We are seeking an experienced, safety-focused mining professional to serve as a Certified MSHA Part 48 Underground/Surface and WVMHS&T Coal Mining Instructor. This position is based out of Moundsville, WV.
The federal and state mandated courses prepare entry-level individuals ("Red-hat” Miners) and (Experienced Miners) for safe entry into underground/surface coal mining operations. The instructor will deliver comprehensive classroom instruction, hands-on practical training, and prepare students to pass the required state examination administered by the WV Office of Miners' Health, Safety and Training (WVMHST) and annually retrain others. Emphasis is placed on federal (MSHA) and state (WVMHST) mining laws, hazard recognition, mine ventilation, roof/rib control, WV response, and safe underground work practices.
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Plan, prepare, and deliver the full 80-hour curriculum as approved by the WV Office of Miners' Health, Safety and Training.
- Instruct MSHA Part 48 Underground and Surface Annual Retraining as needed.
- Instruct WV Diesel Initial Operator and WV Diesel Mechanic required courses.
- Instruct WV Foreman Continuing Education required courses.
- Teach core topics including (but not limited to): mine health and safety laws, hazard identification, methane/ventilation monitoring, roof control/ground control, first aid/CPR, mine map reading, escapeways/emergency evacuation, personal protective equipment, electrical safety, explosives handling basics, dust control, and underground mining methods.
- Conduct hands-on demonstrations and practical training in simulated mine environments (where available).
- Maintain accurate attendance records, training rosters, and documentation required by MHST regulations.
- Administer practice assessments and prepare students for the state apprentice miner certification exam (written and practical components).
- Ensure all training complies with WV Code, MHST rules (including Series 48 CSR), and MSHA Part 48 standards.
- Foster a strong safety culture and promote zero-incident mindset among trainees.
- Submit required paperwork (rosters, attendance, certifications) to MHST in a timely manner.
- Stay current with updates to mining laws, regulations, technology, and best practices through continuing education.
- Collaborate with other instructors, program coordinators, and mining industry partners.
EXPERIENCE:
- Demonstrated knowledge of underground coal mining methods, ventilation, roof control, dangerous gases, and WV/MSHA safety regulations.
- Strong understanding of hazard recognition, risk assessment, and emergency response procedures in underground coal environments.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills; ability to explain complex technical concepts to adult learners with varying experience levels.
- Commitment to safety-first principles and adult education best practices.
- Minimum of 5 years of practical underground coal mining experience with at least 2 years in West Virginia mines, preferred.
JOB REQUIREMENTS
- MSHA Part 48 Instructor Underground and Surface Certification Required
- Must be approved or eligible for approval by the West Virginia Office of Miners' Health, Safety and Training (MHST) as an 80-Hour Underground Apprentice Miner Instructor.
- Knowledge of MSHA and West Virginia mining regulations.
- Computer Skills – Knowledge of Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel
- Hold a valid West Virginia Mine Foreman/West Virginia Asst. Mine Foreman Certification (preferred/strongly desired; often required for instructor approval).
- Overall Understanding of Underground and Surface Coal Operations
- High school diploma or GED required
- Associate or Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering, Occupational Safety, Education, or related field preferred
- Regular and punctual attendance
- Reliable transportation
- Must be able to work safely and effectively as part of a team or independently
- Must be able to successfully pass a post offer drug test and background check
- Physically able to perform demonstrations in training settings (including simulated mine environments)
- Ability to work in the United States without sponsorship
JOB SCHEDULE AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS
- Must be able to work overtime, weekends and holidays as schedule requires (subject to applicant’s religious practices)
- Work environment is on or above the surface
- Ability to lift floor-to-waist and waist-to-overhead
- Ability to push/pull as needed
- Standing, bending, step climbing, crawling and working overhead
Benefits
- 401k with 6% employer match for eligible employees
- Employee Savings Plans for eligible employees
- Comprehensive medical, dental, vision & Rx benefits
- Basic Life/ADD Insurance; optional Term Life, Accidental Life Insurance
- Additional Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity and Accident Insurance benefits for eligible employees
- Short and Long-Term Disability benefits for eligible employees
- 100% employer paid apprentice miner training
- Monthly & annual bonus plans for eligible employees
- Paid holidays & up to 4 weeks paid vacation
