Will AI replace roof bolters?

Mining is increasingly automated to remove humans from dangerous environments, putting this role at risk. However, the unpredictable nature of rock formations in underground mines keeps some human presence necessary for the near term.

Roof Bolter scores 48/100 — Parts of this job will change — adaptation matters. Roughly 65% of the tasks in this role could be automated with current and near-future AI.

The US median salary for a roof bolter is about $62,450 per year, with projected employment growth of -22% over the next decade (declining).

Drilling holes in a pre-set grid pattern in stable rock faces. Inserting and torquing bolts to a specified tension in routine tunnels. Logging the location and depth of every bolt installed for safety records. Monitoring the hydraulic pressure of the bolting equipment.

Roof Bolter has a moderate AI risk score (48/100) and a -22% 10-year outlook. Compare it with your current job or use the salary calculator to see how a switch would affect your pay.

AI can speed up routine roof bolter tasks like Drilling holes in a pre-set grid pattern in stable rock faces. and Inserting and torquing bolts to a specified tension in routine tunnels.. The most resilient workers learn to direct these tools while focusing on the human judgment, creativity and physical work that AI can't easily replicate.