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Mining Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sparrow Company

Mining Engineer

Victorville, CA · On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

This role operates in a mining environment and works closely with the Mine Manager, operations ... Support site safety programs and ensure mine designs and operating plans comply with MSHA ...

Sparrow Company

Mining Engineer

Victorville, CA

This role operates in a mining environment and works closely with the Mine Manager, operations ... Support site safety programs and ensure mine designs and operating plans comply with MSHA ...

ATOMS Careers page

Mining Engineer

San Francisco, CA

$81K - $102K/yr

While much of the industry remains in R&D, we deliver real, production-ready autonomy that is already operating in the field. We are on a mission to make mining operations safer, smarter, and more ...

Pronto

Mining Engineer

San Francisco, CA

$81K - $102K/yr

While much of the industry remains in R&D, we deliver real, production-ready autonomy that is already operating in the field. We are on a mission to make mining operations safer, smarter, and more ...

New

ATOMS Careers page

Mining Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$81K - $102K/yr

While much of the industry remains in R&D, we deliver real, production-ready autonomy that is already operating in the field. We are on a mission to make mining operations safer, smarter, and more ...

Rio Tinto

Engineer - Mining

Boron, CA · On-site

$126K/yr

Spend time in the field engaging with operators, supervisors, and superintendents to communicate ... Basic understanding of mining engineering principles What We Offer We are committed to providing ...

SF Demo - Rio Tinto

Engineer - Mining

Boron, CA · On-site

$126K/yr

Spend time in the field engaging with operators, supervisors, and superintendents to communicate ... Basic understanding of mining engineering principles What We Offer We are committed to providing ...

Turner Mining Group

Mining Foreman

Hinkley, CA

$42 - $50/hr

Overview Turner Staffing Group is hiring a Mining Foreman to support operations in Hinkley ... Supervise and coordinate daily activities of operators, laborers, and support personnel * Ensure ...

Turner Mining Group

Mining Foreman

Hinkley, CA · On-site

$42 - $50/hr

Overview Turner Staffing Group is hiring a Mining Foreman to support operations in Hinkley ... Supervise and coordinate daily activities of operators, laborers, and support personnel * Ensure ...

Turner Mining Group

Loader Operator

Hinkley, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Overview Turner Staffing Group is hiring a Production Loader Operator to support a mining operation in Hinkley, California. This is a key production role responsible for efficiently loading haul ...

Turner Mining Group

Loader Operator

Hinkley, CA

$30 - $40/hr

Overview Turner Staffing Group is hiring a Production Loader Operator to support a mining operation in Hinkley, California. This is a key production role responsible for efficiently loading haul ...

Turner Mining Group

Loader Operator

Hinkley, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $23/hr

Overview Turner Staffing Group is hiring a Production Loader Operator to support a mining operation in Hinkley, California. This is a key production role responsible for efficiently loading haul ...

GHD

Senior Project Director (Mining)

Fresno, CA · On-site

GHD is seeking an experienced Senior Mining Project Director to provide delivery leadership ... As a Senior Project Director, you are a trusted advisor to clients, comfortable operating at the ...

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All JobsMining Operator JobsMining Operator Jobs in California

Mining Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$19

$27

How much do mining operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for mining operator in California is $19.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $22.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Mining Operators?

Mining operators are professionals responsible for operating machinery and equipment used in the extraction of minerals, metals, and other resources from the earth. They work in various mining environments, such as open-pit or underground mines, and ensure that mining processes are safe, efficient, and comply with environmental regulations. Mining operators may also perform routine maintenance on equipment, monitor production levels, and adhere to safety protocols to minimize risks to themselves and others.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mining Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mining Operator, you need knowledge of mining operations, equipment handling, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma and relevant operator certification. Familiarity with heavy machinery such as excavators, loaders, and computerized control systems is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help operators work safely and efficiently in a hazardous environment. These skills and qualities are critical to ensure operational efficiency, minimize accidents, and maintain compliance with safety regulations.

What is the difference between Mining Operator vs Drilling Operator?

