Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining in Pennsylvania
Excavating and loading machine operators at surface mining sites run heavy equipment with scoops, shovels, or buckets to dig up and load loose materials like coal, ore, or aggregates. These operators work outdoors at mines and quarries, moving earth and materials according to site plans and safety requirements. In Pennsylvania the median pay is $52,350 a year, 9% below the national median of $57,430.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against excavating and loading machine and dragline operators, surface mining and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Full profile, interests that fit, certifications and training: Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining.
Licenses and training in Pennsylvania
Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining pay in other states
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against excavating and loading machine and dragline operators, surface mining and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 47-5022.00. Pay: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, Pennsylvania, annual.