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Temporary Leach Pad Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We have five operating gold mines and a clear path to achieve more than one million ounces of ... Work as a member of a crew to irrigate leach pad and conduct frequent maintenance to maintain ...

Process Operator

Mojave, CA · On-site

$24.19 - $49.41/hr

As a Process Operator, you would report to the Merrill-Crowe Process Supervisor. This is a safety ... Monitor and balance solution flows from the heap leach pad to the pump box and Merrill-Crowe Plant.

Electrical Lead

Reno, NV · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

The conventional heap leach pad is segregated into these two operating areas where it will be irrigated, with leach solutions collected and processed into dore bars through the ADR facility. Site ...

Three barren pumps then pump the cyanide treated solution back to the Leach Pad. On a regular ... Operator is also responsible for taking various samples, totalizer readings, assisting/overseeing ...

Mechanical Lead

Lovelock, NV · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

The conventional heap leach pad is segregated into these two operating areas where it will be irrigated, with leach solutions collected and processed into dore bars through the ADR facility. Site ...

Process Operator

Elko, NV

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

Previous leach pad or plant experience is preferred. Care and custody of equipment. Willing to ... Follows operating procedures and complies with all regulatory requirements. Kinross Leadership ...

Process Operator

Elko, NV · On-site

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

... leach pad or plant experience is preferred. • Care and custody of equipment. • Willing to train others on equipment. • General understanding of process mining operations (leach pads, CIC, and ...

Process Operator

Valmy, NV · On-site

$17.75 - $22.25/hr

These processes Carbon leach circuit, heap leach pad duties, operating heavy equipment, control room operation. Location : Lone Tree Mine, 29100 Lone Tree Mine Road, Valmy, Nevada Responsibilities

Process Operator

Elko, NV · On-site

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

... leach pad or plant experience is preferred. • Care and custody of equipment. • Willing to train others on equipment. • General understanding of process mining operations (leach pads, CIC, and ...

Metallurgist

Golden Valley, AZ · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

Review day-to-day operating practices. Forecast and reconcile metal production. * Produce stacking plans and irrigation cycle strategies for ore being placed on the heap leach pad in accordance with ...

Pad Mechanic

Fairbanks, AK · On-site

$26.75 - $35/hr

Designs and constructs heap leach pads including road building, piping and drip tube installation ... Experience operating small equipment such as forklifts, skid-steers, and loaders preferred.

Pad Mechanic

Fairbanks, AK

$26.75 - $35/hr

Designs and constructs heap leach pads including road building, piping and drip tube installation ... Experience operating small equipment such as forklifts, skid-steers, and loaders preferred.

Pad Mechanic

Fairbanks, AK

$26.75 - $35/hr

Designs and constructs heap leach pads including road building, piping and drip tube installation ... Experience operating small equipment such as forklifts, skid-steers, and loaders preferred.

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Temporary Leach Pad Operator information

What is the difference between Temporary Leach Pad Operator vs Heap Leach Operator?

AspectTemporary Leach Pad OperatorHeap Leach Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, basic mining certificationsOSHA safety training, basic mining certifications
Work EnvironmentMining sites, leach pad areas, outdoorMining sites, heap leach facilities, outdoor
Industry UsageUsed during initial leaching phases or short-term projectsUsed for ongoing or long-term heap leaching operations

Both roles involve working in mining environments with safety certifications and outdoor settings. The main difference is that Temporary Leach Pad Operators typically work during specific project phases or short-term operations, while Heap Leach Operators handle continuous, long-term heap leaching processes. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify job expectations and industry roles.

What are some common challenges faced by Temporary Leach Pad Operators and how can they be managed?

Temporary Leach Pad Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, managing chemical handling safely, and maintaining consistent leach pad irrigation flows. To manage these effectively, operators should follow strict safety protocols, use personal protective equipment, and communicate closely with both maintenance and process teams to address issues promptly. Staying organized and adhering to established procedures can help minimize risks and ensure the leaching process runs smoothly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Temporary Leach Pad Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Temporary Leach Pad Operator, you need knowledge of mining operations, basic mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with heavy equipment, leach pad irrigation systems, and safety protocols is essential, and some roles may require MSHA certification. Strong attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to work well in a team environment are important soft skills. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible operation of the leach pad in mining settings.

What are Temporary Leach Pad Operators?

