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Surface Mining Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mining Equipment Operator

Eureka, NV · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

Equipment Operator Reports to: Foreman Turner Mining Group The Equipment Operator is a skilled mining operator position within Turner Mining Group. The successful candidate must live the Turner ...

Mining Equipment Operator

Eureka, NV

$18 - $24.75/hr

Equipment Operator Reports to: Foreman - Turner Mining Group The Equipment Operator is a skilled mining operator position within Turner Mining Group. The successful candidate must live the Turner ...

Mining Equipment Operator

Eureka, NV · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

Equipment Operator Reports to: Foreman - Turner Mining Group The Equipment Operator is a skilled mining operator position within Turner Mining Group. The successful candidate must live the Turner ...

Ensure successful sales and delivery processes of the full mining equipment portfolio for key ... Develop the culture of excellence and high standards of operating. * Track major trends in surface ...

Mining Equipment Operator

Pacific, MO · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

The Mining Equipment Operator is a skilled and experienced mining professional responsible for leading safe and efficient quarry operations, coordinating teams, and optimizing material extraction ...

Experience operating additional types of heavy mining equipment. WORK ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL DEMANDS * Work in an active surface mining environment with exposure to varying weather conditions.

Operate off road heavy equipment in a surface mining environment, including haul trucks, loaders ... Experience operating heavy mining equipment with the ability to safely and accurately/smoothly ...

New

Experience operating additional types of heavy mining equipment. WORK ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL DEMANDS * Work in an active surface mining environment with exposure to varying weather conditions.

Equipment Operator

New Castle, VA · On-site

$18.25 - $24.75/hr

Overview We are looking for a skilled and motivated Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team in ... Knowledge of surface mining and sand production, practices and applications * Knowledge of ...

Equipment Operator

New Castle, VA

$18.25 - $24.75/hr

We are looking for a skilled and motivated Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team in New Castle ... Knowledge of surface mining and sand production, practices and applications * Knowledge of ...

Experience operating or supervising heavy mining equipment such as: * Haul trucks * Excavators * Bulldozers * Drills * Loaders * Graders * Knowledge of surface mining methods and production processes.

Experience operating or supervising heavy mining equipment such as: * Haul trucks * Excavators * Bulldozers * Drills * Loaders * Graders * Knowledge of surface mining methods and production processes.

Equipment Operator

New Castle, VA · On-site

$18.25 - $24.75/hr

Overview We are looking for a skilled and motivated Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team in ... Knowledge of surface mining and sand production, practices and applications * Knowledge of ...

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Surface Mining Equipment Operator information

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$14

$23

$33

How much do surface mining equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for surface mining equipment operator in the United States is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Surface Mining Equipment Operator position, and why are they important?

Surface Mining Equipment Operators need mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and a basic understanding of mining operations, ideally supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Proficiency in operating heavy machinery such as haul trucks, excavators, and loaders, as well as holding safety certifications like MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration) certification, is crucial. Attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to work in a team help operators contribute effectively to mining projects. These skills are vital for ensuring safe, efficient operation of equipment and maintaining productivity in demanding mining environments.

What does a typical workday look like for a Surface Mining Equipment Operator?

A Surface Mining Equipment Operator’s typical day involves operating large, specialized machinery such as haul trucks, loaders, or excavators to extract minerals and transport materials within the mining site. Operators follow strict safety protocols, perform equipment inspections, and often work in shifts that can include early mornings, nights, or weekends due to the around-the-clock nature of mining operations. The work environment is generally outdoors and can involve exposure to noise, dust, and varying weather conditions. Collaboration with other equipment operators, supervisors, and maintenance teams is common, ensuring the mine operates smoothly and efficiently. Adaptability and regular communication are important aspects of daily work in this role.

What is a Surface Mining Equipment Operator job?

A Surface Mining Equipment Operator operates heavy machinery to extract minerals, coal, or other resources from open-pit or surface mines. They use equipment like bulldozers, excavators, haul trucks, and loaders to remove overburden, transport materials, and ensure efficient mining operations. Operators must follow strict safety protocols and perform routine equipment maintenance. The job often involves working in challenging environments with varying weather conditions. Training and certifications may be required, depending on the employer and location.

