2

Entry Level Open Pit Mine Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Process Operator

Round Mountain, NV · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

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.

$90 - $120/hr

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.

Gold Hill Electrician

Nevada, IA · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

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.

$90 - $120/hr

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.

Surveyor

Mojave, CA · On-site

$83K - $113K/yr

Through Golden Queen Mining Co., LLC, we operate a modern gold and silver open-pit, heap-leach mine just outside Mojave. The site uses conventional open-pit mining, cyanide heap leaching, and Merrill ...

Showing results 41-60

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 Sep 5, 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 an entry level open pit mine?

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?

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 are some common challenges faced by entry level open pit mine workers, 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 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.

How much do entry level open pit mine workers make?

Entry-level open pit mine workers typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on location, experience, and specific roles. Starting salaries may be lower, but with experience and additional certifications, earnings can increase. These roles often require safety training and familiarity with mining equipment.

Is entry level open pit mine a good career with no experience?

Entry level open pit mine positions are often available to candidates with no prior experience, as employers typically provide on-the-job training. These roles usually require physical fitness, safety awareness, and sometimes a high school diploma or equivalent; certifications like safety training or equipment operation can improve job prospects.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $89,183 per year, or $42.9 per hour.

Temp Leach Pad Operator

Kinross Gold Corporation

Round Mountain, NV • On-site

Full-time, Temporary

Posted 17 days ago


Kinross Gold rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 41 rated mining


Job description

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. Kinross began operating the mine in 2003, and it has since become a continuous improvement leader in the Company’s portfolio. Round Mountain poured its 15 millionth ounce in 2018. Round Mountain and the nearby Bald Mountain mine make up Kinross’ Nevada operations. 

The Round Mountain mine is an important contributor to the Nye County economy and, working with local stakeholders, has helped achieve significant improvements in healthcare and education in the area.

Job Summary

This is a position on the Leach Pads in the Ore Processing department and will require training up to higher levels throughout the department as necessary while continuously aligning daily functions to reflect Kinross’ values. This is a temporary position.

Essential Functions

1. Clean up material on the leach pads, ditches and solution ponds.
2. Operate small front end loaders, and dozers.
3. Compliance with all company policies and procedures including, but not limited to safety, environmental, confidentiality and code of conduct. 
4. Meets or exceeds established performance expectations set by management.
5. Consistently exercises discretion and judgment in job performance.
6. Works without risk or harm to self and others. 
7. Punctuality and regular attendance required.
8. Helps develop other department personnel to perform duties listed above.
9. Performs other related functions as assigned by supervisor.

Qualifications and Skill Requirements

1.  Ability to walk up, down and over rough terrain as well as climb stairways, catwalks, liner and pads.
2.  Ability to shovel up material on the leach pads.
3.  Ability to lift & carry up to 50 lbs. frequently throughout the day.
4.  Ability to work at heights.
5.  Ability to work in adverse weather conditions.
6.  Willing to train on other equipment.
7.  Previous experience operating small front end loaders, dozers, and lifting equipment is preferred.
8.  Previous leach pad experience is preferred.
9.  Possesses good communication and interpersonal skills. 
10. General understanding of mining operations, as well as limited understanding of milling and maintenance operations.
11. Working knowledge and skill with P.C. utilizing word processing, spreadsheet, database, and presentation software. 
12.  Strong verbal, written, analytical and persuasive skills and the ability to interact effectively with all levels of employees and management.
13.  Ability to work independently and also as a member of the management team. 
14.  Demonstrates strong administrative, organizational and technical writing skills
15.  Ability to function within the qualifications outlined in the attached physical demands sheets. 
16.  Must be 18 years old and presently authorized to work in the United States on a full time basis. 
17.  Requires valid driver’s license.

Health, Safety, and Environmental Requirements

•  Adheres to all safety and environmental considerations.
•  Have a strong commitment to safe working practices. 
•  Wears Personal Protective Equipment at all times while in the production environment. 
•  Is alert and observes, corrects, and reports unsafe conditions. 
•  Follows operating procedures and complies with all regulatory requirements. 

Kinross Competencies

•  Strategic Effectiveness
Developing and communicating rigorous and creative business strategies that drive sustainable value.
•  External Engagement
Understanding and building relationships with external parties that strengthen and sustain competitive advantage.
•  Business Focus
Applying commercial rigor and discipline to all business decisions and customer relationships.
•  Living the Kinross Values
Aligning behavior, decisions and actions with Kinross values and principles.

Legislative Requirements
US work permit required
Background Check required
Language Requirements
English

Kinross is a Canadian-based global senior gold mining company with operations and projects in the United States, Brazil, Mauritania, Chile, and Canada. Our focus on delivering value is based on our core principles of responsible mining, operational excellence, disciplined growth and balance sheet strength. Kinross maintains listings on the Toronto Stock Exchange (symbol:K) and the New York Stock Exchange (symbol:KGC).


What Kinross Gold employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom