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Mine Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Freeport McMoRan

Underground (UG) Operator I

Empire, CO · On-site

$26 - $33/hr

Where You Will Work Our Henderson mine and mill are an hour drive apart - separated by the ... May assist with training and mentoring of other equipment operators * Responsible for understanding ...

Freeport McMoRan

Underground (UG) Operator I

Empire, CO · On-site

$26 - $33/hr

Where You Will Work Our Henderson mine and mill are an hour drive apart - separated by the ... operators Responsible for understanding changes to assigned work areas and any potential hazards ...

Freeport McMoRan

Underground (UG) Operator II

Empire, CO · On-site

$28.50 - $38.50/hr

Where You Will Work Our Henderson mine and mill are an hour drive apart - separated by the ... May assist with training and mentoring of other equipment operators * Responsible for understanding ...

Freeport McMoRan

Process Operator Trainee

Climax, CO

$22 - $29.50/hr

We have operated in Colorado for more than 100 years, with mining and milling operations near ... Our Climax Mine is located between Frisco and Leadville - the seat of Lake County and the highest ...

Freeport McMoRan

Process Operator Trainee

CO · On-site

$22 - $29.50/hr

We have operated in Colorado for more than 100 years, with mining and milling operations near ... Our Climax Mine is located between Frisco and Leadville - the seat of Lake County and the highest ...

Freeport-McMoRan, Inc.

Process Operator Trainee

CO · On-site

$22 - $29.50/hr

We have operated in Colorado for more than 100 years, with mining and milling operations near ... Our Climax Mine is located between Frisco and Leadville - the seat of Lake County and the highest ...

Freeport McMoRan

Mill Operator I

Parshall, CO · On-site

$26 - $33/hr

The Henderson mine is an underground molybdenum mining operation located approximately 42 miles west of Denver and 10 miles west of Empire. It has been in operation since 1976 and today consists of a ...

Freeport McMoRan

Mill Operator I

Parshall, CO · On-site

$26 - $33/hr

Where You Will Work Our Henderson mine and mill are an hour drive apart - separated by the Continental Divide and a 15-mile conveyor system (10 miles underground). The Henderson mine is an ...

Freeport McMoRan

Mill Operator I

Parshall, CO · On-site

$26 - $33/hr

Where You Will Work Our Henderson mine and mill are an hour drive apart - separated by the Continental Divide and a 15-mile conveyor system (10 miles underground). The Henderson mine is an ...

Freeport-McMoRan, Inc.

Mill Operator I

Parshall, CO · On-site

$1.4K/mo

Where You Will Work Our Henderson mine and mill are an hour drive apart - separated by the Continental Divide and a 15-mile conveyor system (10 miles underground). The Henderson mine is an ...

Freeport McMoRan

Mill Operator I

Parshall, CO

$26 - $33/hr

Where You Will Work Our Henderson mine and mill are an hour drive apart - separated by the Continental Divide and a 15-mile conveyor system (10 miles underground). The Henderson mine is an ...

Freeport McMoRan

Mill Operator I

Parshall, CO · On-site

$26 - $33/hr

Where You Will Work Our Henderson mine and mill are an hour drive apart - separated by the Continental Divide and a 15-mile conveyor system (10 miles underground). The Henderson mine is an ...

Freeport McMoRan

Mill Operator I

Parshall, CO · On-site

$26 - $33/hr

The Henderson mine is an underground molybdenum mining operation located approximately 42 miles west of Denver and 10 miles west of Empire. It has been in operation since 1976 and today consists of a ...

Freeport-McMoRan, Inc.

Mill Operator I

Parshall, CO · On-site

$1.4K/mo

Where You Will Work Our Henderson mine and mill are an hour drive apart - separated by the Continental Divide and a 15-mile conveyor system (10 miles underground). The Henderson mine is an ...

