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Underground Mining Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Peabody Energy

Operator - Underground

Coulterville, IL · On-site

$37.38/hr

Operate underground mining equipment in production and support activities * Install, move, clean ... Must have demonstrated operating skills on at least two pieces of section equipment (continuous ...

Northern Star Pogo LLC

Underground Miner

Delta Junction, AK · On-site

$24 - $24.50/hr

Experience operating underground mining equipment such as Trucks, Light Vehicles, Charge Wagon, Bogger, Tele-remote equipment, Integrated Tool Carrier, Skid Steer, Zoom Boom, Grader, Long Hole Drill ...

Northern Star Pogo LLC

Underground Miner

Delta Junction, AK · On-site

$24 - $24.50/hr

Experience operating underground mining equipment such as Trucks, Light Vehicles, Charge Wagon, Bogger, Tele-remote equipment, Integrated Tool Carrier, Skid Steer, Zoom Boom, Grader, Long Hole Drill ...

Northern Star Pogo LLC

Underground Miner

Delta Junction, AK · On-site

$29.75 - $35.25/hr

Experience operating underground mining equipment such as Trucks, Light Vehicles, Charge Wagon, Bogger, Tele-remote equipment, Integrated Tool Carrier, Skid Steer, Zoom Boom, Grader, Long Hole Drill ...

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Underground Mining Operator information

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$17

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$42

How much do underground mining operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground mining operator in the United States is $25.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Underground Mining Operator vs Surface Mining Operator?

AspectUnderground Mining OperatorSurface Mining Operator
CredentialsMining certifications, safety trainingMining certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentUnderground tunnels, confined spacesOpen-pit or surface sites, outdoor
Industry UsageMining companies with underground operationsMining companies with open-pit or surface operations
Job FocusOperating equipment underground, safety in confined spacesOperating equipment on surface, managing open-pit sites

Underground Mining Operators and Surface Mining Operators both require similar certifications and safety training. However, their work environments differ significantly, with underground operators working in confined tunnels and surface operators working outdoors on open-pit sites. Both roles are essential in the mining industry, with their specific duties tailored to the type of mining operation.

What does an underground mining operator do?

An Underground Mining Operator is responsible for operating machinery and equipment that extracts minerals and ores from beneath the earth’s surface. Their duties can include drilling, blasting, loading and transporting materials, and ensuring safety protocols are followed in underground environments. They work as part of a team to maintain productivity and adhere to strict safety and environmental regulations. This role often requires physical stamina, attention to detail, and knowledge of mining technology and procedures.

What are some common challenges faced by underground mining operators, and how are they typically addressed on the job?

Underground Mining Operators often encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, managing equipment malfunctions, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. To address these, operators receive comprehensive safety training and are provided with personal protective equipment. Teamwork and clear communication are essential, as operators regularly coordinate with engineers, supervisors, and maintenance staff to promptly resolve issues and maintain productivity. Continuous professional development and adherence to established procedures help operators adapt to evolving mining technologies and safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an underground mining operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Underground Mining Operator, you need a solid understanding of mining operations, equipment handling, and workplace safety, often supported by a high school diploma and specialized training or apprenticeships. Familiarity with heavy machinery, mine monitoring systems, and certifications like MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration) or equivalent are typically required. Attention to detail, strong teamwork, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring operational efficiency, safety compliance, and minimizing risks in hazardous underground environments.
More about Underground Mining Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Underground Mining Operator jobs? Cities with the most Underground Mining Operator job openings:
What states have the most Underground Mining Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Underground Mining Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Underground Mining Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Underground Mining Operator jobs are:
Underground Mining Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Underground Mining Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,564 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

Operator - Underground

Peabody Energy

Coulterville, IL • On-site

$37.38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Peabody Energy rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 41 rated mining

