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Open Pit Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ledcor Group

Open Pit Driller

Yuma, AZ · On-site

$22.75 - $31/hr

... open-pit mining environment ... You've worked with modern equipment, understand the pace and demands of production drilling, and ...

Ledcor Group

Open Pit Driller

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

... open-pit mining environment ... You've worked with modern equipment, understand the pace and demands of production drilling, and ...

Ledcor Group

Open Pit Driller

Kingman, AZ

Perform basic troubleshooting and minor maintenance to reduce downtime and keep equipment running at peak performance Qualifications: * Minimum 1+ year of open-pit surface drilling experience (rotary ...

Ledcor Group

Open Pit Driller

Mayer, AZ · On-site

Perform basic troubleshooting and minor maintenance to reduce downtime and keep equipment running at peak performance Qualifications: * Minimum 1+ year of open-pit surface drilling experience (rotary ...

Ledcor Group

Open Pit Driller

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

... open-pit mining environment ... You've worked with modern equipment, understand the pace and demands of production drilling, and ...

Ledcor Group

Open Pit Driller

Bullhead City, AZ

Perform basic troubleshooting and minor maintenance to reduce downtime and keep equipment running at peak performance Qualifications: * Minimum 1+ year of open-pit surface drilling experience (rotary ...

Ledcor Group

Open Pit Driller

Douglas, AZ · On-site

$21 - $28.50/hr

... open-pit mining environment ... You've worked with modern equipment, understand the pace and demands of production drilling, and ...

Ledcor Group

Open Pit Driller

Sahuarita, AZ · On-site

Perform basic troubleshooting and minor maintenance to reduce downtime and keep equipment running at peak performance Qualifications: * Minimum 1+ year of open-pit surface drilling experience (rotary ...

Ledcor Group

Open Pit Driller

Mesa, AZ

Perform basic troubleshooting and minor maintenance to reduce downtime and keep equipment running at peak performance Qualifications: * Minimum 1+ year of open-pit surface drilling experience (rotary ...

Ledcor Group

Open Pit Driller

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$22.75 - $31/hr

... open-pit mining environment ... You've worked with modern equipment, understand the pace and demands of production drilling, and ...

Ledcor Group

Open Pit Driller

Globe, AZ · On-site

Perform basic troubleshooting and minor maintenance to reduce downtime and keep equipment running at peak performance Qualifications: * Minimum 1+ year of open-pit surface drilling experience (rotary ...

Ledcor Group

Open Pit Driller

Douglas, AZ

Perform basic troubleshooting and minor maintenance to reduce downtime and keep equipment running at peak performance Qualifications: * Minimum 1+ year of open-pit surface drilling experience (rotary ...

Ledcor Group

Open Pit Driller

Mayer, AZ · On-site

$21.25 - $28.75/hr

... open-pit mining environment ... You've worked with modern equipment, understand the pace and demands of production drilling, and ...

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All JobsOpen Pit Equipment Operator Jobs

Open Pit Equipment Operator information

See salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do open pit equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for open pit equipment operator in the United States is $22.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Open Pit Equipment Operator vs Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectOpen Pit Equipment OperatorHeavy Equipment Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, certifications in equipment operationHigh school diploma, certifications in equipment operation
Work EnvironmentMining sites, open-pit minesConstruction sites, mining, and industrial settings
Industry UsagePrimarily in mining and quarryingConstruction, mining, forestry, and industrial sectors

Open Pit Equipment Operators specialize in operating machinery specifically for open-pit mining operations, focusing on extracting minerals from large surface mines. Heavy Equipment Operators have a broader role, working across various industries with different types of machinery. While both roles require similar certifications and work in outdoor environments, Open Pit Equipment Operators are more specialized in mining operations.

What are Open Pit Equipment Operators?

Open Pit Equipment Operators are skilled workers who operate heavy machinery used in open-pit mines, such as haul trucks, bulldozers, excavators, and loaders. Their primary role is to move earth, ore, and other materials efficiently and safely to support mining operations. They are responsible for conducting equipment inspections, following safety protocols, and communicating with other team members to ensure smooth operation. This role requires technical knowledge of machinery, attention to detail, and adherence to strict safety standards.

