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Surface Mining Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Mining/Project Engineer

Nevada, IA ยท On-site

$80 - $120/hr

Familiarity with the application of large earthmoving equipment in a surface mining environment ... Familiarity with budgeting and financial analysis is desirable* Knowledge of civil/environmental ...

Mine Geologist

Nevada, IA ยท On-site

$85 - $115/hr

Will proactively ensure safe blast hole and surface mapping of alteration, lithology, mineralogy ... Interacts with mine operations and engineering personnel on mining areas daily. QUALIFICATIONS:

Exploration Geologist

Nevada, IA ยท On-site

$90 - $130/hr

... mining schedule, reporting to the Geology Manager. Key Responsibilities Resource Conversion ... Ability to traverse rugged, uneven mine site terrain, including inclines and unpaved surfaces.

Senior Mine Geologist

Nevada, IA ยท On-site

$120 - $190/hr

... surface exploration program to delineate and expand underground mineral resources and build ... Generate Ore Projections for mining levels and grade forecast for engineering. * Responsible for ...

Mine Geologist

Nevada, IA ยท On-site

$85 - $125/hr

... pit mining operations, accurately classifying and dispatching mined material to the leach pad ... Ability to traverse rugged, uneven mine site terrain, including inclines and unpaved surfaces.

About us. Epiroc is a global productivity partner for mining & construction customers and ... surface and underground applications. We also offer world-class service and other aftermarket ...

Mining environment. * Fit and move in confined spaces including tanks and vessels. * Limited working surfaces. * Exposure to noise above 85 decibels and intense odors. * Exposure to areas with ...

Shipper

Delhi, IA ยท On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

About us. Epiroc is a global productivity partner for mining & construction customers and ... surface and underground applications. We also offer world-class service and other aftermarket ...

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Surface Mining information

See Iowa salary details

$16

$25

$32

How much do surface mining jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for surface mining in Iowa is $25.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.92 and $27.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is surface mining?

Surface mining is a method of extracting minerals located close to the Earth's surface, as opposed to underground mining. It involves removing soil, rock, and other materials (overburden) to access the desired mineral deposits. Common types of surface mining include open-pit mining, strip mining, and quarrying. This method is widely used for mining coal, iron, copper, and various other minerals. Surface mining is generally more cost-effective and safer than underground mining, but it can have significant environmental impacts.

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

To thrive in Surface Mining, you need knowledge of mining techniques, equipment operation, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with heavy machinery, GPS surveying systems, and mining-specific software like MineSight or Surpac is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong problem-solving abilities are vital soft skills in this field. These skills ensure efficient, safe extraction of resources while minimizing environmental impact and maintaining regulatory compliance.

What are some common challenges faced by surface mining professionals, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Surface mining professionals often encounter challenges such as managing site safety, adapting to changing weather conditions, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. To address these, it's important to follow strict safety protocols, participate in regular training, and maintain clear communication with supervisors and team members. Additionally, staying up-to-date with the latest industry practices and technology helps professionals operate more efficiently and mitigate risks on the job.

What is the difference between Surface Mining vs Underground Mining?

AspectSurface MiningUnderground Mining
Work EnvironmentOpen pits, exposed to weatherUnderground tunnels and shafts
Required CertificationsMining safety training, heavy equipment operationMining safety training, underground safety protocols
Industry UsageCommon in coal, copper, and gold miningUsed for minerals like gold, silver, and zinc
Work ConditionsOutdoor, physically demanding, high visibilityConfined spaces, potentially hazardous

Surface Mining involves extracting minerals from open pits, offering outdoor work with heavy machinery. Underground Mining requires working in tunnels below the surface, with safety protocols for confined spaces. Both roles demand safety certifications and are vital in the mining industry, but differ mainly in environment and method of extraction.

What are popular job titles related to Surface Mining jobs in Iowa?

