Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Roof Bolter
What roof bolters actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a roof bolter?
Ride the mantrip in. From there, the day usually includes drill roof holes, install bolts, and install mesh. Shifts, often 10 to 12 hours.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a roof bolter working full time.
- Ride the mantrip in.
- Pre-shift exam.
- Bolt a new cut.
- Install mesh.
- Lunch underground.
- Test bolts.
- Ride out.
Where roof bolters work
Roof bolters work underground in mines.
Hours and schedule
Shifts, often 10 to 12 hours.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Drill roof holes
- Install bolts
- Install mesh
- Test roof conditions
- Follow ground control plans
- Maintain bolters
- Report hazards
Tools you’ll use every day
- Roof bolting machines
- Bolts and plates
- Mesh
- Torque wrenches
- Methane detectors
- Cap lamps
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Good underground pay
- Critical safety role
- Union jobs in some areas
- No degree needed
What’s hard
- Steep decline
- Underground hazards
- Dust
- Long shifts
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I can work underground
- I take safety seriously
- I like machines
- I can work long shifts
- I like teamwork
- I want mining pay
Not sure? Take the free Roof Bolter fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Never go under unsupported roof
- Check for methane
- Wear self-rescuers
- Follow MSHA rules