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Underground Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

MAIN PURPOSE: The Underground Miner is responsible for the safe and efficient advance of all ... OPS operator app throughout shift. * Must be able to accurately track inventory levels of ...

Equipment Operator

Iron River, MI · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

Equipment Operator is proficient in the operations of underground utility equipment (ex. horizontal directional drill, vibratory plow, excavators, skid steer). Must possess excavation knowledge on ...

Be Seen First

Position Overview Heavy Equipment Operator with Underground Utility Experience The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for operating excavators, loaders, dozers, and other heavy machinery to ...

Be Seen First

Position Overview Heavy Equipment Operator with Underground Utility Experience The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for operating excavators, loaders, dozers, and other heavy machinery to ...

... a premier underground pipeline construction and repair contractor. Our workforce is made up of ... Miller Pipeline is looking for Operators who can safely operate heavy equipment around overhead and ...

Hydrovac Operator

New Boston, MI · On-site

$17.25 - $19.75/hr

Hydrovac Operators are skilled laborers running machinery designed to excavate and expose underground utilities safely. This role requires precision and expertise in equipment operation, safety ...

Hydrovac Operator

New Boston, MI · On-site

$17.25 - $19.75/hr

Hydrovac Operators are skilled laborers running machinery designed to excavate and expose underground utilities safely. This role requires precision and expertise in equipment operation, safety ...

Equipment Operator - Pipe Bursting / Underground Utilities Position Summary The Equipment Operator is responsible for operating heavy equipment and supporting trenchless pipe bursting operations for ...

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Underground Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$9

$17

$25

How much do underground operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground operator in Michigan is $17.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $19.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical challenges faced by an Underground Operator, and how can they be managed on the job?

Underground Operators often encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, managing equipment safely in low-visibility conditions, and adhering to strict safety protocols. Effective communication and teamwork are essential to ensure smooth operations and to quickly address any hazards or emergencies. Regular training, proper use of personal protective equipment, and adherence to established procedures help operators manage these challenges and maintain a safe, productive work environment.

What is an Underground Operator?

An Underground Operator is a worker responsible for operating machinery and equipment in underground environments, such as mines or tunnels. Their duties typically include operating drills, loaders, trucks, or other specialized mining equipment to extract minerals or construct underground spaces. Safety is a key aspect of the role, as operators must follow strict protocols to prevent accidents. They also perform routine maintenance on equipment and may assist in monitoring environmental conditions underground. This position requires physical stamina, technical skills, and often certification or specialized training.

What is the difference between Underground Operator vs Mine Technician?

AspectUnderground OperatorMine Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certificationsTechnical diploma or certification, specialized training
Work EnvironmentUnderground mining sites, confined spacesMining sites, equipment maintenance areas
Employer & Industry UsageMining companies, resource extractionMining companies, equipment service providers

Underground Operators primarily focus on operating machinery and ensuring safety underground, while Mine Technicians handle equipment maintenance and technical support. Both roles are essential in mining operations, often working closely but with different skill sets and responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Underground Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Underground Operator, you need a solid understanding of mining operations, safety regulations, and mechanical aptitude, often supported by a high school diploma and relevant mining certifications. Familiarity with underground machinery, ventilation systems, and safety monitoring equipment is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong problem-solving skills help operators navigate challenging environments and collaborate effectively. These competencies are crucial for maintaining safe operations, minimizing risks, and ensuring efficient extraction of resources underground.
Infographic showing various Underground Operator job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,379 per year, or $17.5 per hour.
Underground Miner

Underground Miner

Eagle Mine LLC

Big Bay, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Description:

MAIN PURPOSE:

The Underground Miner is responsible for the safe and efficient advance of all lateral development.


MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES/ACTIVITIES:

  • Must be able to operate jumbos, loaders, bolters, jacklegs, and trucks safely and proficiently.
  • Performs drilling, blasting, mucking, and bolting activities. Determines the number of explosives, placement, and firing sequences with the goal of reducing overbreak and underbreak.
  • Must be alert to any conditions which could pose a safety hazard or result in injury or equipment breakdown or damage, and to report or correct such conditions immediately.
  • Must fill out pre- shift safety checklist on all machines instructed to operate.
  • Must fill out the shift data into Deswik.OPS operator app throughout shift.
  • Must be able to accurately track inventory levels of explosives daily, weekly and monthly.
  • Safely transport explosives throughout the mine using various pieces of material handling equipment.
  • Must be able to train other employees on the safe operation of the required machines.
  • Participate in operational and safety training.
  • Must do routine greasing, oiling, servicing, and cleaning of machines.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Minimum of High School Diploma or GED preferred.
  • Six (6) or more years of experience operating Haul Trucks
  • 1-5 years of underground hard-rock mining experience required.
  • Experience mining in and around stressed ground preferred.
  • Ability to work safely and effectively in an underground mining environment.
  • Solid understanding of all underground mining equipment.
  • Be able to obtain proper clearance to work with explosives.

KEY PERSONAL COMPETENCIES:

  • Action Oriented - Initiates timely action to address important issues.
  • Collaborates - Encourages unity rather than us vs. them thinking
  • Communicates Effectively - Clear, concise, and professional in communication.
  • Decision Quality - Considers various inputs, criteria, and trade-offs to arrive at effective decisions and recommendations.
  • Ensures accountability - Follows through on commitments.
  • Manages Ambiguity - Accepts needed change despite the uncertainty it brings.

HSEC ACCOUNTABILITIES

Everyone in the workplace is responsible for his or her own safety and for the safety of their co-workers. Employees are responsible for performing all tasks in accordance with relevant HSEC Site Procedures, to work safely and keep the workplace safe. Eagle Mine is responsible for determining steps required to ensure health and safety of all employees, protection of the environment, and the community. Specifically, all employees must:

  • Accept personal responsibility for HSEC
  • Identify hazards, unsafe actions, and conditions that could result in damage to property, injury, impacts to the environment, and the community
  • Obey any instruction issued to protect their own personal health and safety, and the health and safety of others, protection of the environment and the community.
  • Report, as soon as practicable to their Manager any situations where HSEC requirements are not being conformed to within their work area
  • Avoid endangerment to any other person through any act or omission
  • Only use equipment you are trained to use and operate the equipment in a way that is safe, protects the environment and doesn’t cause undue community impacts.
  • Participate in HSEC training provided to them
  • Report all incidents; including but not limited to injuries, near miss, community interactions and impacts, environmental impacts, spills, unsafe work practices, etc.
Requirements: