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Coal Handler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator Jr. - Equipment Operator

New Haven, WV · On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

... Coal Handler (depending on the line-of-progression) or vacate the Equipment Operator-Junior classification. This includes the ability to gain a working knowledge of all applicable operating ...

$16.50 - $20/hr

Perform pre-shift inspections on all fixed equipment from barge loading to the top of the coal ... Mobile equipment including but not limited to rail car mover, excavator material handler, skid ...

Material Handler

Sainte Genevieve, MO · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Perform pre-shift inspections on all fixed equipment from barge loading to the top of the coal ... Mobile equipment including but not limited to rail car mover, excavator material handler, skid ...

$16.50 - $20/hr

Perform pre-shift inspections on all fixed equipment from barge loading to the top of the coal ... Mobile equipment including but not limited to rail car mover, excavator material handler, skid ...

$16.25 - $22/hr

... Coal Handler (depending on the line-of-progression) or vacate the Equipment Operator-Junior classification. This includes the ability to gain a working knowledge of all applicable operating ...

Material Handler - 1st Shift

Ashland City, TN · On-site

$17 - $20.50/hr

Material Handler - 1st Shift NABRICO Marine Products, is searching for a safety-oriented Material ... grain, coal, and aggregates. NABRICO Marine Products also manufactures tank barges that carry ...

Material Handler Senior

Ashland City, TN · On-site

$17 - $20.50/hr

Material Handler Senior Arcosa Marine Products, Inc., is searching for a safety-oriented Material ... grain, coal, and aggregates. Arcosa Marine Products also manufactures tank barges that carry ...

Material Handler - 1st Shift

Ashland City, TN · On-site

$17 - $20.50/hr

NABRICO Marine Products, is searching for a safety-oriented Material Handler in our Ashland City ... grain, coal, and aggregates. NABRICO Marine Products also manufactures tank barges that carry ...

Material Handler Senior

Caruthersville, MO · On-site

$12.75 - $15.50/hr

NABRICO Marine Products, is searching for a safety-oriented Material Handler in our Caruthersville ... grain, coal, and aggregates. NABRICO Marine Products also manufactures tank barges that carry ...

... coal, ores, alloys, steel products, chemicals, and more. We're committed to being the best at what ... Operating a material handler to load and unload cargo efficiently and safely * Assisting in the ...

... coal, ores, alloys, steel products, chemicals, and more. We're committed to being the best at what ... Operating a material handler to load and unload cargo efficiently and safely * Assisting in the ...

Cook/Kitchen

Austin, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

... in Austin's original coal-fired ovens. Back of House Team Members will support the kitchen ... Food Handlers Certification

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Coal Handler information

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$9

$17

$24

How much do coal handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for coal handler in the United States is $17.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Coal Handler vs Conveyor Belt Operator?

AspectCoal HandlerConveyor Belt Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operation licensesOSHA safety training, equipment operation licenses
Work EnvironmentMining sites, power plants, coal yardsMining sites, manufacturing plants, power plants
Job ResponsibilitiesHandling, loading, and unloading coal; operating heavy machineryMonitoring conveyor systems; ensuring smooth operation; troubleshooting
Industry UsageCommon in coal mining and processing facilitiesCommon in mining, manufacturing, and power generation

Both roles require safety certifications and involve working in industrial environments related to coal processing. While the Coal Handler focuses on managing coal materials and operating heavy equipment, the Conveyor Belt Operator specializes in maintaining and troubleshooting conveyor systems that transport coal. These roles often overlap in coal mining and power plant settings, but their specific duties differ based on equipment and focus area.

What does a coal handler do?

A coal handler is responsible for the safe movement, storage, and management of coal at facilities such as power plants or industrial sites. Their duties include operating equipment to transport coal, monitoring coal levels, performing routine maintenance on machinery, and ensuring environmental and safety standards are met. Coal handlers play a crucial role in maintaining the steady supply of fuel necessary for energy production.

What are some common challenges Coal Handlers face on the job, and how can they be managed?

Coal Handlers often work in environments with dust, noise, and fluctuating weather conditions, which can present challenges to safety and comfort. Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), adherence to safety protocols, and regular equipment maintenance are essential for minimizing risks. Additionally, Coal Handlers must be vigilant about following procedures for handling and transporting coal to prevent spills and minimize environmental impact. Effective communication with team members and supervisors helps ensure operations run smoothly and safely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Coal Handler, and why are they important?

To excel as a Coal Handler, you need a solid understanding of material handling, basic mechanical skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with conveyor systems, heavy equipment operation, and safety certifications such as OSHA are typically required. Strong attention to detail, communication, and reliability are valuable soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure safe and efficient coal movement, minimize workplace hazards, and contribute to smooth plant operations.
More about Coal Handler jobs
What states have the most Coal Handler jobs? States with the most job openings for Coal Handler jobs include:
Infographic showing various Coal Handler job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,374 per year, or $18 per hour.
Equipment Operator Jr. - Equipment Operator

Equipment Operator Jr. - Equipment Operator

American Electric Power

New Haven, WV • On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


American Electric Power rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 98 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 50 rated energy and utility


