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Entry Level Underground Hard Rock Mining Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Coeur Alaska's Kensington mine comprises an underground, hard-rock gold mine, associated milling facilities and a campsite in the historic Berners Bay Mining District, 45 miles north-northwest of ...

Operating a face drill and/or roof bolter in an underground hard rock mine. * Operating a wheel ... Willing to work in an underground mining environment. * Willing to work with explosives and the ...

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Entry Level Underground Hard Rock Mining information

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$25

$42

How much do entry level underground hard rock mining jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level underground hard rock mining in the United States is $25.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you get into entry level underground hard rock mining with no experience?

Entry level underground hard rock mining jobs often do not require prior experience, as employers typically provide on-the-job training. Candidates usually need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some roles may require safety certifications or physical fitness. Having basic knowledge of mining tools and safety procedures can be beneficial for starting in this field.

What is entry level underground hard rock mining?

Entry level underground hard rock mining jobs involve working in mines where minerals and ores such as gold, copper, or nickel are extracted from solid rock beneath the earth’s surface. These positions typically include tasks like operating machinery, assisting with drilling and blasting, hauling materials, and maintaining safety protocols. Workers receive on-the-job training and must follow strict safety guidelines due to the physically demanding and hazardous environment. No previous mining experience is usually required, but physical fitness and a willingness to work long or irregular hours are important.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level underground hard rock miners, and how can they prepare for them?

Entry-level workers in underground hard rock mining often face challenges such as adapting to physically demanding work, adjusting to confined underground spaces, and maintaining safety in hazardous environments. The work typically involves operating equipment, assisting with drilling and blasting, and supporting experienced miners. To prepare, it's helpful to focus on physical fitness, familiarize yourself with safety protocols, and be open to learning from mentors on the team. Strong communication skills and a willingness to follow strict safety procedures are essential for success and advancement in this field.

What is the difference between Entry Level Underground Hard Rock Mining vs Entry Level Underground Soft Rock Mining?

AspectEntry Level Underground Hard Rock MiningEntry Level Underground Soft Rock Mining
CertificationsMining Safety Certification, Basic First AidMining Safety Certification, Basic First Aid
Work EnvironmentUnderground, rocky, challenging terrainUnderground, softer rock formations
Industry UsageMining metals like gold, copper, and ironMining coal, salt, or other soft minerals
Job TasksDrilling, blasting, ore extractionDrilling, material removal, processing

Both roles require similar safety certifications and work underground, but hard rock mining involves extracting metals from solid rock formations, while soft rock mining focuses on softer minerals like coal or salt. The work environment and tasks differ mainly in the type of rock and mineral being mined.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level underground hard rock miner?

To thrive as an Entry Level Underground Hard Rock Miner, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, physical fitness, and basic mechanical aptitude. Familiarity with mining-specific equipment, such as drills and loaders, as well as safety certifications like MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration) training, are essential. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to follow strict safety protocols help individuals excel in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure personal safety, operational efficiency, and compliance with regulatory standards in hazardous underground environments.
More about Entry Level Underground Hard Rock Mining jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Underground Hard Rock Mining jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Underground Hard Rock Mining job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Underground Hard Rock Mining jobs? The most popular types of Underground Hard Rock Mining jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Underground Hard Rock Mining jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Underground Hard Rock Mining jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Underground Hard Rock Mining jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Underground Hard Rock Mining jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Underground Hard Rock Mining job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,564 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

Experienced Underground Miner

Coeur Mining

Juneau, AK • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Coeur Mining rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 41 rated mining


Job description

We Pursue a Higher Standard

We are a U.S.-based, well-diversified, growing precious metals producer with seven wholly-owned operations: the New Afton gold-copper mine in British Columbia, Canada, the Rainy River gold-silver mine in Ontario, Canada, the Las Chispas silver-gold mine in Sonora, Mexico, the Palmarejo gold-silver mine in Chihuahua, Mexico, the Rochester silver-gold mine in Nevada, the Kensington gold mine in Alaska and the Wharf gold mine in South Dakota. In addition, the Company wholly-owns the Silvertip polymetallic critical minerals exploration project in British Columbia, Canada.

Coeur Alaska’s Kensington mine comprises an underground, hard-rock gold mine, associated milling facilities and a campsite in the historic Berners Bay Mining District, 45 miles north-northwest of Juneau. The mine is accessed via company transportation including bus rides and a boat ride through Lynn Canal.

Coeur Alaska is an integral part of the local community and actively supports education and workforce development programs, environmental stewardship efforts, arts and culture, and local nonprofit agencies through monetary investments, in-kind support, and employee volunteerism.

