Excavating & Loading Machine Operators: $57,430 Median Salary in 2025
Excavating and loading machine and dragline operators in surface mining earn a national median salary of $57,430, according to the latest BLS data (May 2023 estimates). The mean hourly wage works out to about $28 per hour. Most operators earn between $41,600 (10th percentile) and $82,400 (90th percentile).
How much Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining earn
The median annual wage for this occupation is $57,430. That's the midpoint: half earn more, half earn less. The mean wage is $59,930, suggesting that higher-paid operators pull the average up a bit.
Entry-level operators start around $41,600, while the most experienced and top earners can make over $82,400. Pay varies a lot by region and the type of mine.
- 10th percentile: $41,600
- Median: $57,430
- 90th percentile: $82,400
Pay by state
North Dakota pays the best, with an average annual wage of $90,380. Illinois ($80,600) and New Jersey ($80,310) are close behind. Wyoming ($78,230) and New Mexico ($76,350) round out the top five.
On the lower end, Oklahoma averages $47,100, Delaware $46,900, and Arkansas $46,170.
How to become Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining
Most operators learn on the job. A high school diploma or equivalent is the typical entry requirement. Some workers start as helpers or laborers and move up.
Many mines require a commercial driver's license (CDL) to operate heavy trucks on site. Safety training and a clean drug test are almost always mandatory. Depending on the state, you may need a specific mining certification or a license for mobile equipment. The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) offers required training for anyone working at a surface mine.
Experience on heavy equipment—bulldozers, front-end loaders, excavators—matters more than formal education. Some community colleges offer short certificate programs in heavy equipment operation, but they're not required.
- Get a high school diploma or GED.
- Obtain a CDL (commercial driver's license) if required.
- Complete MSHA Part 48 new miner training.
- Look for entry-level helper or laborer positions at mines.
- Gain hands-on experience with excavators, loaders, and draglines.
Job outlook
Employment is projected to decline slightly: -0.4% from 2024 to 2034. That's essentially flat. However, because of retirements and workers leaving the occupation, about 3,100 openings are expected each year on average over the decade. That means some opportunities will exist, but competition may be strong in areas where mining is stable.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary range for excavating and loading machine operators in surface mining?
The typical range is $41,600 to $82,400 per year, with a median of $57,430.
What education do I need to become an excavating and loading machine operator?
A high school diploma is typically required. On-the-job training, a CDL, and MSHA safety training are the main steps.
Is the job outlook for this occupation good?
No. The BLS projects a -0.4% decline over the next decade, meaning the number of jobs is expected to shrink slightly.
Which state pays the highest wages for this job?
North Dakota, with an average annual wage of $90,380, is the highest-paying state.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining data.