Job description

Job Posting End Date
06-09-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date
Job Summary
Perform semi-skilled manual work, maintenance and operating duties in connection with power plant operation, as assigned. Job duties may vary, depending on the line-of-progression (Operations, Maintenance or Coal Yard).
Job Description
Equipment Operator Jr. - Equipment Operator:
What You'll Do:
  • Isolate, clean, open, replace, inspect, close and return to service strainers, heat exchangers and dust collectors.
  • Operate, clean, service and lubricate portable power-driven tools and equipment.
  • Maintain tools, equipment and work areas in a clean and orderly condition.
  • Utilize portable meters, analyzers and equipment to conduct tests and monitoring.
  • Lubricate and check lubrication equipment; adjust packing glands as necessary and perform necessary operative maintenance, using appropriate hand tools.
  • Operate oil filtering equipment.
  • Operate, regulate, adjust, clean and perform minor maintenance on bottom ash and flash handling equipment, including associated pumps, piping and valves.
  • Monitor and inspect all plant equipment for normal operation.
  • Identify and report abnormal conditions to the proper authority and write work orders.
  • Perform simple disassembly and assembly work, clean and recondition parts, lubricate, bolt, unbolt, wire brush and open and close inspection doors.
  • Prepare equipment work surfaces and areas by removing insulation guards and simple housings; remove pipe covering and insulation and prepare such surfaces for recovering.
  • Erect and remove simple scaffolding and rigging.
  • Perform minor maintenance work on heating and plumbing systems such as repair valves, repair and replace fittings and short sections of piping; clean and replace traps.
  • Load, unload, move and handle materials, supplies and equipment, open boxes, barrels, bags and other materials.
  • Operate material handling equipment including hoists, fork-lift trucks, skid steer loaders, small tractors and automotive equipment and their associated equipment and perform duties incidental to the operation of such equipment.
  • Perform routine cleaning of plant areas and equipment, including outside areas, as assigned.
  • Clean oil igniters and nozzles.
  • Assist in preparing boilers and auxiliaries for operation and removal from service.
  • Monitor coal feed to mills and burners and observe conditions of fires and furnaces.
  • Hand lance slag in boilers, hand- operating soot blowers, unplugging ash lines, disposing of clinkers and other similar work.
  • Use flow diagrams to identify system piping and equipment and revise these prints as required.
  • Make required equipment checks and assist in performing tests and preparing related reports, graphs and curves.
  • Perform duties in accordance with Company's safety rules, operating regulations and practices and report unsafe conditions and practices.
  • Train for and carry out assignments in firefighting, first aid and other emergency response programs as required.
  • Perform similar or less skilled work as assigned.

Equipment Operator - Jr:
Education/Experience requirements are listed below:
  • Associate degree in engineering, industrial or energy technology;
  • OR Associate degree in another discipline and two (2) years of related work experience;
  • OR high school diploma with four (4) years of related work experience
  • OR high school diploma with two (2) years of related military experience. Related experience is listed under Principal Accountabilities.

Required License(s)/Certification(s) are listed below:
  • Possess a valid State driver's license.

Other Requirements:
  • Able to stand or walk continuously for up to 12 hours.
  • Successful completion of the Plant Operator Selection System (POSS) and the Plant Maintenance Selection System (MASS) tests are required for this position. A review of Employment Testing Information, Test-Taking Tips, together with the POSS and MASS Practice Tests may be helpful. A link to these materials may be found at AEP.com Careers by selecting Employment testing.
  • A physical abilities assessment is also required for this position.
  • Must satisfactorily complete and exhibit competency, in such time frames as may be established by the Company, all required training to advance to the Equipment Operator, Maintenance Mechanic-Junior, Coal Handler (depending on the line-of-progression) or vacate the Equipment Operator-Junior classification. This includes the ability to gain a working knowledge of all applicable operating instructions and procedures.
  • Must be able to learn the rules, safety practices and procedures applicable to the work.
  • Must be able to learn the tools and equipment and their use as required in the work.
  • Must be able to read, interpret and work from simple prints and specifications and have the ability to gain a working knowledge of OSHA and Environmental guidelines.
  • Able to work rotating shifts.

Equipment Operator:
Education:
  • Associate in Applied Sciences Degree (Associate degree in engineering, industrial or energy technology preferred);
  • OR high school diploma with four (4) years of related work experience;
  • OR high school diploma with two (2) years of related military experience. Related experience is listed under Principal Accountabilities.

Experience:
  • See details listed under "Education".
  • Must satisfactorily complete and exhibit competency, in such time frames as may be established by the Company, all required training to advance to the Equipment Operator in the Operations Line of Progression.
  • Must satisfactorily complete and exhibit the ability to gain a working knowledge of all applicable operating instructions and procedures.
  • Must be able to learn the rules, safety practices and procedures applicable to the work.
  • Must be able to learn the tools and equipment and their use as required in the work.
  • Must be able to read, interpret and work from simple prints and specifications and have the ability to gain a working knowledge of OSHA and Environmental guidelines.
  • Must be able to work rotating shifts.
  • Must hold a valid driver's license.

Other Requirements:
  • Climb ladders & stairs a number of times each day.
  • Use fine dexterity to move switches & controls to precise locations
  • Detect color on alarms, equipment & other devices
  • Hear announcements on the Plant PA system, and to hear abnormal sounds of plant equipment
  • Communicate plant information by phone, in person or by radio
  • Work on heights, grating, platforms and catwalks.
  • Exert up to 50 lbs of pressure to manually turn off valves.
  • Able to stand or walk continuously for up to 12 hours.

What You'll Get:
Equipment Operator - Jr.: $25.76 - $31.41
Equipment Operator - $38.12 - $47.14
In addition to a competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.
At AEP, we're more than just an energy company - we're a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!
#APCO
Compensation Data
Compensation Grade:
N005-575
Compensation Range:
$25.76 - $42.63
The Physical Demand Level for this job is: M - Medium Work: Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Light Work.
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It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.

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About American Electric Power

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

AEP Energy is a certified competitive retail electricity and natural gas supply provider. We proudly serve residential, small business and commercial and industrial customers. AEP Energy has over 100 years of industry experience with backing from our parent company, American Electric Power (AEP). AEP is one of the largest electric energy companies in the United States and ranked 204 of the Fortune 500.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbus, OH, US

Year founded

1906

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