Coal Miners

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, continuous mining machine operators (CMMOs), a specialized coal mining occupation, employed in the coal mining industry had mean annual earnings of $68,360 in 2023. Those with considerable experience can receive even higher earnings. The top 10 percent of all CMMOs earned $80,840 annually, and the lowest 10 percent earned $40,120 per year. Underground mining machine operators in the coal mining industry had mean annual earnings of $64,300.

The National Mining Association reported that the average annual salary for a coal miner was $109,609 in 2024. It reports the following average salaries for coal mining workers by specialty:

• explosive workers: $75,700
• conveyor operators and tenders: $63,930
• extraction workers: $65,760

Among coal miners, earnings vary according to experience and the type of mine where the miner works. Highest paid are seasoned workers in deep underground mines.

Coal miners at strip and auger mines are paid slightly less. At the low end, utility workers and unskilled laborers at coal preparation plants earn the least. Unionized workers typically earn higher salaries than coal miners who are not members of a union.

These figures do not include overtime or incentive pay. Miners get time and a half or double time for overtime hours. Coal miners who work evening and night shifts typically receive slightly higher wages.

Most coal miners also receive health and life insurance, as well as pension benefits. The insurance generally includes hospitalization, surgery, convalescent care, rehabilitation services, and maternity benefits for the workers and their dependents. The pension size depends on the worker's age at retirement and the number of years of service.

In addition, most mine workers are given 11 holidays a year in addition to vacation days earned according to length of service.