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Mining industry opportunities for someone new

Anon User

New member
Joined
Sep 18, 2025
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I've spent the last few years in oilfield construction down in Louisiana, running forklifts and helping with rig sites and I'm ready to move into the mining industry. A friend of mine out of high school went to Alaska for mining and said the pay was strong even at entry level but I don't know what's realistic now. Do mines still offer relocation or housing help and would it make sense to get MSHA certified before applying?
 
Alaska mines still provide housing or a housing stipend, for entry level roles I think and your pay depends on the site and the role
 
I'm still checking if MSHA is needed before applying or if sites train on arrival. If I start paperwork next week, I could be ready to move by late October. Does that timing line up with seasonal hiring windows?
 
I suggest you get your MSHA paperwork started now and hit those job boards in October!
While companies can train you, having your card makes you a day 1 hire and dramatically increases your chances.
October is also a great timing!
Many Alaska operations run year-round and ramp up hiring in the fall to fill spots for the winter season after summer workers cycle out.
 
I’ll get the MSHA paperwork started now. For entry-level spots in Alaska, do most sites prefer the 24-hour surface card or is the 40-hour underground version worth doing upfront?
 
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