Continuous Mining Machine Operators
Continuous mining machine operators run self-propelled equipment that extracts coal, metal ores, nonmetal ores, rock, stone, or sand directly from mine faces. The extracted material loads continuously onto conveyors, shuttle cars, or trucks. Work takes place underground or in surface mining operations.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against continuous mining machine operators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical shift involves starting and operating the mining machine, monitoring equipment performance, and positioning the machine to access new sections of the ore face. Operators watch for equipment malfunctions, communicate with other crew members about material flow, and perform basic maintenance checks. Work follows established mining schedules, often in 8-hour or 12-hour shifts. Environmental conditions vary by mine type and location.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You do well in this work if you prefer hands-on tasks with clear procedures and measurable outcomes. You're comfortable with machinery operation, pay attention to safety rules, and work effectively as part of a mining crew following established routines.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | $64,440 | $90,820 | $99,850 | 420 |
| Nevada | $80,990 | $85,590 | $87,090 | 1,110 |
| Wyoming | $85,260 | $85,260 | $114,540 | 330 |
| Colorado | $81,040 | $81,110 | $81,110 | 290 |
| West Virginia | $64,270 | $77,570 | $81,720 | 720 |
| Illinois | $47,490 | $74,830 | $78,500 | 230 |
| Indiana | $68,570 | $71,570 | $71,900 | 170 |
| Virginia | $52,280 | $63,480 | $74,630 | 230 |
| California | $62,240 | $62,790 | $78,830 | 940 |
| Florida | $44,760 | $62,580 | $63,270 | 230 |
| Idaho | $52,180 | $60,990 | $80,050 | 70 |
| Arizona | $60,300 | $60,880 | $71,330 | 2,850 |
All 27 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Coal Mine Rescue Teams — Mine Safety and Health Administration
- Oil Monitoring Analyst I (OMA) — Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against continuous mining machine operators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 47-5041.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.