Underground Mining Machine Operators, All Other: Salary $70,130, a declining field with ~400 openings a year
The median salary for Underground Mining Machine Operators, All Other is $70,130 per year, according to the latest BLS data. That works out to roughly $34 an hour, with typical earnings ranging from $49,020 at the 10th percentile to $85,010 at the 90th. The occupation employs about 3,180 people nationally.
Don't let the "All Other" label fool you — this is a specific, skilled role operating machinery like continuous miners, roof bolters, or shuttle cars in underground mines. It's physical, often remote, and pays well relative to education requirements. But the BLS projects a 6.1% decline in employment from 2024 to 2034, so this is a shrinking field.
How much Underground Mining Machine Operators, All Other earn
Pay clusters around $70,130, with half of workers earning between the 25th percentile ($61,840) and the 75th percentile ($78,740). The top 10% can pull in $85,010 or more. Mean annual wage is $69,860, or about $33.59 per hour.
- Median annual wage: $70,130
- 10th percentile: $49,020
- 90th percentile: $85,010
- Mean hourly wage: $33.59
Pay by state
Location matters a lot. Alaska tops the list at $106,840 — nearly $37,000 above the national median. Montana ($84,410), Minnesota ($83,120), Illinois ($72,800), and Utah ($67,200) also pay above the median. On the lower end, Virginia ($61,990), Nevada ($59,810), and Pennsylvania ($54,480) lag behind.
- Highest: Alaska ($106,840), Montana ($84,410), Minnesota ($83,120), Illinois ($72,800), Utah ($67,200)
- Lowest: Virginia ($61,990), Nevada ($59,810), Pennsylvania ($54,480)
How to become Underground Mining Machine Operators, All Other
Most operators learn on the job or through a formal apprenticeship. No college degree is required, though a high school diploma or equivalent is standard. You'll typically start as a helper or laborer, then move into operating machinery under supervision.
- Complete high school or GED.
- Apply for entry-level positions at mining companies.
- Complete on-the-job training (often 1-4 years to become fully skilled).
- Earn required safety certifications: MSHA Part 48 training is mandatory for underground mining.
- Consider a formal apprenticeship program through the Mine Safety and Health Administration or industry unions.
Job outlook
The BLS projects a 6.1 percent decline in employment from 2024 to 2034, a decrease of about 200 jobs. Despite the decline, about 400 openings per year are expected to arise from workers retiring or leaving the occupation. Automation and shifts in energy production are the main factors behind the shrinking workforce.
Frequently asked questions
What does an Underground Mining Machine Operator, All Other do?
Operate specialized machinery like continuous miners, roof bolters, shuttle cars, or other equipment in underground mines to extract coal, ore, or minerals. Tasks include drilling, bolting, loading, and hauling materials.
Is the job dangerous?
Underground mining is one of the most hazardous occupations. Workers face risks from cave-ins, explosions, equipment accidents, and respiratory hazards. Strict safety protocols and MSHA training are mandatory.
What is the highest-paying state for this job?
Alaska pays the most at $106,840 per year, followed by Montana ($84,410) and Minnesota ($83,120).
Do I need a college degree?
No. A high school diploma and on-the-job training are typical. Many employers offer apprenticeships. MSHA safety certification is required.
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 Underground Mining Machine Operators, All Other data.