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Coal Mine Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Must have at least one year of experience working in an underground coal mine. * Must have a high school diploma or equivalent. * Ability to work safely and effectively in an underground mining ...

BC Inby

Berry, AL · On-site

Must have at least one year of experience working in an underground coal mine. * Must have a high school diploma or equivalent. * Ability to work safely and effectively in an underground mining ...

Utility Person

Madisonville, KY · On-site

$32.05/hr

Must have 1 year of experience working in a underground coal mine, 6 months must be face experience. Reports to: Shift Foreman The essential functions of this position were determined to be: 1. Fill ...

As the Chief Mine Inspector, you will be responsible for being involved in onsite mine inspections ... working and ventilating coal mines, the nature, chemistry, detection, and control of noxious ...

As the Chief Mine Inspector, you will be responsible for being involved in onsite mine inspections ... working and ventilating coal mines, the nature, chemistry, detection, and control of noxious ...

The Mine Examiner plays a critical role in maintaining a safe working environment by conducting ... underground coal mining. Thorough knowledge of Illinois State Mining Laws. Ability to become ...

Utility Person

Madisonville, KY · On-site

$32.05/hr

Must have 1 year of experience working in a underground coal mine, 6 months must be face experience. Reports to: Shift Foreman The essential functions of this position were determined to be: 1. Fill ...

The Mine Examiner plays a critical role in maintaining a safe working environment by conducting ... underground coal mining. • Thorough knowledge of Illinois State Mining Laws. • Ability to ...

The Mine Examiner plays a critical role in maintaining a safe working environment by conducting ... coal mining. · Thorough knowledge of Illinois State Mining Laws. · Ability to become proficient ...

Utility Person

Madisonville, KY · On-site

$32.05/hr

Must have 1 year of experience working in a underground coal mine, 6 months must be face experience. Reports to: Shift Foreman The essential functions of this position were determined to be: 1. Fill ...

Coal Miner

Bessemer, AL · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Coal Miner JENNMAR Services is currently seeking Experienced and Inexperienced Underground Coal ... working at different mine locations; * Ability to utilize different task training and to work on ...

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Coal Mine Worker information

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How much do coal mine worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for coal mine worker in the United States is $21.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a coal mine worker?

Coal mine workers are individuals who work in underground or surface mines to extract coal from the earth. Their duties can include operating heavy machinery, drilling, blasting, transporting coal, and maintaining safety standards. These workers often perform physically demanding tasks in challenging environments, and safety is a top priority due to the risks involved. Coal mine workers play a critical role in the energy sector, as coal is used for electricity generation and various industrial processes.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a coal mine worker?

To thrive as a Coal Mine Worker, you need physical stamina, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often complemented by specialized safety training. Familiarity with mining equipment, ventilation systems, and compliance with MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration) regulations is essential. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to follow strict safety protocols are key soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure safe, efficient mining operations and to minimize risks in hazardous underground environments.

What challenges do coal mine workers face, and how are they addressed?

Coal mine workers often encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, exposure to dust and noise, and maintaining safety in potentially hazardous conditions. To address these challenges, mines implement strict safety protocols, provide comprehensive training on equipment and emergency procedures, and require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Regular safety drills and ongoing health monitoring are also standard to ensure workers' well-being. Teamwork and clear communication are critical in this environment to quickly address any risks that arise.

What is the difference between Coal Mine Worker vs Miner?

AspectCoal Mine WorkerMiner
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certificationsHigh school diploma, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentUnderground or surface coal minesUnderground or surface mines, including various minerals
Industry UsagePrimarily in coal mining industryIn various mining industries, including coal, minerals, metals
Job RoleOperate equipment, assist in extraction of coalExtract minerals, operate mining machinery

Coal Mine Workers and Miners share similar credentials and work environments, often working underground or on the surface in mining operations. However, 'Miner' is a broader term encompassing various mineral extraction industries, while 'Coal Mine Worker' specifically refers to those working in coal mining. Both roles involve operating heavy machinery and adhering to safety protocols, but their industry focus differs.

How do I get a job as a coal mine worker?

To become a coal mine worker, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions may require specialized training or certifications such as mine safety training. Experience in manual labor or operating heavy machinery can be beneficial, and applicants often undergo physical exams and background checks before employment. Applying through mining companies, labor unions, or job boards is common for job opportunities in this field.

How much do coal mine workers get paid?