AspectMining OperatorDrilling Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operation certificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operation certifications
Work EnvironmentOpen-pit or underground mines, surface or undergroundDrilling sites, construction sites, oil and gas fields
Industry UsageMining industry, mineral extractionOil & gas, construction, mineral exploration
Job FocusOperating mining machinery, extracting mineralsOperating drilling rigs, creating boreholes

Mining Operators and Drilling Operators share similar certifications and safety requirements, but their work environments and job focuses differ. Mining Operators work primarily in mines extracting minerals, while Drilling Operators focus on drilling operations in oil, gas, or construction projects. Both roles are essential in resource extraction industries and require technical skills and safety training.

What are some common challenges Mining Operators face during their shifts, and how can they prepare for them?

Mining Operators often encounter challenges such as operating heavy equipment in varying weather conditions, adhering to strict safety protocols, and responding quickly to unexpected machinery issues. Shifts can be long and physically demanding, often requiring operators to stay alert and focused for extended periods. To prepare, job seekers should prioritize physical fitness, familiarize themselves with safety procedures, and develop strong communication skills to coordinate effectively with team members and supervisors. Ongoing training and a proactive approach to equipment maintenance are also essential for success in this role.
What cities in California are hiring for Mining Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Mining Operator job openings:
Mining Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mining Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,859 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Mining Engineer

Sparrow Company

Victorville, CA • On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Job Description: Mine Engineer
Reports To: Mine Manager
Position: Full-Time
Position Summary
The Mine Engineer is responsible for planning, designing, and optimizing safe, efficient, and cost-effective mining operations supporting cement raw material production. This role operates in a mining environment and works closely with the Mine Manager, operations, maintenance, geology, and environmental teams to ensure production targets are met while maintaining strict safety, quality, and regulatory compliance standards.
Key Responsibilities
  • Develop and maintain short-, medium-, and long-term mine plans for limestone and associated raw materials used in cement production.
  • Design mine layouts, pit phases, haul roads, benches, and blasting patterns to optimize production and material quality.
  • Prepare and update production schedules, forecasts, and reserve models.
  • Conduct geotechnical evaluations and slope stability analyses to ensure safe pit design.
  • Provide daily technical support to mining operations to improve productivity, equipment utilization, and cost control.
  • Analyze drilling, blasting, loading, and hauling performance; recommend improvements.
  • Monitor raw material quality and blending requirements in coordination with plant and quality teams.
  • Support site safety programs and ensure mine designs and operating plans comply with MSHA, environmental permits, and company standards.
  • Participate in incident investigations, root cause analyses, and corrective action development.
  • Assist with permitting documentation, reclamation planning, and environmental monitoring as required.
  • Maintain mine engineering databases, drawings, and technical documentation.
  • Generate regular reports on production performance, costs, reserves, and key engineering metrics.
  • Utilize mine planning and design software to analyze data and support decision-making.
  • Work closely with the Mine Manager to support operational goals and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Collaborate with operations, maintenance, geology, and plant personnel to align mine output with cement plant requirements.
  • Support contractors and vendors related to drilling, blasting, surveying, and engineering services.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
  • 3-7+ years of mining engineering experience, preferably in cement, limestone, or aggregate mining.
  • Working knowledge of surface mining methods and heavy mobile equipment.
  • Strong understanding of mine safety standards and regulatory requirements.
  • Proficiency with mine planning and design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Micromine/Surpac, ArcGIS, or similar)
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

Preferred
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license or ability to obtain.
  • Experience working at remote mine sites.
  • Familiarity with drilling and blasting design and optimization.
  • Experience supporting cement plant raw material requirements and quality control.
  • Experience with greenfield mining, brownfield mining, pioneering, exploration and reclamation.

Work Environment & Conditions
  • Position requires on-site presence.
  • Exposure to active mining operations, heavy equipment, and varying weather conditions.
  • Travel within the site and occasional off-site travel may be required.
  • Must be able to work safely in a demanding industrial environment.

Physical & Safety Requirements
  • Ability to walk uneven terrain and access active mining areas.
  • Commitment to maintaining a safe work environment for self and others.

Apply