Jobs Needed on Iron Range

According to the most recent data from the Minnesota Department of Employment & Economic Development, Minnesota's statewide unemployment rate in January was at 6.4 percent. However, in northeastern Minnesota unemployment is even higher. The unemployment rate in St. Louis County is 7.3 percent, in Lake County, 6.5 percent and in Cook County, 7.9 percent. Employment in the tourism sector, for example, is at its lowest point in 18 years. The need for long-term, high wage jobs across the Iron Range is clear.

Creating Jobs for Generations of Minnesotans
The Twin Metals Minnesota proposed underground mining project will produce hundreds, potentially thousands, of Minnesota jobs for both construction and long-term operations.

Positions will be available for geologists, engineers, carpenters, safety inspectors, mine designers, mapping experts, mechanics, electricians, miners, truck drivers, drillers, IT professionals and business administrators.

  To date, Twin Metals Minnesota has invested more than
  $150 million in exploration and project development
  activities, supporting more than 160 direct
  and consultant/contractor jobs. In January and February
  2012 alone, Twin Metals Minnesota invested $5 million
  in drilling activity related to project development
  and environmental protection activities, 
                                                     supporting more than 100 full time jobs.

Mining Offers Higher Wages
Mining jobs provide significantly higher wages, on average, than other industrial sectors. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual wage for Minnesota mining jobs is $72,365, compared to the all-industries average of $46,985, a difference of 54 percent. Mining jobs can support a family and sustain communities for the long term.