Freeport McMoRan

Mill Operator I

Parshall, CO

$26 - $33/hr

Where You Will Work Our Henderson mine and mill are an hour drive apart - separated by the Continental Divide and a 15-mile conveyor system (10 miles underground). The Henderson mine is an ...

Amrize

Quarry Operator

Florence, CO

We're seeking a Quarry Operator who's ready to put your skills to work on projects that matter ... Operation of mobile equipment required to mine rock (For example: Rock drills, wheel loaders ...

Brannan Companies

Equipment Operator

Lamar, CO

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

We mine aggregate, crush and classify into aggregates Functional Responsibilities: • Primary ... • The operator is responsible for the efficient working condition of the equipment and is ...

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All JobsMine Operator JobsMine Operator Jobs in Colorado

Mine Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$9

$31

$54

How much do mine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for mine operator in Colorado is $31.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $39.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mine operator?

Mine operators are professionals responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a mine, ensuring that minerals or other geological materials are extracted safely and efficiently. They monitor mining equipment, enforce safety protocols, and coordinate with engineers and other workers to maintain production targets. Mine operators may also be involved in planning, reporting, and ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations. Their role is crucial to the smooth and safe functioning of mining sites.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mine operator?

To thrive as a Mine Operator, you need a solid understanding of mining operations, equipment handling, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant training. Familiarity with heavy machinery, mine-specific software, and certifications such as MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration) are typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to work well in a team are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and productive mining operations while minimizing risks and maintaining regulatory compliance.

What are some common challenges faced by mine operators on a daily basis?

Mine Operators often encounter challenges such as working in physically demanding environments, adhering to strict safety protocols, and adapting to varying weather or underground conditions. They must stay vigilant to identify and report potential hazards, and they frequently collaborate with engineers, maintenance teams, and safety officers to ensure smooth operations. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are crucial, as unexpected equipment issues or changes in production schedules can require quick adjustments.

What is the difference between Mine Operator vs Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectMine OperatorHeavy Equipment Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, equipment-specific trainingHigh school diploma, safety certifications, equipment-specific training
Work EnvironmentMining sites, underground or surfaceConstruction sites, mining, industrial facilities
Industry UsageMining industry primarilyConstruction, mining, agriculture, industrial

Both Mine Operators and Heavy Equipment Operators require similar certifications and work in related environments. However, Mine Operators focus specifically on operating machinery within mining operations, often overseeing the process, while Heavy Equipment Operators work across various industries handling different types of heavy machinery. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers target the right roles in the mining and construction sectors.

Do mine operators make good money?

Mine operators typically earn competitive wages that vary based on experience, location, and the complexity of the mining operation. According to industry data, the median annual salary for mine operators is around $60,000 to $70,000, with some earning over $80,000 with experience and certifications. Overtime, shift work, and safety requirements are common in this field, which can also impact earnings.

Is it hard to get a job as a mine operator?

Getting a job as a mine operator can be competitive and typically requires relevant experience, safety training, and sometimes certifications. Employers often look for skills in equipment operation, knowledge of safety protocols, and physical fitness, with opportunities available in mining regions and companies that prioritize safety standards.

What are popular job titles related to Mine Operator jobs in Colorado?

For Mine Operator jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mine Operator jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Mine Operator jobs in Colorado are:

Mine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mine Operator job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,897 per year, or $31.2 per hour.

Underground (UG) Operator I

Freeport McMoRan

Empire, CO • On-site

$26 - $33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Freeport-McMoRan rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 141 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 41 rated mining

Job description

At Climax Molybdenum, we are committed to providing an employment package that recognizes excellence, encourages safe production and a culture supported by our core values. Here, you'll find a collaborative environment where safety is a top priority, all opinions are valued, and people are empowered to grow in their career.    

We accept applications on an ongoing basis.

