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Above Ground Mining Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Turner Mining Group

Geotechnical Engineer

Elko, NV · On-site

... of mining projects. This role supports open-pit mines, underground mines, tailings storage ... ground stability and geotechnical risks. Geotechnical Engineers work closely with mine planning ...

Protouch Staffing

Mechanical Designer

Boise, ID

More than 10 years of experience in the mining industry with an emphasis on the design of conveyor ... above-ground and underground structures, mechanical installations, and equipment * Create ...

Stantec

Construction Leader

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

Join our team of mining professionals and you'll be at the forefront of this evolving industry ... above ground, below ground, and shaft, headframe and hoist house related construction activity.

Stantec

Construction Leader

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

Join our team of mining professionals and you'll be at the forefront of this evolving industry ... above ground, below ground, and shaft, headframe and hoist house related construction activity.

Stantec

Construction Leader

Denver, CO · On-site

Join our team of mining professionals and you'll be at the forefront of this evolving industry ... above ground, below ground, and shaft, headframe and hoist house related construction activity.

Stantec

Construction Leader

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$141K - $212K/yr

... above ground, below ground, and shaft, headframe and hoist house related construction activity ... Provide safety leadership to maintain a safe mining work environment * Oversee and perform day-to ...

EMCOR Group Inc

MOR PPM, Inc.

Pineville, SC · On-site

... paper, chemical, mining, and general manufacturing industries. We provide a full range of ... Able to work above ground level and use high pressure water hose, sweep, pull trash, mop and ...

ASARCO LLC

Welding Technician

Sahuarita, AZ · On-site

Poor footing, hot and cold temperatures, heights (up to 150' above ground), restricted lighting ... Experience with Mining and heavy equipment repair required A core value of ASARCO LLC is "Safety ...

ASARCO LLC

Welding Technician

Marana, AZ · On-site

Poor footing, hot and cold temperatures, heights (up to 150' above ground), restricted lighting ... Experience with Mining and heavy equipment repair required * Ability to interpret a variety of ...

Martin Marietta

Project Coordinator

Gabbs, NV · On-site

Coordinate daily, weekly, and monthly project activities across mining, processing, maintenance ... Monitor progress of above-ground construction and operational improvement projects * Support change ...

ASGCO Manufacturing, Inc.

CNC Machinist

Nazareth, PA

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Nazareth, PA SIGN-ON BONUS ASGCO engineers, manufactures, and distributes a wide array of conveyor and screening components, all specifically designed for the above-ground and underground mining ...

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All JobsAbove Ground Mining Jobs

Above Ground Mining information

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$100.5K

$126.9K

$150.5K

How much do above ground mining jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for above ground mining in the United States is $126,935.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $113,500.00 and $140,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Above Ground Mining vs Open-Pit Mining?

AspectAbove Ground MiningOpen-Pit Mining
Work EnvironmentSurface operations above ground, often in controlled sitesLarge-scale surface excavation in open pits
Common CertificationsMining safety certifications, heavy equipment operationSame as above ground mining, with focus on excavation safety
Industry UsageUsed in mineral extraction, coal, and metal miningPrimarily for mineral and ore extraction in large deposits

Above Ground Mining involves surface extraction methods in controlled environments, while Open-Pit Mining is a specific type of surface mining that involves large-scale excavation in open pits. Both roles share similar certifications and work environments, but Open-Pit Mining emphasizes large-scale excavation techniques. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path within surface mining operations.

What is the highest paying job in the mining sector?

In the mining sector, the highest paying jobs are typically senior engineering roles such as Mining Engineers or Geologists, especially those with specialized skills or management responsibilities. Executive positions like Mine Managers or Directors also command high salaries, often exceeding six figures, due to their leadership and oversight responsibilities. These roles usually require extensive experience, technical expertise, and relevant certifications.

What is an above ground mine called?

An above ground mine is commonly called an open-pit or open-cut mine. These mines involve extracting minerals from a large, surface excavation, often requiring heavy machinery and safety precautions. Above ground mining is contrasted with underground mining, which involves tunnels below the surface.

What is above ground mining?

Above ground mining, also known as surface mining, is a method of extracting minerals and other resources from the Earth's surface rather than from underground. This process involves removing soil, rock, and other materials to access mineral deposits close to the surface. Common types of above ground mining include open-pit mining, strip mining, and quarrying. This method is often used when mineral deposits are located near the surface and spread across large areas, making it more economical and safer than underground mining in such cases.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Above Ground Mining Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Above Ground Mining Worker, you need a solid understanding of mining operations, machinery handling, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma and relevant industry training or certifications. Familiarity with equipment like haul trucks, loaders, and mine monitoring systems, as well as certifications such as MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration) are typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for ensuring safety and productivity. These skills and qualifications ensure efficient mineral extraction, minimize workplace hazards, and support a safe, collaborative mining environment.

