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Entry Level Open Pit Mine Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Open Pit Driller

Sahuarita, AZ · On-site

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

Minimum 1+ year of open-pit surface drilling experience (rotary, DTH, or top hammer) * Strong ... mine, from facility construction, to full-scale contract mining of coal, minerals, or metals, all ...

Open Pit Driller

Mesa, AZ

$22.75 - $31/hr

Minimum 1+ year of open-pit surface drilling experience (rotary, DTH, or top hammer) * Strong ... mine, from facility construction, to full-scale contract mining of coal, minerals, or metals, all ...

Open Pit Driller

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Minimum 1+ year of open-pit surface drilling experience (rotary, DTH, or top hammer) * Strong ... mine, from facility construction, to full-scale contract mining of coal, minerals, or metals, all ...

$95K - $104K/yr

Open Pit Drill & Blast Engineer Key Tasks and Responsibilities ... Collaborate with the engineering, geology, and mine operations team to develop drill and blast ...

... within an open-pit copper mine that processes sulfide ore. This role translates mid-range planning objectives into detailed, executable designs that guide daily production activities. Reporting ...

Round Mountain is an open-pit mine located in Nevada, one of the best mining jurisdictions in the world. The mine uses conventional open-pit mining methods and processes ore by mill and heap leach.

Experience in an open-pit mine (operationally or in an Engineering capacity) is regarded as a significant asset. Working exposure to industrial environments would also be an asset * Proficient in MS ...

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Entry Level Open Pit Mine information

See salary details

$33K

$89.2K

$142K

How much do entry level open pit mine jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level open pit mine 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 is the difference between Entry Level Open Pit Mine vs Entry Level Underground Miner?

AspectEntry Level Open Pit MineEntry Level Underground Miner
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; safety certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; safety certifications
Work EnvironmentOpen outdoor sites, exposed to weatherUnderground tunnels, confined spaces
Industry UsageCommon in surface mining operationsCommon in underground mining operations
Job FocusOperating large machinery on surfaceOperating equipment underground

Both roles require safety certifications and similar credentials, but the main difference lies in the work environment and mining type. Entry Level Open Pit Miners work outdoors on surface sites, while Entry Level Underground Miners operate in underground tunnels. Understanding these differences helps job seekers choose the right entry point in the mining industry.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level workers in open pit mining, and how can they prepare for them?

Entry-level workers in open pit mining often encounter challenges such as adapting to physically demanding work, learning to operate heavy machinery safely, and adhering to strict safety protocols. The work environment can be fast-paced and may involve exposure to varying weather conditions, noise, and dust. To prepare, candidates should focus on building physical stamina, familiarize themselves with safety regulations, and seek opportunities for hands-on training or certifications related to mining equipment. Emphasizing teamwork and effective communication is also crucial, as collaboration with more experienced miners is a key part of the role.

What is an entry level open pit mine job?

An entry level open pit mine job typically refers to positions where individuals work at surface mining sites, assisting in the extraction of minerals or ores. These roles may include tasks such as operating basic equipment, hauling materials, and supporting more experienced miners with site safety and maintenance. Entry level positions are designed for those with little to no mining experience, offering on-the-job training and opportunities to learn about mining operations, safety protocols, and equipment handling. These jobs often require physical fitness, a willingness to work outdoors in various conditions, and adherence to strict safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Open Pit Mine Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Open Pit Mine Worker, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic mechanical aptitude, and a strong commitment to safety procedures. Familiarity with heavy equipment operation, site-specific safety certifications (such as MSHA), and the use of communication radios are typically expected. Physical stamina, teamwork, and a willingness to learn are vital soft skills in this role. These capabilities ensure operational efficiency, workplace safety, and effective collaboration in demanding mining environments.
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Open Pit Mine jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Open Pit Mine job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Open Pit Mine jobs? The most popular types of Open Pit Mine jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Open Pit Mine jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Open Pit Mine jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Open Pit Mine jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Open Pit Mine jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Open Pit Mine job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $89,183 per year, or $42.9 per hour.

$21.25 - $28.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

You are an experienced Platform or Pioneer Driller who takes pride in running high-production drills safely, accurately, and efficiently in a large open-pit mining environment. You've worked with modern equipment, understand the pace and demands of production drilling, and consistently deliver results without compromising safety.
Based in Arizona's active mining sector, this role offers the opportunity to work on major, long-life projects where your skills are valued and your career can grow. You're a self-starter who thrives in a rugged, outdoor environment and is ready to be part of a team that sets the standard for performance and safety.
Ledcor offers top-tier benefits, reliable schedules, and real advancement opportunities-join a company where experienced drillers build long-term careers.

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Operate CAT 6200 and Sandvik Leopard DI650i drills safely and efficiently in a high-production open pit
  • Execute drill plans using GPS-guided systems and modern controls to ensure accuracy and productivity
  • Follow all MSHA, company, and site-specific safety standards while working in dynamic conditions
  • Perform basic troubleshooting and minor maintenance to minimize downtime and maintain performance

Qualifications:

  • Minimum 1+ year of open-pit surface drilling experience (rotary, DTH, or top hammer)
  • Strong understanding of drill patterns, ground conditions, and production drilling practices
  • MSHA Part 48 (Metal/Nonmetal) certification required (support provided if needed)
  • Proven commitment to safety, reliability, and working in Arizona desert conditions

Work Conditions:

  • 5 days on / 4 days off rotation - built for work-life balance
  • 12-hour shifts (day/night rotation depending on production needs)
  • Overtime paid at time-and-a-half after 40 hours
  • Competitive Living Out Allowance (LOA) for eligible employees
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and wellness benefits
  • Work conducted primarily outdoors in Arizona desert conditions (heat, dust, variable terrain)
  • Long-term, stable opportunity supporting major U.S. mining operations

Additional Information

Ledcor Heavy Civil and Mining services reach across the lifespan of a mine, from facility construction, to full-scale contract mining of coal, minerals, or metals, all the way to mine reclamation. Our service offerings are vast-as are the projects we work on.

Ledcor has been recognized as a Top 100 Inspiring Workplace in North America.

Our competitive total rewards package provides compensation and benefits that support your physical, mental and financial well-being. We offer exciting, challenging work with opportunities to develop your skills and knowledge.

Employment Equity

At Ledcor we believe diversity, equity, and inclusion should be part of everything we do. We are proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, Veteran status or any other identifying characteristic are encouraged to apply.

Our True Blue team consists of individuals from all backgrounds who contribute diverse perspectives and experiences to Ledcor. For more information about Ledcor's Inclusion and Diversity initiatives, please visit our I&D page. Adjustments will be provided in all parts of our hiring process. Applicants need to make their needs known in advance by submitting a request via email.

All applicants must be able to show proof of eligibility to work in the United States.

Ledcor participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States. E-Verify is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Link to: https://www.uscis.gov/e-verify