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Mine Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Environmental Engineer

Nevada, IA · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

29100 Lone Tree Mine Rd, Valmy, NV 89438, USA Posted Wednesday, June 17, 2026 at 7:00 AM About Us ... Prepare, review, and submit accurate reports as required by the site operating permits and plans (e ...

Sr. Blaster

Davenport, IA · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

Manages daily operations to ensure assets are maintained and operated in a safe, professional ... Must be technically capable of blasting any quarry or mine serviced by the location. * Must possess ...

Sr. Blaster

Davenport, IA · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

Manages daily operations to ensure assets are maintained and operated in a safe, professional ... Must be technically capable of blasting any quarry or mine serviced by the location. * Must possess ...

Drill Services Supervisor

Nevada, IA · On-site

$80 - $110/hr

... are operated in a safe and efficient manner. Provide both tactical and strategic support for the ... Identify training needs of geotechnicians and co-ordinate providing the same through mine training ...

Showing results 21-32

Mine Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$30

$52

How much do mine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for mine operator in Iowa is $30.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.59 and $38.50 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 Iowa?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Mine Operator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,731 per year, or $30.2 per hour.

Night Shift Haul Truck Driver

Martin Marietta Materials

Fort Dodge, IA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Martin Marietta Materials rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 134 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

353rd of 544 rated manufacturers


Job description

Martin Marietta is seeking a highly motivated, reliable individual to join our team at our mine located in Fort Dodge, IA. The primary responsibility will be operating a haul truck on company property while helping with routine maintenance. This position will be part of the night shift surface and underground operations.

Essential Functions

  • Responsible for operating a variety of off-road haul trucks and other equipment utilized in mining, which could include scalers, loaders, skid loaders, etc.
  • Perform daily inspection of vehicle and work area as assigned
  • Observe visual and auditory signals during vehicle operation
  • Perform routine inspection and preventive maintenance on assigned equipment; clean equipment
  • Assist on plant maintenance and repairs as needed
  • Other mining related duties as required

Preferred Education and Experience

  • Must be safety conscious, dependable, motivated and possess a positive attitude in working with others as a team
  • High School Diploma, GED or equivalent experience required
  • Minimum 1-year previous experience in a role with similar responsibilities

Work Environment
This role will be based out of our Fort Dodge Mine located in Fort Dodge, IA.

Competencies

  • Safety Acumen
  • Motivation
  • Adaptability
  • Commitment to Excellence
  • Problem-Solving
  • Communication

Physical Demands
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear; and taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift or move up to 75 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work
This is a full-time position that regularly requires Sunday night-Thursday night and some weekend work. The average work week is 40 to 60 hours per week.

Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

This is a safety-sensitive role and Martin Marietta will continue to require drug testing that does include testing for cannabis/THC

Employment Type: Full-Time

What Martin Marietta Materials employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


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About Martin Marietta

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Martin Marietta is an American-based company and a leading supplier of building materials - including aggregates, cement, ready mixed concrete and asphalt.

Industry

Coal, metals and minerals mining

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1994