Continuous Mining Machine Operators
O*NET 47-5041.00 · SOC 47-5041
Continuous Mining Machine Operator is a solid career choice. Median pay is $62k a year with +3.2% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 1,400 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Operate continuous mining machines to cut coal or ore
- →Position cutting heads against mine walls or ceilings
- →Monitor machine gauges and controls during mining operations
- →Communicate with crew members using hand signals or intercoms
- →Clear jammed material from conveyor belts and machine parts
Education & How to Get In
Continuous Mining Machine Operator roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths, you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Continuous Mining Machine Operator involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Continuous Mining Machine Operator?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Continuous Mining Machine Operator Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Continuous Mining Machine Operators is projected to grow 3.2% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·40% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·47% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
- ·Industry sector with low automation exposure
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Continuous Mining Machine Operator make?
The median Continuous Mining Machine Operator earns $62k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Continuous Mining Machine Operator jobs?
Our model puts Continuous Mining Machine Operator at 43 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 40% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 47% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Continuous Mining Machine Operator a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 3.2% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 1,400 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Continuous Mining Machine Operator?
Most Continuous Mining Machine Operator roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.
How long does it take to become a Continuous Mining Machine Operator?
Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Continuous Mining Machine Operator career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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