Temporary Leach Pad Operators are workers hired on a short-term basis to assist in the operation and maintenance of leach pads at mining sites. Their responsibilities typically include monitoring the leaching process, ensuring proper distribution of leaching solutions, inspecting pad integrity, and reporting any issues or irregularities. They play a key role in ensuring the efficient extraction of valuable minerals from ore using chemical solutions. These operators often work under the supervision of permanent staff and must follow strict safety and environmental guidelines. Temporary positions may last for a few weeks to several months, depending on project needs.
What are the most commonly searched types of Leach Pad Operator jobs? The most popular types of Leach Pad Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Temporary Leach Pad Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Temporary Leach Pad Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Temporary Leach Pad Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 33% Full Time, 57% Part Time, 8% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

$27.23 - $30.39/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Equinox Gold is a growth-focused Canadian mining company operation in the Americas, with projects in Canada, the USA, Mexico, and Nicaragua. We have five operating gold mines and a clear path to achieve more than one million ounces of annual gold production from a pipeline of development and expansion projects. Equinox Gold’s team of proven and experienced mining professionals identify promising assets and develop them into world-class mines that operate to the highest environmental, social and safety standards. We are looking for individuals who want to be part of this high-functioning team and are committed to the Company’s success, just as we are dedicated to developing our people. We invite you to join our team as Equinox Gold works to achieve its vision of becoming the premier Americas gold producer.

POSITION OBJECTIVES

Operate the carbon adsorption circuit which comprises carbon transferring, solution flow management, and reagent control that are all centered around the leach pad. Work as a member of a crew to irrigate leach pad and conduct frequent maintenance to maintain barren solution system and process targets.

KEY PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES:

  • Work in a safe and respectful manner at all times.
  • Perform proper inspections to report and mitigate all unsafe conditions or defects immediately.
  • Monitor, log and control chemical inventories.
  • Perform all necessary plant and leach pad operations functions (see Job Summary) on a rotating 12-hour shift (days and nights with required weekends and holidays worked).
  •  Monitor, enable, and drive peak plant performance through sampling, chemical titration and plant operating system feedback with proper adjustments.
  • Operate mobile equipment safely.
  • Understand and act on direction from lead operators and/or supervisors.
  • Operate various hand and power tools such as wrenches, drills, chainsaws and pipe fusers.
  • Understand solution flow and able to read pressure gauges, flowmeters and other instruments.
  • Monitor and troubleshoot equipment and upset conditions.
  • Additional responsibilities and duties as required.

MININUM EDUCATION OR SUBSTITUTED EXPERIENCE

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • 1 year working in an industrial environment

SKILLS

  • Communication (written and verbal) in English, Excel and other Office programs

Working Conditions: 
Work is performed at an active mine site that may include open pit mining, processing facilities, leach pads, maintenance areas, and office environments. Employees may be exposed to extreme weather conditions associated with a desert climate, including high heat, cold temperatures, wind, dust, and occasional precipitation or flash flooding. Depending on the role, work areas may involve proximity to large mobile equipment, moving mechanical parts, blasting activities, noise, vibration, diesel exhaust fumes, chemicals, fuels, oils, airborne particles, or other industrial hazards typical of mining operations. Outdoor work on uneven or rough terrain is common for many roles. Employees may encounter desert wildlife and native plant life. Required personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn as determined by job duties, task hazards, and work location. PPE includes, but is not limited to, hard hat, safety glasses, hearing protection, safety footwear, and other PPE as determined by job task and location. 

Physical Demands: 
Manual dexterity; handling and grasping; fingering and fine motor skills; speaking clearly; hearing in speech, radio, and environmental ranges; seeing, reading, and comprehension; near and distant vision; depth perception. While performing job responsibilities, employees must be able to communicate effectively and maintain situational awareness in an active mining environment. Physical activities may include standing, walking, sitting, bending, reaching, climbing, kneeling, crouching, or working on uneven surfaces. Use of hands and fingers to operate tools, equipment, controls, or computer systems is required. Specific physical demand requirements will be provided during the interview process. Employees may be required to work while wearing the required PPE, including respiratory and hearing protection. These requirements are representative, but not all‑inclusive, of the knowledge, skill, and ability required of the employee. 

The hourly range for this position is $27.23 - $30.39, based on experience. 

Key Benefits Provided:

  • Career Advancement Opportunities: Unlock potential for growth and progression with a top mining company
  • Competitive Compensation: Attractive pay coupled with bonus incentives
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan: Benefit from a company-matched program designed to support your long-term financial security
  • Comprehensive Insurance Coverage: Access extensive medical, dental, and vision plans for your health and well-being
  • Paid Time Off: Maintain a healthy work-life balance

We thank all candidates for their applications, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

EOE: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.