Mining Industry coupled with the increasing complexity and declining grades of many Southern African mining operations has resulted in a greater need for geological skills. Maintaining standards have been established and emphasis has been placed on providing appropriate geological training, which will contribute to the development of new mines and extending the life of existing mines. This will provide employment opportunities both within the Mining Industry and in the numerous support industries. This qualification contains the necessary skills for competent Surface Mining Geological Technicians, but also provides learning related to the relevant health and safety regulations, in accordance with the relevant legislation. Learners entering this qualification will typically be new entrants to the mining sector, or existing employees in geology, survey or sampling operations, working as Technical Support Assistants. Qualifying learners will be competent Surface Mining Geological Technicians. This qualification will serve to improve the current training model, the standard of training and assessment and the opportunity for learners to progress further in the geology field, or into the fields of sampling, strata control or surveying.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result or certifying a work experience record. RPL for access to the qualification: Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements. Entry Requirements: The minimum entrance requirement is: • NQF Level 1 in Communication and Mathematical Literacy.

• Implement surface geological sampling activities, using the knowledge and understanding of surface mining operations, geology and geological principles, methods, procedures, processes and practices.
• Execute surface geological data collection activities, using the knowledge and understanding of mining operations, geology and geological principles, methods, procedures, processes and practices.
• Perform processing activities on collected data using the knowledge and understanding of mining operations, geology and geological principles, methods, procedures, processes and practices.