Meet Victor, UA alumnus and Mining Engineer at Freeport McMoRan
A Typical Work Day for a Mining Engineer
What does a mining engineer actually do? The short answer: a little bit of everything.
Mining engineering is a dynamic field where every day brings new challenges and opportunities to make real-world impact. Whether you're designing a blast pattern, analyzing pit wall stability, or improving safety systems with cutting-edge data, your work touches everything from the environment to the economy.
To bring this career path to life, we asked University of Arizona Mining Engineering graduate Victor Nieto to share what a typical day looks like in his role at Freeport-McMoRan’s Sierrita Mine in southern Arizona.
A Career That’s as Varied as the Terrain
“It’s a great 50/50, field-and-desk job,” Victor says. “I love solving problems with data — and then seeing those solutions come to life on the ground.”
Mining engineers wear many hats, often moving between field inspections, data analysis, team meetings, and real-time problem-solving. One day might involve walking the pit and checking blast sites; the next could be spent designing optimization models, reviewing safety protocols, or troubleshooting an equipment issue.
At companies like Freeport-McMoRan, new mining engineers go through multiple rotations early in their careers. These rotations help engineers gain exposure to different specialties and build a comprehensive skill set.
Learning Through Rotation
Victor’s rotations included:
Drill & Blast Engineering – Designing blast patterns, managing the drill fleet, and optimizing fragmentation.
Geomechanics – Monitoring pit wall stability using radar and satellite LiDAR, leading dewatering systems, and helping ensure the safety of people and equipment.
Innovation Engineering – Acting as an internal consultant to improve operational efficiency across departments—from tailings and crushers to maintenance and electrical systems.
“I’ve helped with blasting, pit wall monitoring, dewatering, even mill operations. Mining is constantly evolving, and you’re always learning.”
The Technology Behind It All
Modern mining relies on sophisticated tools and technologies to work smarter and more sustainably. Engineers like Victor use:
Ground-based radar to measure wall movement down to fractions of an inch
InSAR (satellite-based LIDAR) for large-scale monitoring
Piezometers and dewatering networks to manage underground water
Data platforms that track, model, and visualize operations in real time
“We’re constantly predicting and preventing problems before they happen. That’s the kind of responsibility that makes this career so rewarding.”
Meaningful Work, Tangible Impact
A typical day in mining engineering isn’t just engaging—it’s impactful. The materials mined and managed by engineers help power clean energy systems, build infrastructure, and support everyday life. At the same time, engineers are stewards of responsible extraction and sustainability.
“What’s cool about this industry is that you’re not just solving technical problems—you’re supporting your community, the economy, and even global sustainability goals. It’s a career that really matters.”
From outdoor adventure to global travel opportunities, a career in mining engineering can take you far—literally and figuratively. As Victor puts it:
“You get to be outside. You work on huge, interesting problems. You even get to operate heavy machinery and blow things up—safely! It’s one of the most exciting and impactful careers out there.”
Ready to Explore Mining Engineering?
Contact your advisor, Mario Munoz.
520-621-2211