Coal mine workers typically earn an average annual salary ranging from $50,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and specific job duties. Many workers also receive benefits such as health insurance and overtime pay, especially for shift work in hazardous environments.
More about Coal Mine Worker jobs
Infographic showing various Coal Mine Worker job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,035 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Section Supervisor - Mine

Marissa, IL • On-site

Prairie State Energy Campus
51 - 200 employees

$102K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Summary

The Section Supervisor Underground Operations manages a safe and efficient production of coal on a working section in an underground coal mine.


Essential Duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, any one of the following assigned areas:

  • Direct supervision of employees on a working section related to safety and production.
  • Identify and supervise the elimination of hazardous conditions derived from roof conditions, dust, gas, and those related to material handling, movement of equipment and electrical power distribution.
  • Supervise the installation and maintenance of roof supports, ventilation controls, pumps, section supplies, electrical power distribution centers, conveyor belts, feeders, fire prevention equipment and firefighting apparatus.
  • Supervise the mining of coal according to plans on main entry and room sections using continuous mining equipment and transporting this coal to section loading point while following all laws and/or Company regulations.
  • Direct the section according to mine map projections making sure sights are correct and crosscuts are turned properly.
  • Conduct pre-shift and on-shift examinations including review of examiner’s books, and conditions of equipment, section, roof, and roadways.

Other Duties/Responsibilities

  • Conduct safety meetings with crew.
  • Maintain all safe work procedures.
  • Maintain a professional working atmosphere by following sound employee relations procedures.
  • Provide ongoing training to the crew to ensure that production requirements are met in the safest, most efficient manner.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Will provide authority of knowledge to the Shift Mine Manager and will supervise and motivate employees in the working section.


Qualification Requirements

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential duties in the assigned area in a satisfactory fashion.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and attitudes required for this employment position.  REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS MAY BE MADE TO ENABLE INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES TO PERFORM THE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS.

Education/Experience

  • Bachelor's degree preferred; high school diploma required.
  • Demonstrated leadership ability, specifically in an underground mining environment.
  • Minimum of two (2) years’ Section Supervisor experience or four (4) years’ documented experience in a leadership or lead role.

Certification/Licensure

  • Mine Manager’s Papers (obtain within first testing date after accepting position, if not certified)
  • Mine Examiner’s Papers required.
  • Must have a valid Illinois State Driver’s License.
  • Emergency Medical Training is preferred.

Knowledge of

  • Thorough knowledge of all underground mining practices, equipment and procedures.
  • Thorough knowledge of all state and federal laws and regulations governing the mining of coal.
  • Knowledge and ability to make decisions relative to production, maintenance, law, and safety.

Skills, abilities, and physical requirements

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills and ability to coordinate with all levels of management.
  • Strong organizational skills.
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • Strong sense of closure; complete what you start”.
  • Ability to read and understand mine plans.
  • Ability to read and understand Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
  • Physical Requirements:
  • Stand for 6 to 10 hours on uneven rocky surfaces
  • Walk for up to 8 hours at a time in uneven and wet conditions through sections of the mine with varying degrees of clearance and headroom.
  • Lift up to 70 pounds without mechanical assistance. Work from elevated positions, walk or climb up and down stairways and ladders and climb on and off of equipment and must be able to bend or stoop for a full shift as a result of the mine height.
  • Ability to do overhead work
  • Don and wear required safety equipment including SCSR, respirators, hearing and eye protection, and protective clothing.

Work Environment

The characteristics listed herein describe the work environment the employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this employment position.  REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS MAY BE MADE TO ENABLE INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES TO PERFORM THE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS.  While performing the duties of this employment position, the employee:

  • Will work in damp, dimly lit and confined work areas and will be subjected to extremes of ambient temperature.
  • Will encounter noise levels that will necessitate the wearing of hearing protection.

Compensation and Benefits

At Prairie State, base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as one grows and develops within a role. The base pay range we reasonably expect to pay for this role is between $102,000 per year salary exempt, and $ 120,000 per year salary exempt. Individual pay decisions depend on various factors, such as skills, qualifications, and relevant experience. In addition, this position is eligible to participate in the Company’s monthly incentive program.

Employees are also eligible to receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical, dental and vision coverage, retirement savings plan with Company match, life and disability insurance, and tuition reimbursement. Click here to learn more about Prairie State’s benefits.

Prairie State offers all full-time employees paid time off, accruing 160 hours annually with gradual increases based on length of service, as well as nine paid holidays per year. Paid maternal and paternal leave is also available to employees that meet the eligibility requirements.

Note: Prairie State benefits, compensation, and employee incentive programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.