Approximately 400 miners, mechanics, engineers, operators, geologists, environmental technicians, exploration, and business leaders operate the Kensington mine. Coeur Alaska prioritizes safety, teamwork, career development and growth. If you want to grow your career in a progressive, team-oriented environment, apply today.

About the Job:

The Underground Miner position will report to the Mine Supervisor. This position is to operate various machines for underground mining operations including blasting to loosen rock, placement of utilities, construction of escapeways, and operating machines to secure walls and remove rock. The schedule for this position is 14 days on at the remote mine site located about 45-miles north of Juneau, accessible only through company transportation, and 14 days off with 12 hour shifts when on.

Responsibilities:

  • Set-up and inspect equipment prior to operation. Thoroughly pre-shift equipment - check all fluids, fuel, engine oil, hydraulic oil etc., tires, steering, brakes etc. for all Mine equipment including; drills, bolters, man-lifts, muckers, haul trucks, and all other applicable mobile equipment.
  • Maintain safe working area through effective methods of work area inspections and safe work practices; inspection, mechanical & hand scaling, work area clean-up, etc.
  • Work with/or as Blaster (if licensed) to load and blast UG faces.
  • Utilize in-house drilling equipment to drill planned and directed shot patterns.
  • Ability to operate multiple pieces of powered mining equipment such as rock drills, bolters, loaders, haulers, scalers, pumps, etc. safely and effectively.
  • Maintain berms and scale mine workings and high-walls to maintain acceptable ground control throughout mine to ensure safe access.
  • Examine materials, or products visually or with hands, in order to ensure conformance to established standards.
  • Clear and level benches as required.
  • Clean, adjust and maintain equipment, using hand tools if/as needed.
  • Uses shovels, cutters, scaling bars, and other hand tools proficiently as part of the mining process
  • Ability to identify, maintain and (if applicable) repair minor/general maintenance on underground equipment.
  • Perform all other duties as cross-trained and requested.
  • Attend meetings as required or directed.
  • Perform all applicable required paperwork and workplace documentation as required by the company.

Required Qualifications & Skills:

  • Ability to work safe and promote safe behavior in others.
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Experience operating underground mining equipment.
  • Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and a team-oriented mindset – being respectful, reliable, and easy to work with is just as important as technical skills.
  • Willingness to assist others, adapt to changing conditions, and proactively solve problems in a dynamic and inclusive work environment.
  • Excellent safety, attendance, and work records.
  • Able to stand, walk, use hands to handle or feel, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. Able to talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to manipulate objects and controls.
  • Vision abilities (with correction) include close, distance, peripheral, depth, and the ability to adjust focus.
  • Able to climb ladders, work at heights, work in all weather conditions.
  • Able to move/carry objects up to 50 lbs.
  • Able to wear appropriate and required underground Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Ability to work with minimal supervision.
  • Sets high standards for self and others, builds trust, and takes accountability.
  • Preference given to Alaska residents.

Physical Demands:

This position requires the ability to safely perform work in a mining environment, including, but not limited to:

  • Working outdoors in a range of environmental conditions, including rain, snow, ice, wind, cold temperatures, and periods of limited daylight.
  • Frequent standing and walking on uneven surfaces on surface and underground.
  • Climbing stairs, ladders, and escapeways.
  • Lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds often and up to 100 pounds on occasion, pushing and pulling equipment or materials up to 50-100 pounds, bending, kneeling, crouching, and reaching.
  • Employees must be able to wear required PPE, including respiratory protection when applicable, work in varying environmental conditions, and participate in emergency response and evacuation procedures.

Mine Site Information:

The Kensington Mine is located within the historic Berners Bay Mining District, a region with deep mining roots that date back over a century. The mine site is a remote camp located approximately 45 miles outside of Juneau, Alaska. Transportation to and from the mine site happens twice per day (once in the morning and once in the afternoon) and takes approximately 1.5 hours each way. To get to the mine site, employees board a bus in Juneau that transports to the Yankee Cove dock (~30 minutes), then board a boat (~45 minutes), then board another bus to the camp area (~15 minutes). Food and housing is provided on-site to employees. Rooms are dormitory style with two twin beds, a TV, and storage for your personal belongings.

Notice to Applicants:

After submitting your application, you will receive an automated email confirming receipt. Due to a high volume of applications, we are unable to provide individual updates or respond to application inquiries. Only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

Many hiring managers work rotational schedules, and the review process may take several weeks. Please note that applicants should not expect additional communication during this time. If you are not selected for an interview, you will receive an email notification once the position has been filled.

It is the policy of Coeur Mining, Inc. and its direct and indirect United States subsidiaries (the “Company”) to provide equal opportunity employment to all Employees and applicants for employment. No person working at the Company's facilities in the United States is to be discriminated against in employment because of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, disability, or veteran status.


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