Mining jobs on the decline in Saxony: Over 800 workers affected
The mining sector in Saxony has been experiencing a decrease in employment numbers over the past few years. While there were over 2,200 individuals employed in the mining industry back in 2019, only around 2,000 people held jobs there in 2020, according todata from the Federal Employment Agency. This downward trend includes approximately 800 traditional miners.
Let's delve deeper into the various jobs within the mining sector beyond the role of traditional miners. Mechanical and plant engineers, janitors, security services, and administrative and office clerks are among the occupations employed in this sector. Notably, the district of Bautzen stands out as housing a substantial portion of the industry's workforce, with nearly one in four employees in mining residing there.
Lignite continues to be mined in Saxony for energy production. However, the Upper Mining Authority's overview also cites the extraction of stone, earth, kaolin, and fluorspar in addition to plans for the development of new mines, such as those manufacturing lithium and tin.
The Federal Employment Agency recognizes the importance of attracting and retaining skilled workers in the aging mining industry. Given that approximately one-third of the current workforce is set to retire within the next ten years, the Association is actively promoting careers in mining to both men and women. The industry's technological advancements, such as the use of robotic vehicles and automatic drilling machines, as well as the potential for lucrative earnings, contribute to its appeal.
In 2020, there were 20 apprentices training for professions in mining, open-cast mining, and blasting technology across Germany. These vocations boast good earning opportunities, with yearly salaries clocking in over 600 euros higher than the average for all full-time employees, as reported by the Federal Employment Agency.
Additional Insights:
While the base article fails to elaborate on the Federal Employment Agency’s strategies to cope with the decline in the mining industry, some context can be drawn from broader economic developments:
- Diversification in the Saxon economy - Saxony is focusing on expanding sectors such as electronics, machinery, pharmaceuticals, and automobile manufacturing to offset the downturn in traditional mining industries.
- Environmental and social impact assessments - Companies planning to develop new mining projects in Saxony, such as Zinnwald Lithium PLC, are focusing on minimizing environmental impact and promoting sustainable growth.
- Vocational training programs - Companies like Continental's ContiTech group are offering training courses and workshops to help workers adapt to industry shifts, indicating a proactive approach to workforce development.
European policies - The European CRM Act aims to streamline administrative procedures and timeframes for mining projects, aiming to support the industry's transition and spur growth.
Although these initiatives do not directly address the Federal Employment Agency's strategy to address the decline in Saxony's mining industry, they provide insight into broader market trends and regulatory environments. To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the Federal Employment Agency's specific tactics, additional sources would be required.
