Day in the life
A Day in the Life of an Underground Mining Loader Operator
What underground mining loader operators actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for an underground mining loader operator?
Ride in. From there, the day usually includes operate loaders, load ore or coal, and run shuttle cars. Long rotating shifts.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for an underground mining loader operator working full time.
- Ride in.
- Pre-op the LHD.
- Muck the heading.
- Dump at the ore pass.
- Lunch underground.
- Clean up the drift.
- Ride out.
Where underground mining loader operators work
Operators work underground in mines.
Hours and schedule
Long rotating shifts.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Operate loaders
- Load ore or coal
- Run shuttle cars
- Clean up spills
- Inspect equipment
- Follow ventilation rules
- Communicate underground
Tools you’ll use every day
- LHD loaders
- Shuttle cars
- Scoops
- Radios
- Gas detectors
- Cap lamps
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Good pay
- No degree needed
- Big machines
- Overtime
What’s hard
- Steep decline
- Underground hazards
- Dust and noise
- Long shifts
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I can work underground
- I like machines
- I stay focused
- I care about safety
- I can work long shifts
- I want mining pay
Not sure? Take the free Underground Mining Loader Operator fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Follow MSHA rules
- Watch for pedestrians
- Check gas
- Wear self-rescuers