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Apprentice Mining Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Energy Solutions Technicians Graduates

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

From world-class events that last a few weeks to mining operations and remote communities who rely ... Clear, structured advancement tracks from Apprentice to Master Technician or Project Manager in a ...

Apprentice Mining information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$22

$38

How much do apprentice mining jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice mining in Chicago, IL is $22.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an apprentice mining?

Apprentice Miners are individuals who are training to become skilled miners by working under the supervision of experienced mining professionals. They typically learn about mining operations, safety procedures, equipment handling, and mineral extraction techniques. Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction to provide a comprehensive understanding of the mining industry. This role is essential for gaining the hands-on experience and certifications needed to advance to higher positions within the mining sector.

What does an apprentice mining do?

As an Apprentice Miner, your typical day involves shadowing experienced miners, assisting with equipment operation, and learning safety protocols both above and below ground. You’ll participate in hands-on tasks such as drilling, blasting, and ore transportation under supervision. On-the-job training is structured, often combining classroom instruction with practical, site-based experience, ensuring you build foundational technical skills while adapting to the demanding physical environment. Collaboration with team members and following strict safety guidelines are crucial aspects of your daily routine.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apprentice mining?

To thrive as an Apprentice Mining, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, physical stamina, and a willingness to learn about mining operations and safety protocols. Familiarity with basic mining equipment, safety certifications such as MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration), and the ability to follow operational procedures are often required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safety, operational efficiency, and successful integration into mining teams.

What is the difference between Apprentice Mining vs Mining Technician?

AspectApprentice MiningMining Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, safety certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent, technical training or certifications
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supervised mining sites, hands-on trainingOperational sites, equipment monitoring, maintenance tasks
Employer & Industry UsageMining companies, construction firmsMining companies, resource extraction industries

Apprentice Mining roles are entry-level positions focused on learning and gaining hands-on experience under supervision. Mining Technicians typically have more technical training and perform operational and maintenance tasks independently. Both roles are essential in the mining industry, but apprentices are in training, while technicians are more experienced workers.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mining jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Mining jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Apprentice Mining job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,187 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Shift Manager Maintenance

East Chicago, IN • On-site

$70 - $100/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Location: East Chicago, INCleveland-Cliffs Steel has multiple opening to join our team as a Shift Manager Maintenance at our East Chicago, Indiana location. As a Shift Manager, you will lead a skilled union maintenance workforce responsible for maintaining critical production equipment in one of our leading steel manufacturing operations. You'll play a key role in driving equipment reliability, minimizing downtime, improving maintenance processes, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives that directly impact plant performance.Summary of ResponsibilitiesLead and supervise union maintenance craft employees engaged in preventive, predictive, corrective, and emergency maintenance activities.Promote and enforce a strong safety culture through daily safety communications, hazard identification, safety observations, and regulatory compliance.Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical equipment failures during scheduled outages, breakdowns, and emergency situations.Partner closely with Operations, Engineering, Reliability, and Maintenance teams to execute maintenance strategies and continuous improvement initiatives.Review and interpret work orders, equipment history, technical drawings, blueprints, production schedules, and maintenance reports.Manage workforce performance, employee development, training, coaching, and accountability efforts.Address employee concerns, grievances, and disciplinary matters in accordance with labor agreements and company policies.Other duties as assigned.Minimum QualificationsHigh school diploma/GED and equivalent experience1+ years of experience supervisory leading maintenance activities in a manufacturing, industrial, mining, energy, or heavy equipment environment.Knowledge of mechanical systems, including drives, hydraulics, pumps, gearboxes, bearings, and crane systems.Working knowledge of industrial electrical systems and controls.Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, technical drawings, and maintenance documentation.Strong troubleshooting and decision-making skills in a production environment.Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, and Outlook.Strong communication, leadership, and team-building skills.Ability to work rotating shifts, weekends, holidays, and respond to emergency maintenance situations as needed.Applicants for this position must be currently legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.Preferred QualificationsThree (3) years of experience as a front –line maintenance supervisor in a heavy industrial environment.Steel industry experience.Associate's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering Technology, Industrial Technology, Engineering or related technical field.Equivalent combination of education, military experience, skilled trades training, apprenticeship completion, or relevant maintenance leadership experience will be considered.Experience working in a unionized manufacturing environment.Knowledge of predictive maintenance, reliability practices, and continuous improvement methodologies.Relocation assistance may be considered for highly qualified candidates from outside the local area.Cleveland-Cliffs is a leading North America-based steel producer with focus on value-added sheet products, particularly for the automotive industry. The Company is vertically integrated from the mining of iron ore, production of pellets and direct reduced iron, and processing of ferrous scrap through primary steelmaking and downstream finishing, stamping, tooling, and tubing. We offer an excellent total compensation package, including competitive pay with variable compensation opportunity, health insurance, retirement plan, education assistance, paid time off, and more.Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to careers@clevelandcliffs.com or call 1-(312) 899-3097 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Do not email your application materials to this email address. Application materials sent to this email address will not be considered.Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. is an equal opportunity employer – M/F/Veteran/Disability. We are a drug-free workplace and conduct pre-employment screening as a condition of employment. #J-18808-Ljbffr