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Entry Level Underground Mining Jobs in Minnesota

Timberline Drilling

Driller's Assistant

Virginia, MN · On-site

$90K/yr

... underground mining operations nationwide, including Alaska. This is a great opportunity to start at an entry level position and earn $90,000+ in your first year! If you apply to one of the open ...

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Entry Level Underground Mining information

See Minnesota salary details

$16

$24

$41

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

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level underground mining in Minnesota is $24.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.24 and $27.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does an entry level underground mining make?

Entry-level underground mining workers typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on location, company, and experience. Starting salaries may include additional benefits such as overtime pay and safety training, and certifications can improve earning potential.

What is an entry level underground mining?

An entry-level underground mining job involves working in a mine to assist with various tasks such as operating equipment, transporting materials, and ensuring safety regulations are followed. These positions typically require physical labor, the ability to work in confined spaces, and adherence to strict safety protocols. No prior experience is usually needed, but training and certifications may be required. Many workers start in roles like underground laborer or nipper before advancing to higher positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in entry level underground mining, and why are they important?

Entry Level Underground Mining roles require a basic understanding of safety protocols, physical stamina, and the ability to follow instructions, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Workers may need to operate or assist with mining equipment, and acquiring certifications such as MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration) training is common. Dependability, teamwork, and attention to detail are valuable soft skills in this physically demanding environment. These abilities help ensure safe and efficient mining operations and support effective collaboration within underground teams.

What can I expect in terms of the work environment and daily responsibilities as an entry level underground miner?

Entry level underground miners typically work in physically demanding and confined environments, often as part of a team operating on rotating shifts, including nights or weekends. Daily tasks may include supporting experienced miners, transporting materials, maintaining equipment, and ensuring adherence to strict safety regulations. You will likely undergo ongoing safety training and be supervised closely as you gain hands-on experience. The role offers opportunities to learn a variety of skills and, over time, to advance into more specialized or supervisory positions within the mining industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Underground Mining jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Underground Mining jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Underground Mining jobs in Minnesota? For Entry Level Underground Mining jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Underground Mining jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Underground Mining jobs in Minnesota are:
Entry Level Underground Mining jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Underground Mining job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,482 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Driller's Assistant

Timberline Drilling

Virginia, MN • On-site

$90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Thank you for your interest in working with Timberline Drilling! We are looking for motivated and dedicated individuals to assist us in providing core drilling services for surface and underground mining operations nationwide, including Alaska. This is a great opportunity to start at an entry level position and earn $90,000+ in your first year!

If you apply to one of the open positions listed on our website, you will automatically be considered for any current openings at any of our locations. We value your interest and look forward to reviewing your application!

Job Requirements

  • Must be willing to work 12-hour shifts (day and night), up to 20 consecutive days followed by 10 days off (including weekends and holidays).
  • Must be willing to travel (including out of state) if no local work is available.
  • Your application will remain active for 60 days.

Job Duties

  • Assist Drill Operator: Support core drill operators in setting up and operating drilling equipment to obtain core samples.
  • Equipment Handling: Move drills, supplies, and equipment as needed.
  • Set Up Drills: Build drill decks and other structures.
  • Handle Materials: Move and carry steel drill rods, core tubes, and casing.
  • Sample Handling: Transfer core samples from core tubes to core boxes and accurately label them with area and depth details.
  • Mix Drill Mud: Prepare and maintain drilling mud as required.
  • Maintenance: Maintain, repair, and clean equipment to ensure proper functioning.
  • Work Area Safety: Keep work areas safe, clean, and free of obstacles.
  • Water Supply: Maintain water lines and supply pumps.
  • Tool Use: Safely use hand and power tools.
  • Vehicle and Equipment Operation: Operate water trucks, tractors, forklifts, and other equipment as needed.
  • Additional Duties: Perform other tasks as assigned to support drilling operations.

Requirements and Abilities

  • Ability to read, write, and communicate clearly with others.
  • Basic math skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division).
  • Ability to lift up to 100 lbs and carry up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to climb ladders and equipment.
  • Willingness to work 12-hour shifts (day and night) for up to 20 consecutive days.
  • Comfortable working in extreme weather conditions (hot, cold, and wet).
  • Must be willing to travel for multi-day assignments away from home.
  • Must be 18 years or older.
  • Must have a valid driver's license.
  • Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
  • Must be authorized to work in the United States.

Benefits

  • Competitive Pay (Based on Experience)
  • Overtime Opportunities
  • Production & Safety Bonus Program
  • Clear Career Advancement Paths
  • Paid Travel Expenses
  • Per Diem for Travel Away from Home
  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Company-Paid Life Insurance
  • 401(k) with Employer Match

Interested in joining our team? We'd love to hear from you! Please apply directly on our company website:
https://timberlinedrillinginc.bamboohr.com/careers

Apply