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Entry Level Open Pit Mining Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Capstone Mining

Outlying Tech 3

Miami, AZ · On-site

$16.50 - $20.25/hr

Pinto Valley is an open-pit copper mine located at the west end of the historic Globe-Miami mining district of central Arizona, approximately 80 miles east of Phoenix. Pinto Valley has been in ...

Micromine

Mine Planning Consultant

Denver, CO · Hybrid

$105K/yr

Experience with Open Pit mining * A minimum of 7 years' experience in analysis, design, implementation, and support of mine planning and scheduling systems * Operational onsite mining experience

Micromine

Mine Planning ConsultantHybrid

Denver, CO

$105K/yr

A tertiary qualification in Mine Engineering Experience with Open Pit mining A minimum of 7 years' experience in analysis, design, implementation, and support of mine planning and scheduling systems ...

McEwen Mining Inc

Surveyor

Eureka, NV · On-site

$33.49/hr

Key Responsibilities The Surveyor is responsible for collecting, processing, and maintaining accurate spatial data to support open-pit mining activities. This role includes field surveying, data ...

McEwen Mining Inc

Surveyor

Eureka, NV

Key Responsibilities The Surveyor is responsible for collecting, processing, and maintaining accurate spatial data to support open-pit mining activities. This role includes field surveying, data ...

The Concrete Company

Plant Operator

Fortson, GA

... open-pit mining, cement, or aggregate processing environment * Ability to perform heavy manual labor in all weather conditions, lifting heavy objects and work at elevated heights * Strong ...

ASARCO LLC

Command Controller

Kearny, AZ

Sound knowledge of open pit mining fundamentals and autonomous mining operations. * Previous exposure to Autonomous Mining Systems is highly desirable, but not essential. Working Conditions: * This ...

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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 Jun 23, 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 is the typical pay for entry-level mining?

Entry-level open pit miners typically earn between $20,000 and $40,000 annually, depending on location, company, and experience. Starting pay may increase with certifications, safety training, and familiarity with mining equipment and procedures.

What is the easiest job to get in the mines?

Entry-level positions such as laborer or general helper are typically the easiest jobs to obtain in open pit mining, as they often require minimal experience and training. These roles involve basic tasks like site cleanup, assisting skilled workers, and equipment support, and may require safety certifications like mine safety training. Having a good work ethic and willingness to learn can improve chances of securing such positions.

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.

How to get into the mining industry with no experience?

Entry level open pit mining positions often require a high school diploma or equivalent and may accept candidates with no prior experience. Gaining relevant certifications such as safety training or heavy equipment operation, and demonstrating a willingness to learn, can improve chances of employment. Starting as a laborer or apprentice allows on-the-job training and skill development in a mining environment.

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 jobs will boom in 2026?

Entry level open pit mining jobs are expected to grow in demand due to increased mineral extraction and infrastructure development. Roles such as mining technicians, equipment operators, and safety specialists will be needed, often requiring certifications and knowledge of mining equipment and safety protocols. The industry's growth is driven by demand for metals like copper, gold, and lithium for technology and renewable energy sectors.

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 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 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:
Entry Level Open Pit Mining jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Open Pit Mining job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,819 per year, or $26.8 per hour.
Industrial Mine Electrician / E&I Technician (4-day work week!)

Industrial Mine Electrician / E&I Technician (4-day work week!)

KGHM - Carlota Copper Company

Apache Junction, AZ • On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

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Job description

About Carlota Copper Company:

Located in the historic Miami-Globe mining region of Arizona, Carlota Copper Company utilizes open-pit mining and state-of-the-art heap leaching and solvent extraction-electrowinning (SX-EW) technology to produce high-quality copper cathodes. We pride ourselves on a culture of environmental stewardship, safety excellence, and global innovation under our parent company, KGHM. We invest heavily in our people, offering a stable environment to grow a rewarding, long-term career.


Job Summary:

We are seeking a skilled and safety-minded Industrial Mine Electrician to construct, install, modify, maintain, and repair electrical appliances, systems, facilities, and electronic controls across our mining operations. The ideal candidate will have strong troubleshooting capabilities in both high-voltage power distribution and low-voltage PLC/instrumentation circuits, ensuring maximum equipment uptime in a safety-sensitive environment.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Preventative Maintenance & Repair: Troubleshoot, install, and maintain plant-wide electrical equipment, including substations, transformers, switchgear, and medium/low-voltage power distribution systems.
  • Controls & Automation: Diagnose and service Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), motors, starters, AC/DC control circuits, and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs).
  • Instrumentation: Calibrate, troubleshoot, and repair electronic instrumentation, process controls, and pneumatic systems crucial to the SX-EW and heap-leaching facilities.
  • Schematics & Technical Reading: Read, interpret, and update electrical blueprints, schematics, installation instructions, and technical manuals.
  • Compliance & Safety: Maintain strict adherence to Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) regulations, National Electrical Code (NEC) standards, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).


Qualifications & Experience:

  • Education: High School Diploma or GED required. Completion of a formal 2-year technical training program in electricity/electrical design or an approved apprenticeship program is preferred.
  • Experience: Minimum of 2 years of electrical maintenance experience in a mining, heavy industrial, or heavy chemical processing environment.
  • Technical Skills:
    • Proven experience troubleshooting VFDs, motors, and automated control systems.
    • Practical working knowledge of PLC-based systems and industrial instrumentation.
    • Strong comprehension of AC/DC control circuits.
  • Physical Requirements: Ability to work in a outdoor desert mining environment, handle standard physical demands of industrial maintenance, and safely lift up to 75 lbs.
  • Tools: Must possess or be able to provide own basic personal hand tools of the trade.


What We Offer (Compensation & Benefits):

  • 4-day work schedule: Monday-Thursday
  • Retirement: 401(k) with robust company match
  • Healthcare: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance with Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA)
  • Time Off: Generous Paid Time Off (PTO), paid holidays, and parental leave
  • Growth: Tuition reimbursement and internal progression opportunities


Carlota Copper Company is an equal opportunity employer.

This position is designated as "Safety Sensitive" in accordance with Arizona state law.

Company Description

Open pit copper mine