What are some typical challenges faced by workers in above ground mining, and how are they addressed on the job?

Above ground mining workers often face challenges such as exposure to varying weather conditions, operating heavy machinery safely, and maintaining clear communication across large, noisy sites. To address these issues, companies provide comprehensive safety training, enforce strict use of personal protective equipment, and utilize advanced communication systems like radios and signaling. Regular safety meetings and team briefings ensure everyone is aware of potential hazards and changes in operational procedures, fostering a culture of safety and collaboration.

What is the highest paid mining job?

In above ground mining, the highest paid roles are often mine managers, senior engineers, and safety directors, with salaries reaching six figures depending on experience and location. These positions require strong leadership skills, technical expertise, and often certifications such as mine safety or engineering licenses. Compensation varies based on company size, project scope, and geographic region.

How much money do underground miners make?

Underground miners typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the mining operation. Skilled miners with certifications and experience in safety protocols can earn higher wages, often supplemented by shift differentials and overtime pay.
More about Above Ground Mining jobs
What job categories do people searching Above Ground Mining jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Above Ground Mining jobs are:
Above Ground Mining jobs near you
Infographic showing various Above Ground Mining job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,935 per year, or $61 per hour.
Geotechnical Engineer

Geotechnical Engineer

Turner Mining Group

Elko, NV • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

The Opportunity
The Geotechnical Engineer is responsible for evaluating soil, rock, effects of
groundwater, and geologic conditions to ensure the safe and efficient design,
construction, and operation of mining projects. This role supports open-pit mines,
underground mines, tailings storage facilities, waste dumps, haul roads, and related
infrastructure by assessing ground stability and geotechnical risks.
Geotechnical Engineers work closely with mine planning, geology, operations,
environmental, and civil engineering teams to optimize mine safety, production, and
long-term stability.
Responsibilities
• Conduct geotechnical investigations including drilling programs, rock and soil
sampling, laboratory testing, and field mapping.
• Analyze rock mass behavior, slope stability, ground support requirements, and
soil mechanics.
• Develop geotechnical models for open-pit and underground mining operations.
• Perform advanced numerical modelling using FLAC3D and industry-leading
constitutive models to support complex geotechnical assessments.
• Support stope sequencing, mine design optimization, and excavation stability
assessments.
• Design and evaluate:
• Stope dimensions and estimates of ore dilution and Equivalent Linear
Overbreak Slough (ELOS)
• Underground ground support systems
• Pit slopes and bench configurations
• Waste rock dumps
• Tailings storage facilities
• Use geotechnical software for modeling and stability analysis including advanced
numerical modelling approaches.
• Support and contribute to Ground Control Management Plans (GCMPs), TARPs,
and geotechnical risk management processes.
• Monitor ground conditions using instrumentation such as prisms, piezometers,
extensometers, and radar systems.
• Interpret and manage geotechnical monitoring data, including prism,
MPBX/extensometer, radar, and other instrumentation outputs.
• Identify geotechnical hazards including slope failures, rockfalls, subsidence, and
seismic risks.
• Develop mitigation plans and emergency response recommendations.
• Perform inspections and prepare stability assessments and technical reports.
• Provide day-to-day geotechnical guidance to mine operations teams.
• Work closely with operations teams to develop practical and implementable
geotechnical solutions.
• Recommend operational changes to improve safety and production efficiency.
• Support drill-and-blast optimization from a geotechnical perspective.
• Participate in mine planning and scheduling meetings.
• Ensure compliance with mining regulations, environmental standards, and
company safety policies.
• Prepare technical documentation, risk assessments, and engineering reports.
• Support permitting and regulatory submissions.
• Coordinate with geologists, mine engineers, surveyors, and environmental
specialists.
• Manage contractors and geotechnical consultants when required.
• Mentor junior engineers and technicians.
• Present findings and recommendations to management and stakeholders.
The above responsibilities are representative and may not include all assigned duties.
Education and Experience
• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering, Geological Engineering, Geotechnical
Engineering or related field.
• Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering or Rock Mechanics preferred.
• 5-8+ years of mining geotechnical experience
• Knowledgeable in rock mechanics and soil mechanics
• Experience with slope stability analysis, ground support design and data
interpretation and technical reporting
• Experience with geotechnical and mine design software such as FLAC3D,
Rocscience Suite (Unwedge and Dips), GeoStudio, Surpac, Vulcan, AutoCAD, and
GIS platforms.
• Experience with advanced numerical modelling software, FLAC3D, will be viewed
favorably; however, training and mentoring will be available for suitable
candidates.

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