Case studies: Process engineer: Paul

Paul graduated in 2006 with a 2:2 BEng in Mineral Engineering. He studied at Camborne School of Mines (CSM).

I stumbled across CSM when looking for applied geology degrees and, with a background and interest in chemistry at A-level, I decided this was the degree for me. During my second year it was mandatory to do a vacation placement in the industry. Dorr Oliver Eimco took me on for three months and I travelled to Ireland, Russia, Bulgaria and Sweden while with the company. When I graduated, because of this experience and my very specific degree, I went straight into the job they offered me as a process engineer. Since then I’ve travelled to America, Australia, Finland, France, German and Turkey to name just a few. I’ve worked with a wide range of mineral types, from coal to gold, iron to diamonds, nickel to copper, lead and zinc.

The degree was directly related to the job, teaching the basics of the world of mineral processing, mining and geology. There's a close relationship between mining companies and CSM, with teaching, research and analysis all being given from both sides and jobs and opportunities open from this relationship.

The 'old boys' who have graduated can be found on all the continent of the world - you’re probably never far away from an Associate of CSM in the mining industry, and they are always up for having a beer at the local bar.

My job is to test, design and commission the equipment (start it up and make it work) that our company sells to the industry. This can involve testing in our lab or on site. Communication skills are developed while designing the equipment with the mechanical, electrical and project engineers from our company, suppliers and clients. The people you work with on site don’t always speak English, but that’s part of the fun and you learn to communicate, which normally leads to laughter.

My job allows me to travel the world, work with big interesting projects and have a laugh with work colleagues and has allowed me to work from a location I love to live in, Cornwall. Over the next few years I want to develop my experience and knowledge, which will increase my value to the company - and the wages and bonuses accordingly.

The minerals industry allows you to work virtually anywhere in the world, with good job prospects and high wages.