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Underground Mining Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Short-, medium-, and long-range planning for both open-pit and underground mining methods, including close integration with the production geology group to adjust designs and monitor reconciliation

The successful candidate for this role will have experience operating mining equipment in an underground mining environment, and an uncompromising focus on safety excellence. In addition to operating ...

Underground Roof Bolter

Corbin, KY · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Safely and efficiently install roof bolts and other roof support systems in underground mining areas to prevent roof collapses and ensure the safety of personnel and equipment. * Inspection and ...

Health insurance We are looking to hire experienced Underground Mine Electricians to our team! The successful candidate must have previous underground mine experience. The schedule is 7 on, 7 off ...

The successful candidate for this role will have experience operating mining equipment in an underground mining environment, and an uncompromising focus on safety excellence. In addition to operating ...

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Underground Mining information

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$17

$25

$42

How much do underground mining jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground mining 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 typical challenges might I face working in underground mining, and how are they managed?

Working in underground mining often involves challenges such as confined spaces, exposure to dust and noise, and adapting to non-traditional shift schedules. Safety is a top priority, so extensive training, use of specialized protective equipment, and adherence to strict safety protocols are mandated to mitigate risks. Team members support each other closely and communicate frequently to ensure everyone’s well-being and maintain effective operations. Companies also invest in advanced ventilation, regular equipment maintenance, and health monitoring programs to create a safer and more manageable work environment. This teamwork-oriented setting helps employees adapt and succeed while maintaining high standards of personal and group safety.

How much money do underground miners make?

Underground miners typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the mining operation. Skilled miners with certifications and experience in specialized equipment can earn higher wages, often supplemented by shift differentials and overtime pay.

Is underground mining a good career?

Underground mining is a physically demanding job that involves working in confined, often hazardous environments, but it offers competitive wages and opportunities for advancement. It typically requires specialized training, safety certifications, and the ability to work in shifts. Career prospects depend on industry demand and individual skills, with some roles offering long-term stability and benefits.

What is the highest paid job in mining?

In underground mining, the highest paid roles are often mine managers, senior engineers, and safety directors, who oversee operations, ensure compliance, and optimize productivity. These positions typically require extensive experience, specialized skills, and relevant certifications, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the project size and location.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Underground Mining position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Underground Mining, individuals need strong physical fitness, mechanical aptitude, and a solid understanding of safe mining practices, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with operating heavy machinery, mine safety certifications (such as MSHA), and use of ventilation or drilling equipment are typically required. Teamwork, problem-solving, and effective communication are key soft skills for working safely and efficiently underground. These abilities are critical because the underground mining environment demands strict safety adherence, technical proficiency, and coordinated team efforts to ensure productivity and minimize risks.

Where do miners get paid the most?

Underground miners tend to earn the highest wages in regions with abundant mineral resources and strong mining industries, such as parts of Australia, Canada, and the United States. Factors like experience, certifications, and the complexity of the mining environment can also influence pay rates.

What is an Underground Mining job?

An underground mining job involves extracting minerals, ores, or other valuable resources from beneath the Earth's surface. Workers operate heavy machinery, drill, blast, and transport materials in tunnels or shafts. Roles include miners, geologists, engineers, and equipment operators, each ensuring efficient and safe operations. Safety protocols, specialized training, and protective gear are essential due to the challenging working conditions.

More about Underground Mining jobs
What cities are hiring for Underground Mining jobs? Cities with the most Underground Mining job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Underground Mining jobs? The most popular types of Underground Mining jobs are:
What states have the most Underground Mining jobs? States with the most job openings for Underground Mining jobs include:
Infographic showing various Underground Mining job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,564 per year, or $25.3 per hour.
Senior Underground Mining Project Engineer

Senior Underground Mining Project Engineer

Rio Tinto

Salt Lake City, UT • On-site

$95K - $124K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Rio Tinto rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 33 rated mining


Job description

Senior Underground Mining Project Engineer (Rio Tinto Services Inc., South Jordan, UT):
Oversee the scope of Order of Magnitude, Pre-Feasibility, Feasibility, and Implementation stages of underground mining projects. Provide guidance and technical leadership on mining and mechanical standards, design, installation and commissioning related matters for capital projects. Provide subject matter expertise for the complexities of executing projects in greenfield and brownfield environments. Design and operation of shaft hoisting equipment and systems. Shaft sinking, design and operations. Provide project governance and ensure company Project Management Framework is applied. Review and assess project timelines and cost, report on project resourcing to the Manager and ensure project delivery in a timely manner. Implements, refines and improves project delivery methods and standards. Ensure compliance with standardized project processes, systems and tools across projects. Manage project engineering services providers and vendors including performance against deliverables. Provide detailed review and feedback on engineering deliverables. Ensure effective stakeholder engagement across projects. Monitor, manage and report all relevant project performance indicators to meet business requirements. Maintain relationships with key stakeholders to drive a culture of collaboration, participation and improvement.
Full time employment, Monday - Friday, 40 hours per week.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Must have a Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or a related field, and 8 years of related work experience. Alternatively, will accept a Master's degree in Mining Engineering or a related field, and 6 years of related work experience.
Must have 4 years of experience in:
  • Working on underground mining scopes (project or operations);
  • Supervising and managing underground construction, commissioning and maintenance scope of works;
  • Underground mining engineering and project management;
  • Design and operation of typical underground equipment: Ventilation systems, dewatering systems, crushing, and conveying;
  • Designing and operation of shaft hoisting equipment and systems;
  • Understanding and applying Ontario, MSHA, and ISO Hoisting Regulations;
  • Grouting design and grouting operations; and
  • Shaft sinking design and day-to-day operations.

Must have 2 years of experience in:
  • Functional Safety process safety;
  • Participating and leading HAZID/HAZOP/CHAZOP risk assessments, bowties, and engineering design review processes; and
  • AUTOCAD drafting.

Must have 1 year of experience in:
  • Twin decline construction and day-to-day operations.

International travel required up to 5%; Domestic travel required up to 15%.
To Apply: Interested applicants must apply through https://jobs.riotinto.com and search for requisition number [R57423]. Should you have any difficulty in applying for this position through our website, please contact us.recruitment@riotinto.com for assistance in the application process.
About Rio Tinto
Rio Tinto is a leading global mining and materials company. We operate in 35 countries where we produce iron ore, copper, aluminium, critical minerals, and other materials needed for the global energy transition and for people, communities, and nations to thrive.
We have been mining for 150 years and operate with knowledge built up across generations and continents. Our purpose is finding better ways to provide the materials the world needs - striving for innovation and continuous improvement to produce materials with low emissions and to the right environmental, social and governance standards. But we can't do it on our own, so we're focused on creating partnerships to solve problems, create win-win situations and meet opportunities.
Respect and Inclusion
Rio Tinto is committed to equal employment opportunity. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, disability, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.
We are committed to an inclusive environment where people feel safe, respected and valued. We want our people to feel that all voices are heard and that a variety of perspectives are not only welcome but are essential to our success. We treat all our people fairly and with dignity.
Rio Tinto participates in E- Verify to confirm work authorization. Please visit http://www.ucis.gov/ for more information.

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