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Mining Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... mining / construction or landscaping role Required Personal/ Professional Skills * Proficiency in native-level English * Must be able to ascend and descend stairs * Must be able to wear respirator

... mining/minerals, metals processing, chemical processing, or other heavy industry. Prior experience ... operating automated process equipment (both rotating and non-rotating)at a plant level scale ...

Plant Operator A few incentives offered by the company upon hire: * Retention Bonus: $5,000 paid quarterly. * Shift Differential: An additional $2.00 per hour for second-shift positions at both ...

Batch Plant Operator

Syracuse, NY · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

With more than 50 locations across the Northeast, we are a leader in transportation, mining, and ... The Batch Plant Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring ready-mix concrete batching ...

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Mining Plant Operator information

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How much do mining plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for mining plant operator in the United States is $22.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Mining Plant Operators?

Mining Plant Operators are professionals who control, monitor, and maintain the machinery and equipment used in mining operations. They ensure the efficient and safe extraction, processing, and transportation of minerals and ores. Their responsibilities often include operating conveyor belts, crushers, and other plant machinery, as well as conducting routine inspections and minor repairs. Mining Plant Operators play a crucial role in maintaining production targets while adhering to strict safety and environmental standards.

Which mining job pays the most?

In mining, senior roles such as Mine Managers, Mining Engineers, and Geologists tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $100,000 annually. Specialized positions requiring advanced certifications, technical skills, and experience generally offer higher pay compared to entry-level roles like equipment operators or laborers.

How hard is it to become a plant operator?

Becoming a mining plant operator typically requires completing a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or technical courses. Many employers also prefer candidates to obtain certifications such as a commercial driver's license or specific equipment operation licenses, and some roles may require experience with machinery and safety protocols. The job involves understanding complex equipment and safety procedures, but with proper training, it is accessible to those interested in industrial operations.

What are some typical challenges Mining Plant Operators face on the job, and how can they be managed?

Mining Plant Operators often work in environments where safety, equipment maintenance, and communication are critical. Common challenges include operating complex machinery in harsh conditions, managing unpredictable equipment breakdowns, and adhering to strict safety protocols. Effective operators stay proactive by regularly inspecting equipment, participating in ongoing safety training, and maintaining clear communication with team members and supervisors to ensure smooth operations. Embracing these practices not only helps manage daily obstacles but also contributes to personal growth and team success.

What is the difference between Mining Plant Operator vs Mining Equipment Operator?

AspectMining Plant OperatorMining Equipment Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, technical trainingHigh school diploma, safety certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentProcessing plants, mineral processing facilitiesOpen-pit or underground mining sites, construction areas
Job FocusOperating processing machinery, controlling mineral processingOperating heavy mining machinery like excavators and loaders
Industry UsageCommonly used in mineral processing and refiningUsed in extraction and material movement in mining

While both roles require safety certifications and technical skills, Mining Plant Operators focus on processing minerals within processing plants, whereas Mining Equipment Operators handle heavy machinery at mining sites. Both roles are essential in the mining industry but differ in work environment and specific duties.

What do mining operators do?

Mining plant operators are responsible for controlling and monitoring equipment used in extracting minerals or other materials from the earth. They operate machinery such as crushers, conveyors, and drills, ensuring safety and efficiency in the mining process. Certification and knowledge of safety protocols are often required for this role.

What is the highest paid equipment operator?

In the mining industry, heavy equipment operators such as dragline, excavator, and crane operators tend to be among the highest paid. These roles often require specialized skills, certifications, and experience, with salaries varying based on location, complexity of equipment, and shift schedules.

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

To thrive as a Mining Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of mining processes, equipment operation, and workplace safety, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant certifications. Familiarity with heavy machinery, control systems, and computerized monitoring tools like SCADA is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork set top performers apart in this role. These skills and qualities are critical to ensuring safe, efficient, and continuous plant operations in a demanding industrial environment.
More about Mining Plant Operator jobs
What states have the most Mining Plant Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Mining Plant Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Mining Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,521 per year, or $22.4 per hour.
Plant Operator | Days| Hunter Stone New Braunfels, Texas

Plant Operator | Days| Hunter Stone New Braunfels, Texas

Martin Marietta Materials

New Braunfels, TX • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Martin Marietta Materials rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 131 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

337th of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description

Description

Are you ready to start a new career with a LEADER in the industry and WORLD CLASS team!

