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Entry Level Open Pit Mining Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Open Pit Driller

Tempe, AZ ยท On-site

$22 - $30/hr

... large open-pit mining environment. You've worked with modern equipment, understand the pace and ... Based in Arizona's active mining sector, this role offers the opportunity to work on major, long ...

Open Pit Driller

Yuma, AZ ยท On-site

$22.75 - $31/hr

... large open-pit mining environment. You've worked with modern equipment, understand the pace and ... Based in Arizona's active mining sector, this role offers the opportunity to work on major, long ...

Open Pit Driller

Sahuarita, AZ

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

... large open-pit mining environment. You've worked with modern equipment, understand the pace and ... Based in Arizona's active mining sector, this role offers the opportunity to work on major, long ...

Open Pit Driller

Globe, AZ ยท On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

... large open-pit mining environment. You've worked with modern equipment, understand the pace and ... Based in Arizona's active mining sector, this role offers the opportunity to work on major, long ...

Open Pit Driller

Bullhead City, AZ

$20.75 - $28.25/hr

... large open-pit mining environment. You've worked with modern equipment, understand the pace and ... Based in Arizona's active mining sector, this role offers the opportunity to work on major, long ...

Open Pit Driller

Kingman, AZ

$20.50 - $28/hr

... large open-pit mining environment. You've worked with modern equipment, understand the pace and ... Based in Arizona's active mining sector, this role offers the opportunity to work on major, long ...

Open Pit Driller

Mayer, AZ ยท On-site

$21.25 - $28.75/hr

... large open-pit mining environment. You've worked with modern equipment, understand the pace and ... Based in Arizona's active mining sector, this role offers the opportunity to work on major, long ...

Open Pit Driller

Tucson, AZ

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

... large open-pit mining environment. You've worked with modern equipment, understand the pace and ... Based in Arizona's active mining sector, this role offers the opportunity to work on major, long ...

Open Pit Driller

Douglas, AZ

$21 - $28.50/hr

... large open-pit mining environment. You've worked with modern equipment, understand the pace and ... Based in Arizona's active mining sector, this role offers the opportunity to work on major, long ...

Open Pit Driller

Phoenix, AZ

$22.75 - $31/hr

... large open-pit mining environment. You've worked with modern equipment, understand the pace and ... Based in Arizona's active mining sector, this role offers the opportunity to work on major, long ...

Open Pit Driller

Sahuarita, AZ ยท On-site

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

... large open-pit mining environment. You've worked with modern equipment, understand the pace and ... Based in Arizona's active mining sector, this role offers the opportunity to work on major, long ...

Open Pit Driller

Mesa, AZ

$22.75 - $31/hr

... large open-pit mining environment. You've worked with modern equipment, understand the pace and ... Based in Arizona's active mining sector, this role offers the opportunity to work on major, long ...

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Entry Level Open Pit Mining information

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How much do entry level open pit mining jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level open pit mining in the United States is $26.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $29.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an entry level open pit mining worker, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic mechanical aptitude, and physical fitness to handle demanding tasks. Familiarity with mining safety protocols, heavy machinery operation, and certifications such as MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration) are often required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are crucial soft skills in this environment. These competencies ensure safe, efficient operations and help maintain productivity while minimizing risks in hazardous mining conditions.

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 face challenges such as adapting to shift work, coping with physically demanding tasks, and working in challenging weather conditions. Safety is a top priority, so new hires must quickly learn and adhere to strict safety protocols. Teamwork is essential, as daily responsibilities often involve close collaboration with equipment operators, engineers, and safety personnel. Preparing by building physical stamina, learning about mining equipment, and familiarizing yourself with safety procedures can help ease the transition into this dynamic work environment.

What is an entry level open pit mining job?

An entry level open pit mining job involves working at the surface level of a mine to help extract minerals or other geological materials. Typically, these roles include tasks such as operating machinery, assisting with drilling and blasting, performing maintenance, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. These positions are designed for individuals with little to no prior experience in mining, offering on-the-job training and opportunities for career advancement. Entry level workers in open pit mining often work in teams and must be prepared for physically demanding labor, variable weather conditions, and shift work.

What is the typical pay for entry-level mining?

Entry-level open pit miners typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on location, company, and experience. Starting pay may include additional benefits such as overtime, shift differentials, and safety training. Certifications and familiarity with mining equipment can also influence initial compensation.

What is the difference between Entry Level Open Pit Mining vs Entry Level Underground Mining?

AspectEntry Level Open Pit MiningEntry Level Underground Mining
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, safety certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentSurface, open-air sites with heavy machineryUnderground tunnels and confined spaces
Industry UsageCommon in mineral and aggregate extractionCommon in mineral and coal extraction
Job TasksOperating large machinery, site preparationDrilling, blasting, underground equipment operation

Both roles require safety certifications and involve working in mining environments, but open pit mining is surface-based with outdoor settings, while underground mining involves working in tunnels. The choice depends on the mining method and site conditions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Open Pit Mining jobs? The most popular types of Open Pit Mining jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Open Pit Mining jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Open Pit Mining jobs are:
Open Pit Driller

Open Pit Driller

Ledcor Group

Tempe, AZ โ€ข On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 5 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