For Surface Mining jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Surface Mining jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Surface Mining jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Surface Mining job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,429 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Mining/Project Engineer

Sawtoothmining

Nevada, IA โ€ข On-site

$80 - $120/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

## Mining/Project EngineerApplylocations: Winnemucca, NVtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted 4 Days Agojob requisition id: R-00760**CURRENT EMPLOYEES - Please apply using "Jobs Hub" in Workday. This career site is for external applicants only.**Employee Type: RegularJob Summary: This position will conduct engineering duties necessary for the planning and construction of a developmental surface lithium mine. The engineer will plan and track short-range production during construction and into the mine production phase, working daily with operations personnel, corporate engineering staff, and on-site contractors. The engineer will produce progress reports and report variances to the plans. Work Location: Thacker Pass Project in Orovada, NV.**Job Description:****ESSENTIAL DUTIES:*** Track production/construction activities and compare to plan* Update short-range plans to maintain project schedules* Prepare equipment scheduling to maximize efficiency* Ore Grade Control planning and scheduling to optimize efficiency while meeting the quality requirements of our customer* Plan and track waste streams from the plant as it transitions into production* Assist in the preparation of long-term plans and annual work plans, including monthly updates* Perform and prepare reports for end-of-period material reconciliation* Provide support to the operations and maintenance departments as directed* Design and oversee construction projects, including buildings, concrete, and water management facilities* Assist in engineering studies such as operating budgets, optimization studies, and equipment evaluations* Provide technical support for environmental engineering projects associated with mine permitting and regulatory compliance, including surface and groundwater management, soils handling, waste management, and blasting* Perform job duties in accordance with MSHA law and regulations, established company safety procedures, and state and federal regulations* Other duties as assigned**KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:*** Advanced knowledge of computer applications is required* Microsoft Office Applications* AutoCAD* Project Scheduling Software* Geologic modeling and mine planning software (Vulcan a plus)* Strong written and interpersonal communication skills are required* Excellent problem-solving skills* Familiarity with the application of large earthmoving equipment in a surface mining environment* Familiarity with budgeting and financial analysis is desirable* Knowledge of civil/environmental engineering applications and environmental and safety regulations**EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:*** A Bachelor of Science degree in Mining Engineering, Civil Engineering, Geological Engineering, Construction Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field* Experience with construction and/or project management is desirable**RELOCATION:**Assistance with relocation is available**ANALYSIS OF PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF POSITION:**This position requires a combination of onsite office-based work and fieldwork in a surface mining environment. The incumbent must be able to sit for extended periods and frequently stand and walk on uneven terrain. Duties include occasional climbing of ladders and access equipment, lifting 30-40 pounds, and working in outdoor conditions, including extreme heat, cold, dust, noise, and high-altitude environments typical of Nevada mining operations. Regular travel across the mine site and adherence to MSHA safety standards are required.**Physical Requirements/Frequency:*** **Rarely (0 โ€“ 10%):** Crawling (confined access situations)* **Occasionally (11- 33%):** Kneeling/crouching (field inspections, troubleshooting); pushing/pulling (light equipment, sampling devices); reaching-above/below shoulder (equipment access, truck cabs); riding in heaving equipment (haul trucks, graders); entering/exiting equipment (3-point contact climbing required); working at elevations/heights (pit walls, elevated platforms); bending/stooping (inspecting ground, samples, equipment); lifting (up to 30-40 pounds: core boxes, tools, sampling gear); carrying (PPE kits, survey gear, laptops); climbing (accessing shovels, highwalls, stairs/ladders); standing (pre-shift meetings, pit observations, mine site walk-throughs)* **Frequently (34 โ€“ 66%):** Navigation of active mining areas (around haul trucks); walking (pit floors, waste dumps, uneven and rocky terrain); walking on uneven ground (loose ore, benches, slopes); driving light vehicles (long distances across mine site (minimum of 10 miles/day); sitting (engineering design, scheduling, reporting, AutoCAD, Vulcan, Microsoft Office Applications)* **Constantly (67-100%):** Fine motor skills-typing, instruments (engineering software, GPS/survey tools); vision (hazard recognition, surveying, reading plans/screens); hearing (radio communication, alarms, heavy equipment); communication (coordination with operators, supervisors, contractors); depth perception (working near edges, haul roads, highwalls); situational awareness (MSHA safety environment)**WORKING CONDITIONS:**Must be able to maintain constant awareness of mobile equipment traffic, safely navigate uneven ground, withstand temperature extremes and weather exposure, and wear and function in required PPE: hard hat, steel-toe boots, high-visibility clothing, long-sleeved shirts, and safety glasses.Must be able to work rotating shifts and be prepared to travel 60+ miles one way to the work location.**EEO Statement:**We are an equal opportunity employer and we do not discriminate. You must meet at least the specific minimum requirements listed above to be considered a qualified applicant. #J-18808-Ljbffr