1

Coal Prep Plant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Prep Plant Utility

Owensville, IN ยท On-site

$34.52 - $34.88/hr

Qualified applicants must have Coal Preparation Plant experience and have worked in a prep plant during the past 12 months. * Applicants must be safety conscious and have basic knowledge of the ...

Prep Plant Operator

Coulterville, IL ยท On-site

$35.27/hr

Gateway Prep Plant About the role: We are currently seeking a Prep Plant Operator to join our ... Gateway North mine is an underground coal mine located in Coulterville, Illinois, just an hour ...

Prep Plant Operator

Coulterville, IL ยท On-site

$35.27/hr

Gateway Prep Plant About the role: We are currently seeking a Prep Plant Operator to join our ... Gateway North mine is an underground coal mine located in Coulterville, Illinois, just an hour ...

Maintenance Tech - Prep Plant

Waynesburg, PA

$20.50 - $27.50/hr

Working and maintaining all prep plant machinery as necessary * Welding and torching when needed ... We are consistently employing individuals in the Coal, Oil & Gas, Construction, Manufacturing and ...

Maintenance Tech - Prep Plant

Washington, PA ยท On-site

$20.50 - $27.75/hr

Working and maintaining all prep plant machinery as necessary * Welding and torching when needed ... We are consistently employing individuals in the Coal, Oil & Gas, Construction, Manufacturing and ...

Maintenance Tech - Prep Plant

Morgantown, WV ยท On-site

$22.75 - $30.50/hr

Working and maintaining all prep plant machinery as necessary * Welding and torching when needed ... We are consistently employing individuals in the Coal, Oil & Gas, Construction, Manufacturing and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Coal Prep Plant information

See salary details

$9

$15

$20

How much do coal prep plant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for coal prep plant in the United States is $15.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a coal prep plant?

A coal prep plant, also known as a coal preparation plant or coal handling and preparation plant (CHPP), is a facility that washes and processes raw coal to remove impurities like soil, rock, ash, and sulfur. The process improves the quality and value of the coal, making it suitable for use in power generation and other industries. The plant uses various mechanical and chemical techniques, such as crushing, screening, and flotation, to separate usable coal from waste materials. This ensures that the coal meets market specifications and environmental standards before being transported to its final destination.

What are some common challenges faced by employees working in a coal preparation plant, and how can they be addressed?

Employees in a coal preparation plant often encounter challenges such as managing equipment maintenance, ensuring safety compliance, and adapting to shift work schedules. Working in an environment with heavy machinery and dust requires strict adherence to safety protocols to prevent accidents and health issues. Effective communication and teamwork are essential to coordinate with operators, maintenance staff, and supervisors. Ongoing training and a proactive approach to troubleshooting equipment help address operational issues and contribute to a safer, more efficient workplace.

What is the difference between Coal Prep Plant vs Coal Miner?

AspectCoal Prep PlantCoal Miner
Primary RolePrepares raw coal through crushing, washing, and processing to meet quality standardsExtracts coal from underground or surface mines
Work EnvironmentProcessing facilities, often indoors, with heavy machineryMining sites, underground or open-pit environments
CredentialsMay require technical certifications or training in processing equipmentMining certifications, safety training, and sometimes specialized licenses

While both roles are essential in the coal industry, a Coal Prep Plant focuses on processing and preparing coal for shipment, whereas a Coal Miner is involved in extracting coal from the earth. They work in different environments but are interconnected in the coal supply chain.

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

To thrive as a Coal Prep Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of coal processing, equipment operation, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with control systems, conveyor belts, heavy machinery, and sometimes certifications in mining safety (such as MSHA) are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong teamwork are vital soft skills for monitoring plant operations and responding to issues quickly. These competencies ensure efficient plant performance, adherence to safety standards, and minimal downtime in a high-risk industrial environment.
More about Coal Prep Plant jobs
What states have the most Coal Prep Plant jobs? States with the most job openings for Coal Prep Plant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Coal Prep Plant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,628 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Prep Plant Utility

Gibson County Coal LLC

Owensville, IN โ€ข On-site

$34.52 - $34.88/hr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Reports to: Prep Plant Foreman
The essential functions of this position were determined to be but not limited to:
  1. Qualified applicants must have Coal Preparation Plant experience and have worked in a prep plant during the past 12 months.
  2. Applicants must be safety conscious and have basic knowledge of the operation of a preparation plant.
  3. Qualified applicants must be able to perform equipment troubleshooting and complete repairs of pumps, centrifugal dryers, vibrating screens, crushing equipment, conveying equipment, mobile equipment, and any other equipment associated with the prep plant processes.
  4. Applicants with heavy equipment operation skills, such as dozers, loaders, skid steer loaders, and haul trucks are preferred.

Work Schedule:
This person must be willing to work any shift, extended shifts, weekends, and holidays as required.
Position Summary:
Applicants must be able to work well with others in a team environment and have good communication skills. This person should be detail-oriented and self-motivated. Applicants must be 18 years of age and possess a valid driver's license.