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Surface Mining Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mine Electrician

Soda Springs, ID · On-site

$23.50 - $32.25/hr

This role is a field-based position operating in an active surface mining environment and requires full compliance with MSHA regulations, site safety programs, and Turner Mining Group's standards of ...

Mine Electrician

Soda Springs, ID

$23.50 - $32.25/hr

This role is a field-based position operating in an active surface mining environment and requires full compliance with MSHA regulations, site safety programs, and Turner Mining Group's standards of ...

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 ...

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 ...

Surface mining or heavy construction experience with exposure to environmental and safety compliance and stormwater management elements. Demonstrated engineering and design experience. * Strong ...

Surface mining or heavy construction experience with exposure to environmental and safety compliance and stormwater management elements. Demonstrated engineering and design experience. * Strong ...

Underground and Surface Mining, Far North QLD Region Roster: 7:7 / 8:6 / 2:2 / 2:1 / 3:1 / 4:1 - Flexible to suit you Mader is on the hunt for motivated tradespeople to join our team across the Far ...

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Surface Mining information

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How much do surface mining jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 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.

How much does surface mining make?

Surface mining jobs typically pay between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specific role. Skilled operators and those with certifications can earn higher wages, especially in high-demand areas or with specialized equipment knowledge.
More about Surface Mining jobs
What cities are hiring for Surface Mining jobs? Cities with the most Surface Mining job openings:
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Surface Mining Equipment Field Mechanic

empire

Elko, NV

Other

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY:

Troubleshoot, repair, recondition, and service Caterpillar and other Empire allied machines, systems, and power train components in a shop environment. Troubleshoot; diagnose malfunctions and failures of machines electrical, hydraulic, and power train components. Must be able to identify and evaluate root cause failures through the use of electronic tools, schematics and other trouble shooting methods. Be able to demonstrate proper communication methods in order to effectively explain equipment conditions, machine status and recommendations, to clients, associates and management.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Troubleshoot and diagnose equipment malfunctions and failures.
  • Maintain good client relations and support for corporate marketing objectives.
  • Repair, recondition, and maintain equipment and components.
  • Prepare service reports.
  • Plan and control cost of repair jobs.
  • Maintain company equipment – keep in good clean orderly condition.
  • Work safely at all times. Adhere to all applicable safety policies. Comply with all company policies, procedures, and standards.
ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Own and maintain required personal tools.
  • Learn and use Empire, Caterpillar and allied product procedures and systems.
  • Maintain current MSHA card if work area requires.
  • Provide on-the-job training to technicians and helpers as assigned.
  • Make warranty recommendations.
  • Communicate with proper individuals to clarify instructions or discuss scope or progress of job.
  • Work overtime as needed.
  • Travel to remote locations as needed.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.
  • Work within and promote corporate values.
KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Communicate verbally and in writing, information, instructions, and explanations to associates, clients and management regarding vehicle/component/equipment conditions, problems, recommendations, and repair processes.
  • Basic computer and internet knowledge required, as well as knowledge in operating scanning/diagnostic tools.
  • Knowledge and skills to operate and understand diagnostic equipment including computerized instrumentation.
  • Appropriate manner, conduct, and grooming adhere to company policy.
  • Ability to work cooperatively and communicate effectively.
  • Knowledge of CAT machine components and systems.
  • Must have acceptable attendance to meet all company standards and requirements.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
  • High school diploma or General Education Degree (GED).
  • Current driver’s license.
  • Minimum of 6 months related experience.
  • Completion of eTRAIN test evaluation.
  • Must be able to communicate (speak, read, comprehend, write) in English.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, use hands, talk, or hear, stand, walk, reach with hands and arms climb or balance, and stoop or kneel.
  • The employee is regularly required to lift and/or move up to 60 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close, distance, and peripheral vision.
  • May be required to operate a forklift with appropriate certification(s).
  • This position is designated as a "Safety-Sensitive Position". A Safety-Sensitive Position includes tasks or duties that EMPIRE in good faith believes could affect the safety or health of the employee performing the task or others.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts; high, precarious places; and outside weather conditions.
  • The employee is frequently exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, extreme cold, and extreme heat.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.