What are some common challenges Open Pit Equipment Operators face on the job, and how can they be managed?

Open Pit Equipment Operators often work in challenging outdoor environments, dealing with factors like changing weather, uneven terrain, and long shifts. Maintaining constant attention to safety protocols and equipment maintenance is crucial to prevent accidents and minimize downtime. Effective communication with supervisors and team members is also essential, as operators must coordinate closely with other personnel to ensure efficient and safe movement of materials. Proactively addressing fatigue and staying up-to-date with training helps operators manage these challenges and perform at their best.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Open Pit Equipment Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Open Pit Equipment Operator, you need experience in operating heavy machinery such as haul trucks, loaders, or excavators, often supported by a high school diploma and relevant safety certifications. Familiarity with GPS systems, equipment monitoring technologies, and adherence to mine safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work well in a team are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are critical for maintaining operational efficiency, ensuring safety, and minimizing equipment downtime in a hazardous mining environment.
What states have the most Open Pit Equipment Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Open Pit Equipment Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Open Pit Equipment Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Open Pit Equipment Operator jobs are:
Open Pit Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Open Pit Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, and 26% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,279 per year, or $22.2 per hour.
Open Pit Driller

Open Pit Driller

Ledcor Group

Yuma, AZ • On-site

$22.75 - $31/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

You are an experienced Platform or Pioneer Driller who takes pride in running high-production drills safely, accurately, and efficiently in a large open-pit mining environment. You've worked with modern equipment, understand the pace and demands of production drilling, and consistently deliver results without compromising safety.
Based in Arizona's active mining sector, this role offers the opportunity to work on major, long-life projects where your skills are valued and your career can grow. You're a self-starter who thrives in a rugged, outdoor environment and is ready to be part of a team that sets the standard for performance and safety.
Ledcor offers top-tier benefits, reliable schedules, and real advancement opportunities-join a company where experienced drillers build long-term careers.

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Operate CAT 6200 and Sandvik Leopard DI650i drills safely and efficiently in a high-production open pit
  • Execute drill plans using GPS-guided systems and modern controls to ensure accuracy and productivity
  • Follow all MSHA, company, and site-specific safety standards while working in dynamic conditions
  • Perform basic troubleshooting and minor maintenance to minimize downtime and maintain performance

Qualifications:

  • Minimum 1+ year of open-pit surface drilling experience (rotary, DTH, or top hammer)
  • Strong understanding of drill patterns, ground conditions, and production drilling practices
  • MSHA Part 48 (Metal/Nonmetal) certification required (support provided if needed)
  • Proven commitment to safety, reliability, and working in Arizona desert conditions

Work Conditions:

  • 5 days on / 4 days off rotation - built for work-life balance
  • 12-hour shifts (day/night rotation depending on production needs)
  • Overtime paid at time-and-a-half after 40 hours
  • Competitive Living Out Allowance (LOA) for eligible employees
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and wellness benefits
  • Work conducted primarily outdoors in Arizona desert conditions (heat, dust, variable terrain)
  • Long-term, stable opportunity supporting major U.S. mining operations

Additional Information

Ledcor Heavy Civil and Mining services reach across the lifespan of a mine, from facility construction, to full-scale contract mining of coal, minerals, or metals, all the way to mine reclamation. Our service offerings are vast-as are the projects we work on.

Ledcor has been recognized as a Top 100 Inspiring Workplace in North America.

Our competitive total rewards package provides compensation and benefits that support your physical, mental and financial well-being. We offer exciting, challenging work with opportunities to develop your skills and knowledge.

Employment Equity

At Ledcor we believe diversity, equity, and inclusion should be part of everything we do. We are proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, Veteran status or any other identifying characteristic are encouraged to apply.

Our True Blue team consists of individuals from all backgrounds who contribute diverse perspectives and experiences to Ledcor. For more information about Ledcor's Inclusion and Diversity initiatives, please visit our I&D page. Adjustments will be provided in all parts of our hiring process. Applicants need to make their needs known in advance by submitting a request via email.

All applicants must be able to show proof of eligibility to work in the United States.

Ledcor participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States. E-Verify is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Link to: https://www.uscis.gov/e-verify

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