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Coal Surface Mining Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Friday, February 20, 2026 Position Summary Provide direction and supervision to hourly employees responsible for surface mining activities, including but not limited to surface coal handling and ...

Open Cut Operator

Wright, WY · On-site

$18.25 - $22.25/hr

Qualifications Required High school diploma or GED. 3-5 years of surface coal mining experience. Knowledge of MSHA regulations and mining safety standards. Experience operating heavy mining equipment.

Geologist (Coal)

Lakewood, CO · On-site +1

$99K - $154K/yr

The incumbent will use expertise and knowledge of coal mining methods to establish reasonable ... Field work may include walking over wet, sandy, uneven, or rocky surfaces. Field work may also ...

New

Strong background in underground and/or surface mining operations * Proven experience with crushing ... contract mining of coal, minerals, or metals, all the way to mine reclamation. Our service ...

Open Cut Operator

Wright, WY · On-site

$18.25 - $22.25/hr

Qualifications Required • High school diploma or GED. • 3-5 years of surface coal mining experience. • Knowledge of MSHA regulations and mining safety standards. • Experience operating heavy ...

Showing results 21-40

Coal Surface Mining information

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$33K

$89.2K

$142K

How much do coal surface mining jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for coal surface mining in the United States is $89,183.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,500.00 and $109,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are typical work hours and conditions like in coal surface mining?

Coal surface mining roles often require employees to work in rotating shifts, which may include nights, weekends, and holidays depending on production schedules. Work is performed outdoors in varying weather conditions and can involve physically demanding tasks such as operating heavy machinery, walking on uneven ground, and handling large equipment. Teams are usually close-knit and communicate constantly to maintain safety and meet daily targets. Candidates should be prepared for a fast-paced, safety-focused environment and equipped with proper personal protective equipment (PPE) provided by the employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in coal surface mining?

To thrive in Coal Surface Mining, you need a solid understanding of heavy equipment operation, mining safety protocols, and basic geology, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with specialized mining machinery, safety certification programs like MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration), and GPS or mapping systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this profession. These abilities help ensure efficient resource extraction, workplace safety, and successful collaboration within mining crews.

What is a coal surface mining job?

A Coal Surface Mining job involves extracting coal from the earth using surface mining techniques such as strip mining, open-pit mining, or mountaintop removal. Workers operate heavy equipment like bulldozers, excavators, and haul trucks to remove overburden and access coal seams. Responsibilities may include drilling, blasting, transporting coal, and ensuring safety compliance. These jobs often require physical labor, adherence to environmental regulations, and working in varying weather conditions.

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Infographic showing various Coal Surface Mining job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,183 per year, or $42.9 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator -Beckley WV

Cook's Excavating LLC

Beckley, WV • On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Heavy Equipment Operator
  • Candidates must have 5 years' operating experience and be confident in operating abilities.
  • All modern machinery.
  • Highly competitive pay and great benefits.
  • Must be experienced in surface coal mine work.
  • Drug testing and background check required.

Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Retirement Plan

Schedule:
  • 10 hour shift

Education:
  • High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Experience:
  • operating: 5 years (Preferred)

License/Certification:
  • Driver's License
  • 40hr. Surface Mining Card

Work Location: Beckley WV