Shigoto Zukan
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How to become continuous mining machine operatorseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter

United States Construction Confidence ★★★★★

Median annual pay
$61,810
25th–75th pct. $51,610–$77,570
Top pay (est.)
$112,100
Top 10% $86,210
Pay in 5 years
$72,600est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$85,300est.
$73,400–$99,000
Outlook score
61/100
★★★☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
8%
Very low
Job growth (10 yr)
+3.2%
1,400 openings / yr

How to become continuous mining machine operators

Typical education
No formal educational credential
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
Moderate-term on-the-job training

A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.

Skills, education and requirements for Continuous Mining Machine Operators

Key skills

Operations Monitoring
3.9
Operation and Control
3.6
Equipment Maintenance
3.4
Critical Thinking
3.1
Coordination
3.0
Troubleshooting
3.0
Complex Problem Solving
3.0
Repairing
3.0

O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).

Key knowledge areas

Mechanical
4.7
Education and Training
3.9
Production and Processing
3.7
Law and Government
3.4
Transportation
3.0
Mathematics
2.8
Administration and Management
2.8
Public Safety and Security
2.7

What the work involves

Controlling Machines and ProcessesMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsHandling and Moving ObjectsOperating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or EquipmentRepairing and Maintaining Mechanical EquipmentInspecting Equipment, Structures, or MaterialsPerforming General Physical ActivitiesCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates

Important abilities

Reaction TimeControl PrecisionAuditory AttentionMultilimb CoordinationProblem SensitivityFar Vision

Education of workers

High school diploma
81%
Post-secondary certificate
10%
Some college
5%
Less than high school
4%

Training before entry

Up to 1 month
39%
6–12 months
26%
1–2 years
15%
1–3 months
11%
3–6 months
5%
None / short demo
4%

Related work experience

1–2 years
41%
6–12 months
18%
None
15%
3–6 months
9%
2–4 years
8%
1–3 months
7%
4–6 years
3%

Job Zone 2 — some preparation needed (O*NET)

Difficulty of entry: ★☆☆☆☆ Easy to enter (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)

Career path and how to earn more as continuous mining machine operators

Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.

Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.