More about Surface Mining Equipment Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Surface Mining Equipment Operator jobs? Cities with the most Surface Mining Equipment Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Surface Mining Equipment Operator jobs? The most popular types of Surface Mining Equipment Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Surface Mining Equipment Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Surface Mining Equipment Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Surface Mining Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
Mining Equipment Operator

Mining Equipment Operator

Turner Mining Group

Eureka, NV • On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Equipment Operator

Reports to: Foreman Turner Mining Group

Job Description:

The Equipment Operator is a skilled mining operator position within Turner Mining Group. The successful candidate must live the Turner Values and be an outward example to others. This position must demonstrate a strong commitment to Safe Production through decision making, priorities, and client relations.

Objectives and Contributions:

The Equipment Operator is focused on key aspects that drive communication and safe production while maintaining a high level of efficiency, and preventative maintenance awareness requirements. The Operator demonstrates safety ownership at a personal level and holds other crew members to the same high standard. The Equipment Operator will train and develop into the Senior Equipment Operator job scope while the Senior Equipment operator is filling in for the Lead job duties.

  • Work with employees to ensure a high level of accuracy and engagement on hazard identification and control
  • Engage crews and leadership to define processes that motivate working towards common goals
  • Assist with MSHA regulatory task training and verify compliance to standards
  • Live the values as part of a visible daily decision-making process
  • Assist with training proficiency audits
  • Involvement in risk assessment processes at various levels of the organization
  • Holds themselves and others accountable for acting like an owner (taking care of equipment, not wasting resources, using time wisely, and being accountable for conditions and behaviors)
  • Maintains a high standard of housekeeping (machine and work areas)

Culture and Communication:

  • Can effectively communicate in English (multi-lingual preferred)
  • Participate in site and project leaders to identify areas of improvement
  • Work with crews to support proactive near miss reporting
  • Leads by example (walks the talk)

Systems:

  • Ability to perform quality pre-operation machine inspections (Based on mobile equipment physical demands analysis)
  • Accurately documents 5000-23 and training checklist requirements
  • Other regulatory & internal / external forms as required

Travel and New Site Development:

  • Maintains a valid and insurable driving license
  • Available to travel on short notice to support timelines and production requirements at existing sites

Time and Interactions:

  • The Equipment Operator must be flexible on shift schedules (days and nights) to assist with training and production needs
  • The Equipment Operator will be self-starting, motivated, with a strong desire to be part of a team and to influence improvement. Communication is also critical to keep leadership and site-based personnel in the loop of successes, challenges, and any additional support that may be required
  • Excellent time management skills

Qualifications:

  • Willingness and ability to adhere to OSHA / MSHA regulatory requirements
  • 1-3 years' experience in mining / heavy industry preferred
  • Working knowledge of safety systems and processes
  • Appropriate attention to detail required
  • Strong communication skills
  • Strong morals and values
  • Exemplary attendance record
  • Exemplary safety and disciplinary record
  • Willingness to be flexible on daily job duty requirements
  • Maintains a positive outspoken learning attitude
  • The Equipment Operator must pass and maintain Turner Mining Group mobile equipment skills qualifications on each
  • piece of the following equipment:
    • Support excavator
  • Dozer
  • Support loader
  • Grader
  • Water truck
  • Haulage truck

Other Duties:

In addition to the job skills above, there may be requirements for manual tasks to be completed to meet other business needs. Operators in any job duty classification may be required to participate in these additional tasks.

Physical Demands:

The physical requirements listed below are essential functions of this position and must be performed, with or without reasonable accommodation:

  • Weight Requirement: Ability to meet equipment manufacturer's safety requirements, including a body weight under 330 pounds.
  • Mobility & Posture: Ability to kneel, crouch, squat, climb stairs, and climb ladders repeatedly.
  • Reaching & Movement: Ability to reach forward and overhead, and to perform sustained or repetitive movements of the neck, hands, wrists, and ankles/feet.
  • Strength & Endurance: Ability to push and pull with a force of at least 55 pounds.
    • Ability to lift, carry, and set down objects weighing up to 85 pounds.
  • Ability to lift and carry objects overhead weighing up to 25 pounds.
  • Ability to lift and move items from floor level to waist, shoulder, and overhead levels.
  • Ability to carry weights over distances of at least 20 feet.
  • Repetition & Duration: Ability to perform the above motions multiple times in succession and sustain activity for extended periods.