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Coal Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Coal Miner

Coulterville, IL · On-site

$22 - $28/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 ...

Coal Miner

Bessemer, AL · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Coal Miner JENNMAR Services is currently seeking Experienced and Inexperienced Underground Coal ... Scoop operating * Bolting * Other laborer duties as required Job Requirements for Miners:

Coal Miner

Francisco, IN · On-site

$23.50 - $25.50/hr

... Coal Miners in Francisco IN! These are full-time positions with competitive salary and benefits ... operating Bolting Other laborer duties as required Job Requirements of Experienced and ...

Inexp Coal Miner

Marion, IL · On-site

$20 - $22/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 ...

Inexp Coal Miner

Macedonia, IL · On-site

$20 - $22/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 ...

Inexp Coal Miner

Hillsboro, IL · On-site

$20 - $22/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 ...

Inexp Coal Miner

Dahlgren, IL · On-site

$20 - $22/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 Operator information

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$12

$20

$29

How much do coal operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for coal operator in the United States is $20.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How long are coal miner shifts?

Coal miners typically work shifts that last 8 to 12 hours, often including night shifts and overtime depending on the mine's schedule and production needs. Shifts can vary by company and location, with some miners working rotating schedules or extended hours during busy periods.

Is it hard to become a coal miner?

Becoming a coal miner typically requires completing safety training, obtaining relevant certifications, and gaining physical stamina for demanding work conditions. Entry often involves on-the-job training, and the job can be physically challenging and hazardous, requiring adherence to strict safety protocols.

What does a Coal Operator do?

A Coal Operator is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of a coal mine or facility. Their duties often include overseeing coal extraction, ensuring safety protocols are followed, coordinating with equipment operators, and monitoring production levels. They may also be involved in supervising staff, maintaining equipment, and complying with environmental regulations. Coal Operators play a key role in ensuring the efficient and safe production of coal while minimizing environmental impact.

What are some common challenges faced by coal operators, and how are they typically addressed in the workplace?

Coal operators often encounter challenges such as managing equipment malfunctions, working in confined or hazardous environments, and maintaining safety standards under pressure. To address these, most companies provide rigorous safety training, implement regular equipment maintenance schedules, and encourage strong communication among team members. Additionally, operators are often supported by supervisors and safety officers to ensure compliance with regulations and to quickly resolve any technical or operational issues that arise.

What is the difference between Coal Operator vs Mine Technician?

AspectCoal OperatorMine Technician
CertificationsHigh School diploma; safety training; possibly certifications in mining safetyTechnical certifications; safety training; possibly associate degree in mining technology
Work EnvironmentSurface or underground coal mines; operating heavy machineryUnderground or surface mines; equipment maintenance and monitoring
Job ResponsibilitiesOperate mining equipment, oversee mining operations, ensure safety protocolsInspect equipment, troubleshoot technical issues, assist in maintenance

While both roles are essential in coal mining, a Coal Operator primarily manages and oversees mining operations, focusing on equipment operation and safety. In contrast, a Mine Technician supports technical aspects, including equipment maintenance and troubleshooting. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path in the mining industry.

How much do coal workers get paid?

Coal operators and workers typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specific roles. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced workers or those in supervisory roles can earn higher wages, often supplemented by overtime and benefits.

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

To thrive as a Coal Operator, you need a solid understanding of mining operations, machinery operation, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant on-the-job training. Familiarity with heavy equipment such as continuous miners, conveyors, and monitoring systems is typically required, and some positions may prefer certifications in mine safety or equipment operation. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills are important soft skills for coordinating with crews and maintaining a safe work environment. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure efficient coal extraction while prioritizing safety and minimizing operational risks.

How to get into mining with no experience?

Coal operators often start with no experience by applying for entry-level positions such as laborer or helper, which require physical fitness and a willingness to learn. Gaining relevant certifications like OSHA safety training and demonstrating reliability can improve chances; on-the-job training is common in the industry.
More about Coal Operator jobs
What states have the most Coal Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Coal Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Coal Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,306 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Coal Miner

JENNMAR Services

Marissa, IL • On-site

$22 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

JENNMAR Services is currently seeking Inexperienced and Experienced Underground Coal Miners in the Marissa, IL area!. These are full-time coal mining positions with competitive salary and benefits available.


Walk in Applications Welcome - 11670 N Thompsonville Road Macedonia IL 62860

We start Careers in Illinois!

No Certification? Not a problem! We are currently preparing for our next FREE 40-hour MSHA Class!

Call to arrange an interview! 618-889-5474

PAY RATES

$22.00 (Inexperienced) to $35.00 (Experienced)

Benefits:

  • Health, Dental, Vision - Following 60 days
  • Paid Time Off - Following 90 days
  • 401(k) - Day 1

Job Responsibilities for Experienced (Black Hat) and Inexperienced (Green Hat) Miners:

  • General labor
  • Roller and screen changes
  • Belt work
  • Steel sets
  • Overcasts
  • Jacks
  • Seal preparation
  • Pumpable cribs
  • Scoop operating
  • Bolting
  • Other laborer duties as required

Job Requirements for Experienced and Inexperienced Miners:

  • 2 forms of ID
  • Ability to work any shifts, including weekends and holidays required.
  • Must have the physical ability to work 8 to 12-hour shifts
  • Ability to pass pre-employment screenings (background check, drug screen, physical exam)

JENNMAR Services, our employees, are our most important assets and are committed to them with competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits plan, including 401(k). We are consistently employing individuals in the Coal, Oil & Gas, Construction, Manufacturing and Industrial industries.

EOE

#IND1


JENNMAR Services logo

About JENNMAR Services

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Whether you’re seeking a job or seeking an employee, when many people think of a staffing agency, they think of a middleman whose only concern is to fill slots with warm bodies for someone else. Quantity over quality. Sadly, that is how some agencies work. At JENNMAR Services, the men and women we hire work for us, first and foremost. JENNMAR Services employees earn competitive pay and benefits, including a 401K plan. We scrutinize, test, and train everyone we hire as if they were to be our permanent employees... because they are. While the vast majority of the positions we offer lead to full-time, permanent positions with other companies, the people we hire work for us until they are prepared to move on, all the while gaining skills and confidence or simply demonstrating their value to a company eager to hire them.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Canonsburg, PA, US

Year founded

2018

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