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Surface Mining Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sparrow Company LLC

Mining Engineer

Sparks, NV · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Maintain production reports, equipment utilization reports, and operating metrics. * Analyze key ... Experience in surface mining operations. * Strong knowledge of drilling, blasting, loading, hauling ...

Turner Mining Group

Mine Electrician

Soda Springs, ID · On-site

$23.50 - $32.25/hr

... equipment electrical expertise and the ability to work safely on fixed plant high-voltage systems. This role is a field-based position operating in an active surface mining environment and requires ...

Turner Mining Group

Mine Electrician

Soda Springs, ID · On-site

$23.50 - $32.25/hr

... equipment electrical expertise and the ability to work safely on fixed plant high-voltage systems. This role is a field-based position operating in an active surface mining environment and requires ...

Peabody Energy

Open Cut Operator

Wright, WY

$18.25 - $22.25/hr

Experience operating heavy mining equipment. Strong communication, presentation, and coaching ... Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Thorough understanding of surface mining processes and equipment.

Sawtooth Mining

Mining Engineer

Winnemucca, NV · On-site

... operating budgets, optimization studies, and equipment evaluations. * Provide support to the ... Familiarity with the application of large earthmoving equipment in a surface mining environment.

Sawtooth Mining

Mining Engineer

Winnemucca, NV · On-site

... operating budgets, optimization studies, and equipment evaluations. * Provide support to the ... Familiarity with the application of large earthmoving equipment in a surface mining environment.

Peabody Energy

Open Cut Operator

Wright, WY · On-site

$18.25 - $22.25/hr

... • Experience operating heavy mining equipment. • Strong communication, presentation, and ... surface mining processes and equipment. • Ability to teach technical concepts to diverse ...

Ledcor Group

Equipment Operator - Mining

Eureka, NV

Ledcor is hiring Equipment Operators for our mining teams in Arizona, Nevada and Idaho. If you can ... Valid MSHA Part 48 (surface, metal/non-metal) required * Must pass pre-employment drug and alcohol ...

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Surface Mining Equipment Operator information

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

As of Aug 10, 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 skills and qualifications are needed to be a surface mining equipment operator?

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 surface mining equipment operator do?

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?

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.

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Surface Mining Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surface Mining Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Mining Engineer

Sparrow Company LLC

Sparks, NV • On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

The Mine Manager is responsible for the safe, efficient, and environmentally compliant

operation of all mining activities. This position oversees mine planning, drilling, blasting,

loading, hauling, crushing operations (where applicable), equipment maintenance coordination,

contractor management, and regulatory compliance. The Mine Manager ensures production goals

are met while maintaining the highest standards of safety, environmental stewardship, and cost control.

Duties and Responsibilities

Operations Management

• Plan, direct, and coordinate all mining activities to achieve production targets.

• Develop and execute short-term and long-term mine plans.

• Coordinate drilling, blasting, excavation, hauling, and stockpile management.

• Optimize equipment utilization and workforce productivity.

• Monitor production rates and adjust operations to meet daily, weekly, and monthly objectives.

• Coordinate crusher feed requirements with plant operations.

• Ensure proper inventory and quality of raw materials supplied to the cement plant.

Environmental Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local environmental regulations.

• Oversee dust control, stormwater management, reclamation activities, and permit compliance.

• Maintain accurate environmental records and reporting.

• Coordinate inspections with regulatory agencies as required.

Budget & Cost Control

• Prepare and manage the annual mine operating budget.

• Monitor production costs and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.

• Manage expenditures for labor, equipment, fuel, explosives, and contractors.

• Support capital project planning and execution.

Planning & Reporting

• Maintain production reports, equipment utilization reports, and operating metrics.

• Analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) to improve operational efficiency.

• Coordinate with geology, engineering, quality control, and plant operations.

• Participate in strategic planning for future mine development

Safety Leadership

• Promote and enforce a strong safety culture in compliance with MSHA regulations and company

safety policies.

• Investigate incidents, near misses, and safety concerns; implement corrective actions.

• Ensure all employees and contractors receive required safety training.

• Promote Stop Work Authority and hazard recognition throughout the mining operation.

.Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering, Geological Engineering, Civil Engineering, or

related field preferred.

• Minimum of 7–10 years of progressively responsible mining experience.

• Minimum of 5 years in a supervisory or management role.

• Experience in surface mining operations.

• Strong knowledge of drilling, blasting, loading, hauling, and crushing operations.

• Thorough understanding of MSHA regulations and environmental compliance.

• Valid driver's license.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Safe operation of overhead cranes and material handling equipment.

• Understanding of material flow within a cement manufacturing process.

• Ability to recognize mechanical problems and communicate maintenance needs.

• Ability to prioritize work while maintaining production demands.

• Strong commitment to workplace safety and housekeeping.

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

• Ability to walk on uneven terrain and climb stairs and ladders.

• Ability to inspect mining equipment and active mining areas.

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.

• Must be able to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).