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Coal Mining Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Safety, Sustainability and Continuous Improvement. • Operating heavy earth-moving and support equipment in open pit coal mining operation, equipment includes: 240 and 320+ ton haul trucks, 24H ...

Mining Equipment Operator

Eureka, NV · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

Equipment Operator Reports to: Foreman - Turner Mining Group The Equipment Operator is a skilled mining operator position within Turner Mining Group. The successful candidate must live the Turner ...

Mining Equipment Operator

Eureka, NV · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

Equipment Operator Reports to: Foreman Turner Mining Group The Equipment Operator is a skilled mining operator position within Turner Mining Group. The successful candidate must live the Turner ...

Mining Equipment Operator

Eureka, NV · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

Equipment Operator Reports to: Foreman - Turner Mining Group The Equipment Operator is a skilled mining operator position within Turner Mining Group. The successful candidate must live the Turner ...

... Coal WV, LLC is seeking experienced West Virginia Black Hat Miners to join our team at the Mountain ... mining conditions * Strong safety record, attendance, and teamwork skills Continuous Miner Operator ...

... Coal WV, LLC is seeking experienced West Virginia Black Hat Miners to join our team at the Mountain ... mining conditions * Strong safety record, attendance, and teamwork skills Continuous Miner Operator ...

Open Cut Operator

Wright, WY · On-site

$18.25 - $22.25/hr

... coal mine employees using simulation technologies, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR ... Experience operating heavy mining equipment. Strong communication, presentation, and coaching ...

Open Cut Operator

Wright, WY · On-site

$18.25 - $22.25/hr

... coal mining experience. • Knowledge of MSHA regulations and mining safety standards. • Experience operating heavy mining equipment. • Strong communication, presentation, and coaching skills ...

Coal Miner

Marissa, IL · On-site

$22 - $35/hr

These are full-time coal mining positions with competitive salary and benefits available. Walk in ... Scoop operating * Bolting * Other laborer duties as required Job Requirements for Experienced and ...

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Coal Mining Equipment Operator information

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How much do coal mining equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for coal mining equipment operator in the United States is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a coal mining equipment operator?

A coal mining equipment operator is a worker responsible for operating heavy machinery used in coal extraction, such as continuous miners, shuttle cars, and conveyor belts. They must understand safety protocols, often hold relevant certifications, and work in underground or surface mining environments. Their role is essential for efficient and safe coal production.

What does a coal mining equipment operator do?

A Coal Mining Equipment Operator is responsible for operating machinery used in the extraction and transportation of coal from mines. Their duties include driving and controlling equipment such as continuous miners, longwall machines, loaders, and shuttle cars. They also ensure the machinery runs safely and efficiently, perform routine maintenance, and comply with safety regulations. Operators often work underground or in surface mines and must be attentive to changing conditions to prevent accidents.

What is the difference between Coal Mining Equipment Operator vs Mine Technician?

AspectCoal Mining Equipment OperatorMine Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, equipment operation certificationsTechnical diploma or associate degree in mining technology
Work EnvironmentUnderground or surface mining sites operating heavy machineryMining sites, focusing on equipment maintenance and troubleshooting
Employer & Industry UsageMining companies, equipment rental firmsMining companies, equipment manufacturers, service providers

While both roles work within the mining industry, Coal Mining Equipment Operators primarily operate heavy machinery in mining environments, whereas Mine Technicians focus on maintaining and repairing equipment to ensure safety and efficiency. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right role aligned with their skills and certifications.

What are some common challenges faced by coal mining equipment operators on the job?

Coal Mining Equipment Operators often face challenges such as working in confined spaces, managing heavy and complex machinery, and adhering to strict safety protocols to minimize risks. The role requires constant attention to detail and communication with team members to ensure smooth operations and prevent accidents. Additionally, operators must adapt to varying work conditions, such as shifts, underground environments, and potential exposure to dust and noise, making resilience and teamwork essential qualities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a coal mining equipment operator?

To thrive as a Coal Mining Equipment Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or GED, often supplemented by on-the-job training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with heavy machinery such as continuous miners, shuttle cars, and loaders, as well as safety systems and protocols, is essential. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help operators work safely and efficiently in hazardous environments. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure safe operation, minimize accidents, and maintain productivity in demanding mining conditions.
More about Coal Mining Equipment Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Coal Mining Equipment Operator jobs? Cities with the most Coal Mining Equipment Operator job openings:
What states have the most Coal Mining Equipment Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Coal Mining Equipment Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Coal Mining Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Black Thunder Mine - Equipment Operator 1

Core Natural Resources, Inc.

Wright, WY • On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Core Natural Resources rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 41 rated mining


Job description

Equipment Operator
Thunder Basin Coal Company, LLC
JOB LOCATION: Black Thunder Mine, Wright, WY
FLSA CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt
NUMBER OF OPENINGS: 10
RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:
• Must meet our 3 core values; Safety, Sustainability and Continuous Improvement.
• Operating heavy earth-moving and support equipment in open pit coal mining operation, equipment includes: 240 and 320+ ton haul trucks, 24H blades and water trucks.
• Fuel, lube, and perform routine maintenance checks on a variety of mining equipment.
• Assist with moving power cables for shovels, draglines and general pit lighting.
• Water control - setting pumps, installing and moving water lines to remove water from mining areas.
• Clean equipment as necessary.
• All other duties as assigned.
MINIMUM REQUIRED SKILLS, EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.
• Must have a work ethic that allows him/her to demonstrate his/her ability daily with minimal supervision.
• Must have excellent interpersonal/communication skills and an ability to work with others in a team environment.
• Must be willing to work in adverse conditions including, but not limited to, extreme heat, cold, dust, rain, snow and wind, as well as frequent contact with grease and dirt.
• Must demonstrate consistent and reliable attendance.
• Must be able to work rotating shifts.
PREFERRED EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
• High school diploma or equivalent experience strongly preferred.
• Valid Driver's License preferred.
Qualified external candidates interested in this position should apply at corenaturalresources.com by August 17, 2026.
We thank all candidates for their interest but advise that only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

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