Continuous Mining Machine Operators

Task by task

Each task this job involves, as listed by O*NET, rated on whether a large language model like GPT-4 could cut the time it takes by at least half at the same quality. Tasks marked Seen in real AI use appeared in conversations with Claude in April–May 2026 (Anthropic Economic Index).

• AI can speed this up on its own: 0 (0%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 0 (0%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 15 (100%)

• Hang ventilation tubing and ventilation curtains to ensure that the mining face area is kept properly ventilated.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Conduct methane gas checks to ensure breathing quality of air.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Check the stability of roof and rib support systems before mining face areas.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Operate mining machines to gather coal and convey it to floors or shuttle cars.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Drive machines into position at working faces.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Move controls to start and regulate movement of conveyors and to start and position drill cutters or torches.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Reposition machines to make additional holes or cuts.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Determine locations, boundaries, and depths of holes or channels to be cut.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Observe and listen to equipment operation to detect binding or stoppage of tools or other equipment malfunctions.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Repair, oil, and adjust machines, and change cutting teeth, using wrenches.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Install casings to prevent cave-ins.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Scrape or wash conveyors, using belt scrapers or belt washers, to minimize dust production.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Move levers to raise and lower hydraulic safety bars supporting roofs above machines until other workers complete framing.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Apply new technologies developed to minimize the environmental impact of coal mining.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Guide and assist crews laying track and resetting supports and blocking.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task