What we offer:

  • Competitive hourly pay with OT opportunities 
  • Annual Pay Increases
  • PTO Available as of DAY ONE
  • Opportunities to grow with company
  • 401(k) plan with company match
  • Employee stock purchase program
  • Employee Pension plan (at no cost to employees)
  • Full Medical, Health & Wellness Benefits start on DAY ONE

POSITION SUMMARY

The Plant Operator position involves assisting with a variety of semi-skilled duties around production facilities. These duties include lubricating machinery, shovel spillage areas, monitor the plant conveyors, shakers, crushers, feeders, and pumps, and inspect plant daily. Additional duties may require being tasked trained on plant mobile heavy equipment, including: haul truck, motor grader, water truck, crane, etc 

New Hire Orientation & Safety Training are held only ONCE a month, in the San Antonio, TX office. Be prepared for travel and overnight accommodation up to 1-3 days. Accommodations & reimbursements are covered by Martin Marietta for anyone traveling more than 50 miles.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Proactive in SAFETY and works well in a team environment
  • Operate equipment safely and efficiently in accordance with training and manufacturer's instruction
  • Adhere to MSHA and plant safety rules, policies, procedures, and regulations
  • Perform pre-shift safety inspection on the systems, equipment and accessories
  • Perform preventative maintenance and service equipment
  • Inspect equipment and report needed repairs to supervision
  • Assist in plant maintenance and repairs
  • Responsible for good housekeeping of plant and equipment
  • Perform duties with minimum supervision
  • Assist with operation of other equipment as needed
  • All other duties as assigned

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

  • High school diploma, GED or equivalent experience
  • 1+ year of aggregate/mining plant operations
  • Experience with a variety of hand tools
  • Experience with operation of heavy mining/construction equipment

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

  • Must be able to work 12 hour shifts, possible weekends, overtime, and holidays as needed
  • Must be able to read equipment operating manual
  • Must be able to complete pre-shift inspection report
  • Must be able to read and interpret gauges
  • Possess basic mathematical aptitude to complete daily reports
  • Must be able to wear all required safety equipment 
  • Must be able to communicate over CB radio or with hand signals and warning sounds, with coworkers regarding movement of vehicles and mobile equipment
  • Must be able to perform duties in a safe manner
  • Must be service oriented with proven ability to work in a TEAM environment

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
 

  • This job requires the ability to wear a hard hat, safety glasses, steel-toed boots and hearing protection 
  • Must be able to work at various heights
  • Must be able to climb stairs to a height of 100 ft. and work at this height 
  • Must be able to climb on and off equipment to operate and service
  • Must be able to bend, stoop, climb and reach around all areas of equipment 
  • Capable of lifting and carrying up to 45 lbs
  • Must be able to walk across steep/rough terrain 
  • Ability to use hand tools such as shovels, wrenches, screwdrivers, etc.
  • Ability to operate radio, CB radio, computer and other equipment as required 
  • Must have good hand/eye coordination and be able to operate hand/foot controls
  • Must work outside in all weather conditions consistent with extreme ambient temperatures: heat, cold, wetness, dryness, dust, and noisy conditions 

WORKING CONDITIONS

There will be times when outside assignments may require periods of work in all weather conditions-heat, cold, wet or dry and dusty. Must be able to work in areas where noise levels are up to 85 dbs. 

DISCLAIMER

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

A member of the S&P 500 Index, Martin Marietta is an American-based company and a leading supplier of heavy building materials - including aggregates, cement, ready-mixed concrete and asphalt. Through a network of operations spanning 28 states, Canada and the Bahamas, dedicated Martin Marietta teams supply the foundational resources upon which our communities thrive. Martin Marietta's Magnesia Specialties business produces high-purity magnesia and dolomitic lime products used worldwide in environmental, industrial, agricultural and specialty applications.
At Martin Marietta, we strive to work with the best and the brightest - those who have the potential to become our company's future leaders. Each of our roughly 9,500 people shares a common purpose regardless of their professional role or work environment. Together, we utilize our diverse skills and experiences to drive our company and its extraordinary culture forward. Our aim is to build on our foundation of success and help values-driven and hardworking people realize their full potential. When you decide to invest your career in Martin Marietta, you'll know what it's like to be respected, challenged and rewarded.

In return, we offer a highly competitive benefits package, including: 

  • Medical
  • Prescription Drug
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Health Care Reimbursement Account
  • Dependent Care Reimbursement Account
  • Wellness Programs
  • Employee Assistance Plan
  • Paid Holidays and Vacation
  • 401(k) with Company matching
  • Pension
  • Salary Continuation - Short-Term Disability
  • Long-Term Disability Options
  • Employee Life Insurance
  • Spouse & Dependent Life Insurance
  • Business Travel Accident Insurance
  • Direct Deposit Payroll
  • Educational/Tuition Assistance Plan
  • College Scholarship Program - for dependent children
  • Matching Gift Program
  • New Auto Purchase Discount Plans

At Martin Marietta, we are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all qualified applicants and teammates. We celebrate diversity and commit that qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.


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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