Where You Will Work 

Our Henderson mine and mill are an hour drive apart - separated by the Continental Divide and a 15-mile conveyor system (10 miles underground). The Henderson mine is an underground molybdenum mining operation located approximately 42 miles west of Denver and 10 miles west of Empire. It has been in operation since 1976 and today consists of a large block-cave, underground mining complex feeding a concentrator with a current capacity of approximately 32,000 metric tons per day. It can produce approximately 15 million pounds of molybdenum per year. The Henderson mill is located 15 miles west of the mine, between Dillon and Kremmling. 

Both sites are surrounded byUS Forest Serviceland of theArapaho National Forest, making it easy for our employees and their families to enjoy year-round hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing in the area. Explore the opportunity to advance your career at one of our sites - the Henderson mine or mill and live life at the top! 

Employees who are required to work on-site are eligible for a $1,450 monthly housing allowance, provided they meet program guidelines.

What You Will Do
  • Operate heavy equipment in support of production including de-watering, materials delivery, maintaining berms, and surface maintenance at a skilled level. 
  • Operate heavy equipment which may include but is not limited to: haul trucks, water trucks, rubber tire dozers, track dozers, excavators, motor graders and front-end loaders 
  • May assist with training and mentoring of other equipment operators 
  • Responsible for understanding changes to assigned work areas and any potential hazards 
  • Responsible for knowing the following procedures: start-up and shut-down, parking, mounting and dismounting, Lock-Out Tag-Out Try-Out (LOTOTO), emergency, fire, working with ground personnel, and Blue Stake 
  • May perform the following duties: road building, managing stockpiles, road surface maintenance, building and maintaining road berms, loading trucks, and trenching 
  • Responsible for understanding equipment components and practices that reduce component damage and wear 
  • May perform operations support activities such as barricading shovels and assisting with power cable moves 
  • Performs pre-shift inspection of equipment 
  • Communicates through computer dispatching system or two-way radio 
  • May perform minor maintenance activities 
  • Performs other duties as required 
What You Bring To Freeport
  • Six (6) months of mobile equipment operating experience 
  • Must have completed academic and practical competencies required (this includes Line of Progression requirements for internal employees where LOP Exists) and have experience demonstrating the required aptitude. The selected candidate shall demonstrate the ability to apply knowledge and skills while also passing a written assessment where required. This exam is based on skills/abilities and/or academic knowledge; as well as safety. 
Preferred Qualifications
  • High School diploma or GED 

What We Offer You 

The estimated pay range for this role is currently$26.00 - $33.00/hour. This range reflects base salary only and does not include bonus payments, benefits or retirement contributions. Actual base pay is determined by experience, qualifications, skills and other job-related factors. This role is eligible for additional discretionary and incentive payment considerations based on company and individual performance. More details will be shared during the hiring process. Click here to view a sample of Total Rewards Estimate for this role.

  • Employees who are required to work on-site are eligible for a $1,450 monthly housing allowance, provided they meet program guidelines 
  • Affordable medical, dental and vision benefits 
  • Company-paid life and disability insurance 
  • 401(k) plan with employer contribution/match 
  • Paid time off, paid sick time, holiday pay, parental leave 
  • Tuition assistance 
  • Employee Assistance Program 
  • Discounted insurance plans for pet, auto, home and vehicle 
  • Internal progression opportunities 
  • Learn more about our competitive and comprehensive benefits package!
     

What We Require 

  • Candidates may be required to pass a medical exam. 
  • Candidates must pass all required training and/or testing. 
  • Employees may be required to work a non-standard schedule, which may include shift work (other than day shift) at a 24/7, 365-day operation. 
  • Freeport-McMoRan promotes a drug/alcohol-free work environment using mandatory pre-employment drug testing and on-going drug and alcohol testing, as allowed by applicable laws. 

Equal Opportunity Employer 

Please be advised that Freeport-McMoRan will never request payment for job-related expenses from applicants. If you receive any suspicious emails, please disregard them, and report the incident to HRSC@fmi.com. 

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