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Surface Mining Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mader Group

$75 - $85/hr

Surface Mining - Bowen Basin & Mackay surrounds OR Middlemount Corridor & Blackwater Reigon Roster Options: 7/7 We're on the lookout for experienced Auto Electricians ready to take on surface mining ...

Empire CAT

Surface Mining Equipment Field Mechanic

Elko, NV · On-site

$21.20 - $67.08/hr

WHO WE ARE: Founded in 1950, Empire Cat is a world-renowned Caterpillar dealer and a top private company in Arizona. We are a fourth-generation family-owned company with over 3,700 employees across ...

consol

West Elk Mine - Surface Supervisor

Somerset, CO

$93K - $140K/yr

Friday, February 20, 2026 Position Summary Provide direction and supervision to hourly employees responsible for surface mining activities, including but not limited to surface coal handling and ...

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Surface Mining information

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How much do surface mining jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for surface mining in the United States is $26.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $29.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.
More about Surface Mining jobs
What cities are hiring for Surface Mining jobs? Cities with the most Surface Mining job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Surface Mining jobs? The most popular types of Surface Mining jobs are:
What states have the most Surface Mining jobs? States with the most job openings for Surface Mining jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Surface Mining jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Surface Mining jobs are:
Surface Mining jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surface Mining job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,819 per year, or $26.8 per hour.
Field Service Technician - Surface Mining Equipment

Field Service Technician - Surface Mining Equipment

Wagner Equipment Co.

Silver City, NM • On-site

$32 - $52.60/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Wagner Equipment Co. rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

63rd of 146 rated vehicle equipment hire

Job description

**$3,000 SIGN-ON BONUS & REFERRAL BONUS OPPORTUNITIES (Details given during interview)**
Wagner Equipment Co. offers challenging career opportunities, extensive training and employee development along with an opportunity to grow your career and thrive under Wagner's reputation for excellence. We offer excellent benefits and supply you with the tools you need to maximize your potential and grow within Wagner.
Benefits include:
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) Plan - Up to 96 hours of PTO in your first year + 8 company paid holidays
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Life and AD&D Insurance
  • Retirement Plans - 401K and Roth 401K , eligible employees can receive a company contribution up to 7%
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • CEFCU - Employees have access to services include payroll deductions savings, accounts, loans, VISA card, and more.
  • Additional Benefits include: Supplemental life Insurance, Critical Illness + Accidental Insurance, ID WatchDog and discounted employee phone plans.

Pay Range: $32.00 - $52.60/hour
Pay rate is dependent upon education & experience.
Join the Industry Leader in Heavy Equipment Support and Service
Wagner Equipment Co., the Caterpillar dealer for Colorado, New Mexico, and far west Texas, is seeking a highly skilled Mining Field Service Technician to support operations at the Chino Mine. This is a full-time field position requiring advanced troubleshooting, diagnostics, and repair of CAT equipment in a demanding mining environment.
As part of our Field Service team, you will work independently, travel as needed, and serve as a trusted technical resource to our mining partner-all while upholding Wagner's high standards for safety, service, and customer satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Independently diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair Caterpillar equipment at the mine site
  • Read and interpret electrical and hydraulic schematics to ensure accurate repairs
  • Use Caterpillar software systems (ET, SIS, STW) to complete diagnostics and service documentation
  • Communicate effectively with customers and internal teams regarding repair status, recommendations, and warranty determinations
  • Maintain accurate, legible service reports and daily truck and crane inspection logs
  • Ensure proper safety practices and compliance with MSHA and OSHA regulations
  • Maintain all tooling and equipment in a safe and operational condition
  • Safely operate and drive service truck (Class A CDL required)
  • Support and mentor junior technicians as needed
  • Work schedule is Monday-Friday, 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM; hours may vary depending on customer needs. Overtime is expected and may be frequent.
  • Travel up to 75% may be required based on job needs

Minimum Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • 5+ years of experience working on heavy equipment (Caterpillar preferred)
  • 3+ years of experience performing diagnostics and repairs on highway trucks
  • 3+ years of experience working on mining equipment such as mills, and crushing and screening systems
  • Valid Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) - Required
  • MSHA Certification (or ability to obtain prior to hire)
  • Completion of CAT-specific courses or equivalent technical training
  • Proficient with diagnostic software tools: CAT ET, SIS Web, and STW
  • 3+ years of customer service experience
  • Basic proficiency with Microsoft Outlook and DBS
  • Must be a resident of the Silver city area or willing to relocate

Core Competencies:
  • Strong knowledge of CAT equipment, diagnostics, and repair procedures
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision in a field environment
  • Excellent problem-solving and organizational skills
  • Clear and professional communication skills, both written and verbal
  • High regard for safety and quality standards

Physical and Environmental Requirements:
  • Frequent walking, standing, lifting (up to 100 lbs.), climbing, and heavy equipment operation
  • Work may be performed in noisy, outdoor, and rugged conditions typical of a mine site

Pre-Employment Requirements:
All job offers are contingent upon successful completion of:
  • Background check
  • Drug/alcohol screening
  • Fit-for-duty evaluation
  • Valid CDL and DOT medical card verification

Wagner Equipment Co. is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer.
We are committed to a diverse workforce and fostering a respectful, inclusive environment.
#WTECH
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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