Job description

Site: Gateway North
About the role:
We are currently seeking an Underground Operator to join our Operations team at our Gateway North Mine. The hourly rate for this position is $37.38. Gateway North mine is an underground coal mine located in Coulterville, Illinois, just an hour outside St. Louis, Missouri. The mine produces high quality thermal coal that is loaded onto haul trucks and then shipped by rail. It uses a continuous miner to extract the coal.
Peabody Gateway North Mine has a safety-first culture and strives to have zero recordable MSHA injuries/incidents.
Reporting to the Manager of Production, this job is responsible for the operation of underground mine equipment to facilitate the production of coal.
Duties will include:
  • Visibly support and champion Peabody's Mission and Values
  • Act in accordance with and adhere to Safety as a Way of Life Management System
  • Inspect and service equipment
  • Operate underground mining equipment in production and support activities
  • Install, move, clean, operate and maintain conveyor belts and associated equipment
  • Install and move power distribution equipment
  • Install and maintain ventilation devices
  • Install and maintain pumping equipment
  • Load, deliver, unload and distribute supplies and parts
  • Assist coworkers with any, or all, of the above activities
  • Ensure activities comply with safety, environmental and statutory requirements
  • Other duties as assigned by the company

The Lifestyle:
This position will work Monday-Friday, rotating every two weeks on a 3-shift rotation of midnights, afternoons, and days schedule. This position may also require the necessity to work weekends, holidays, or another shift as deemed necessary.
We provide 401K matching, medical, dental and vision health plans with minimal cost to the employee. Benefit eligibility and PTO starts on your first day of work.
About you:
  • Must have prior underground coal mining experience (12 months+ preferred).
  • Must have demonstrated operating skills on at least two pieces of section equipment (continuous miner, roof bolter, haulage equipment, scoop).
  • Must be knowledgeable of State and Federal mining regulations pertaining to underground mining.
  • Certificate of Competency (Face Papers) or Miners License issued by the state where working.
  • Must possess high school diploma or GED

Physical Requirements:
  • Must have the ability to stand for prolonged periods of time on uneven, rocky surfaces for up to the entire length of the shift
  • Must have the ability to be seated for up to 4 hours to operate equipment or vehicles
  • Must have the ability to walk for up to 4 hours at a time. Will be required to walk through different sections of the mine with varying degrees of clearance and headroom
  • Must have the ability to wear required protective footwear, hearing and eye protection, and other personal protective equipment as required by Company and MSHA
  • Must have the ability to bend or stoop for a full work period as a result of mine height
  • Must have the ability to climb up and down stairs/steps and climb on/off equipment and ladders
  • Must have the ability to perform repetitive hand and wrist motions (push, pull, twist, handle), and have rapid reflex movements of the arms/legs and good hand to eye coordination
  • Must have the ability to lift 25 - 50 lbs. on a frequent basis and the ability to occasionally lift items weighing up to 80 lbs.
  • Must have the ability to work in extreme conditions, including but not limited to changing weather conditions, dust, mud, varying levels of noise from low to high decibels, varying degrees of light/dark, in and around artificial light, and in a confined work area
  • Must have the ability to work various shifts (required shifts include days, evening and nights, with rotating schedules, weekends and holidays)

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive; an employee will also perform other related job responsibilities as assigned by immediate supervisor and other management as required. Peabody reserves the right to revise job descriptions or change and/or modify job responsibilities, functions and requirements as the need arises. This job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.
About Peabody:
Peabody is a leading coal producer, providing essential products for the production of affordable, reliable energy & steel. We employ approximately 5,500 people across our operations in the United States & Australia, serving customers in 26 countries.
Our commitment to sustainability underpins everything we do and shapes our strategy for the future. People are at the core of Peabody's ability to deliver business results & serve our communities & we offer an inclusive work environment that engages, recognizes, and develops it employees. We strive to create a safe and healthy work culture where all employees are treated with fairness and respect are supported and engaged.
EEO Disclaimer: Peabody Energy is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Apply to Peabody today #buildingbruighterfutures
For more information, visit Peabody - US Jobs (peabodyenergy.com) or click apply now.

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