Loading and Moving Machine Operators, Underground Mining: Salary $74,500, Outlook -22%
The median salary for Loading and Moving Machine Operators in underground mining was $74,500 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to about $36 per hour, though the typical range runs from $52,030 at the 10th percentile to $87,730 at the 90th. The mean annual wage across all workers is $71,240. But the career faces a steep projected decline of 22.3% over the next decade, with only about 500 openings each year expected to replace those who leave or retire.
How much Loading and Moving Machine Operators, Underground Mining earn
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that underground mining machine operators earned a national mean wage of $71,240 per year as of May 2024. The median — the point where half earn more and half earn less — was $74,500. That puts the occupation well above the national median for all jobs, which was about $48,060 in 2023.
The bottom 10% of operators earned $52,030 or less, while the top 10% brought home $87,730 or more. Earnings tend to increase with experience and in higher-cost mining regions. Union representation is common in this field, which can boost pay and benefits.
Pay also depends on the type of mine and the specific machine operated. Continuous mining machine operators, for example, often earn differently than shuttle car operators, but BLS groups them together under this single occupation. Overtime is frequent, especially during production pushes, and can push total compensation well above base rates.
Pay by state
Where you work makes a big difference. The highest-paying state for underground mining machine operators is Wyoming, with an average annual wage of $112,110. Alaska follows at $93,130, then Nevada at $82,920, South Carolina at $80,480, and Colorado at $79,150. These states tend to have large-scale coal, trona, or precious-metal mines.
On the low end, Iowa pays $48,490 on average, Texas $47,310, and Oklahoma $44,760. Those states have fewer underground mining operations and rely more on surface mining, which uses different job classifications. The BLS data covers only "Loading and Moving Machine Operators, Underground Mining," so low-paying states may have just a handful of workers in that specific role.
How to become Loading and Moving Machine Operators, Underground Mining
Most entry-level operators start with a high school diploma or equivalent. No college degree is required, but employers look for mechanical aptitude and physical stamina. The typical path is on-the-job training, often paired with a formal apprenticeship or a company-sponsored training program that can last several months.
Many states and mining companies require certification in mine safety, such as the MSHA Part 48 New Miner Training (24 hours of instruction, plus annual refreshers). Some operators also obtain a commercial driver's license with a hazmat or tanker endorsement for certain vehicle operations.
- Earn a high school diploma or GED.
- Complete MSHA Part 48 New Miner Training (required by federal law for underground mines).
- Get hired as a trainee or apprentice; on-the-job training typically lasts 6–12 months.
- Obtain additional certifications (e.g., CDL, specific equipment operation) to increase pay and mobility.
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment for Loading and Moving Machine Operators, Underground Mining will decline 22.3% from 2024 to 2034, a much faster drop than the average for all occupations (which is about 4% growth). The main driver is automation and increased use of surface mining methods, which require fewer underground machine operators.
Despite the sharp percentage decline, annual openings are estimated at about 500 per year. Most of those come from the need to replace workers who retire, transfer, or leave the occupation. This means that competition for jobs will remain moderate in traditional mining states, but opportunities will shrink over time.
Frequently asked questions
What is the median salary for Loading and Moving Machine Operators, Underground Mining?
The median annual salary is $74,500, according to the latest BLS data. The mean wage is $71,240.
Which states pay the most for this job?
Wyoming leads at $112,110, followed by Alaska ($93,130), Nevada ($82,920), South Carolina ($80,480), and Colorado ($79,150).
Is the job outlook good for underground mining machine operators?
No — employment is projected to decline 22.3% from 2024 to 2034, though about 500 openings per year will exist due to turnover.
What education is needed to become an underground mining machine operator?
A high school diploma is the typical entry requirement, followed by on-the-job training and MSHA safety certification.
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 Loading and Moving Machine Operators, Underground Mining data.