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Mining Jobs in Bend, OR (NOW HIRING)

Asphalt Plant Superintendent

Bend, OR · On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

Position Summary We are seeking an experienced and motivated Asphalt Plant Superintendent to support one of our construction industry clients in Central and Eastern Oregon. This position is ...

Equipment Mechanic - Field

Redmond, OR · On-site

$40 - $44/hr

Experience with aerial devices, digger derricks, chippers, cranes; or construction, mining, farm equipment such as excavators, skid steers, dozers or tractors; or military heavy equipment such as the ...

Mining information

See Bend, OR salary details

$18

$28

$36

How much do mining jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for mining in Bend, OR is $28.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.62 and $31.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are mining jobs?

Mining jobs involve the extraction of minerals, metals, and other geological materials from the earth. These positions can range from operating heavy machinery and explosives to supervising mine operations, conducting geological surveys, or ensuring safety compliance. Mining professionals work in various environments, including underground mines, open-pit mines, and quarries. The industry offers a wide range of roles, including engineers, geologists, equipment operators, and safety inspectors. Mining jobs often require specialized training and adherence to strict safety standards due to the potentially hazardous nature of the work.

How can I get into a mining job?

To get into a mining job, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant safety certifications, and physical fitness. Prior experience or training in operating heavy machinery or understanding mining safety protocols can improve job prospects, and some positions may require specialized technical skills or apprenticeships.

What is the difference between Mining vs Drilling?

AspectMiningDrilling
Primary FocusExtraction of minerals, ores, and resources from the earthCreating boreholes or shafts to access underground or surface resources
Work EnvironmentSurface and underground sites, often in remote locationsSurface or underground, often on construction or exploration sites
CertificationsMining safety certifications, heavy equipment operationDrilling certifications, safety training
Industry UsageMining companies, resource extraction industriesOil & gas, mineral exploration, construction

Mining involves extracting minerals and resources from the earth, often requiring heavy machinery and safety certifications. Drilling focuses on creating boreholes for resource access, used in oil, gas, and mineral exploration. While both roles operate in resource industries and may share safety training, their primary tasks and environments differ significantly.

What are different careers in the mining industry?

Careers in mining include mine workers, technicians, and other laborers who work at and manage mining sites. Other mining industry positions include engineers, surveyors, and scientists who help design mine infrastructure, explore potential new sites, and analyze samples that are collected from survey sites or during the extraction process. There are also employees whose responsibilities include transporting mining equipment in and carrying out minerals and other natural materials. Depending on the job, you may spend most of your time on a mining site or perform the bulk of your duties in an office or lab setting.

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

To thrive in mining, you need a solid understanding of geology, mining methods, and safety protocols, often supported by a degree in mining engineering or related fields. Familiarity with mining software (like Surpac or MineSight), heavy machinery, and relevant safety certifications (such as MSHA or OSHA) is essential. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help professionals adapt to challenging environments and coordinate effectively. These skills and qualifications ensure safe operations, resource optimization, and compliance with industry standards in a demanding industry.

Do miners get paid well?

Mining jobs typically offer competitive wages, especially for experienced workers and those with specialized skills or certifications. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and the type of mining, with some positions offering substantial pay due to the demanding environment and safety requirements.

What are common challenges faced by mining professionals in maintaining safety standards on-site?

Mining professionals often encounter challenges such as operating heavy machinery in hazardous conditions, ensuring compliance with strict safety regulations, and adapting to changing geological environments. Maintaining safety standards requires constant vigilance, regular training, and effective communication among team members. Collaborative efforts between engineers, supervisors, and safety officers are essential to identify potential risks and implement proactive measures, making teamwork and adaptability crucial skills in this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Mining jobs in Bend, OR? The most popular types of Mining jobs in Bend, OR are:
What job categories do people searching Mining jobs in Bend, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Mining jobs in Bend, OR are:
What cities near Bend, OR are hiring for Mining jobs? Cities near Bend, OR with the most Mining job openings:
Infographic showing various Mining job openings in Bend, OR 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 $58,889 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Scrap Yard Excavator Operator

Mid Oregon Personnel

Redmond, OR

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Job Summary
A growing scrap metal recycling facility is seeking a dependable, safety-focused Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team. Candidates with a minimum of one (1) year of excavator experience are strongly preferred. This position is ideal for individuals who have experience operating excavators in construction, demolition, landscaping, mining, recycling, or other heavy industrial environments and are looking to expand their skills.
As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will safely operate excavators and other material handling equipment to process, sort, and move scrap metal while maintaining a productive, organized, and safety focused work environment. Qualified candidates will receive hands-on training to operate shear cranes and specialized recycling equipment.
If you enjoy operating heavy equipment, working outdoors, and being part of a hardworking team, we'd love to hear from you!

Key Responsibilities
  • Operate an excavator to move, sort, load, and process scrap metal safely and efficiently.
  • Train to operate a shear crane and other heavy equipment used in scrap metal recycling.
  • Load, unload, organize, and transport recyclable materials throughout the yard.
  • Operate loaders, forklifts, cranes, and other material handling equipment as needed.
  • Perform daily pre-operation and post-operation equipment inspections.
  • Report equipment maintenance needs and safety concerns promptly.
  • Follow all company safety policies and OSHA standards while working around heavy machinery.
  • Assist customers with unloading recyclable materials.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
  • Perform general yard labor and equipment-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications
  • Minimum of one (1) year of excavator operating experience preferred.
  • Experience operating excavators in construction, demolition, landscaping, mining, scrap metal recycling, or heavy industrial environments is highly desirable.
  • Experience operating shear cranes, material handlers, loaders, forklifts, or other heavy equipment is a plus.
  • Strong understanding of equipment safety, inspections, and preventative maintenance.
  • Mechanical aptitude with the ability to learn new equipment and operating techniques.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Ability to lift, move, and handle materials safely.
  • Reliable attendance, strong work ethic, and commitment to workplace safety.
  • Ability to work independently while contributing to a team-oriented environment.

What We Offer
  • Long-term, full-time career opportunity
  • Monday–Friday daytime schedule
  • Paid on-the-job training for shear crane operation
  • Competitive hourly pay based on experience
  • Retirement plan with employer contribution match
  • Opportunities for advancement and career growth
  • Stable, supportive, team-oriented work environment

Schedule
Monday – Friday
8am - 4:30 pm
Full-Time
Compensation
Starting Wage: $22.00–$25.00 per hour (DOE)

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