Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Mining Machine Operator
What mining machine operators actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
Check in, get your cap lamp and rescuer. From there, the day usually includes operate continuous mining machines, cut coal, ore or rock at the face, and load material onto conveyors or cars. Mines often run multiple shifts, including nights and weekends, with overtime.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a mining machine operator working full time.
- Check in, get your cap lamp and rescuer.
- Ride the mantrip to the working section.
- Inspect the continuous miner and change worn bits.
- Cut coal at the face following the plan.
- Hold position while bolters secure the roof.
- Resume cutting and monitor methane.
- Ride out and report at the surface.
Where mining machine operators work
Operators work underground in dark, dusty, noisy mines with limited space.
Hours and schedule
Mines often run multiple shifts, including nights and weekends, with overtime.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Operate continuous mining machines
- Cut coal, ore or rock at the face
- Load material onto conveyors or cars
- Follow roof control and ventilation plans
- Inspect and maintain equipment
- Change cutting bits
- Follow mine safety rules
Tools you’ll use every day
- Continuous miners
- Shuttle cars
- Roof bolters
- Methane detectors
- Self-rescuers
- Cap lamps
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Good pay without a degree
- Strong teamwork culture
- Paid training
- Overtime
What’s hard
- Hazardous underground work
- Dust and noise
- Shift work
- Industry ups and downs
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I want good pay without a degree
- I can handle tough conditions
- I like running machines
- I value teamwork
- I take safety seriously
- I don’t mind shift work
Not sure? Take the free Mining Machine Operator fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Never go under unsupported roof
- Monitor methane and ventilation
- Lock out before maintenance
- Carry and know your self-rescuer