Chief Operating Officer – Coal Mining

Chief Operating Officer – Coal Mining

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On-Site in Hazleton, PA About the Opportunity A privately held surface anthracite producer with a 150-person workforce and a 60-year reserve base is modernizing its Pennsylvania operations and expanding premium product lines that feed steel and energy markets worldwide. The company is seeking a decisive, hands-on Chief Operating Officer to translate board-level growth strategy into safely executed tonnage, industry-leading cost performance, and robust community partnerships. Reporting directly to the President, you will steer pit-to-plant execution, elevate safety and environmental stewardship, and mentor a high-caliber technical team poised for the next stage of innovation. Key Outcomes & Responsibilities Drive the vision –

convert corporate strategy into production, safety, and financial targets that lift EBITDA and extend reserve life. Optimize pit-to-plant flow –

direct surface mining, haulage, and preparation plant throughput to hit daily ROM, yield, and quality KPIs. Engineer cost leadership –

refine equipment scheduling, asset-health programs, and maintenance analytics to keep cost-per-ton below budget. Champion zero-incident culture –

embed proactive risk management and MSHA best practices across all crews, contractors, and visitors. Safeguard the environment –

oversee permitting, reclamation, and water-management plans that exceed state and federal standards. Own the P&L –

construct and manage operating and capital budgets, vendor contracts, and supply-chain logistics for maximum ROI. Leverage data –

deploy real-time dashboards to uncover bottlenecks, recover lost tonnage, and guide capital allocation. Develop leaders –

coach mine, plant, maintenance, engineering, and safety managers, building a strong succession bench. Represent the business –

serve as primary liaison to regulators, community stakeholders, major customers, and the board. Required Background Bachelor’s degree in mining engineering, Business Administration, or related discipline. 10+ years of progressive leadership in surface coal mining, including 5+ years in a senior site-wide or corporate operations role. Deep knowledge of coal preparation, mobile & fixed plant maintenance, and MSHA compliance. Proven track record in budgeting, asset optimization, and data-driven continuous improvement. Exceptional communication and stakeholder-management skills. Preferred Extras MBA or similar advanced degree. Lean / Six Sigma or equivalent process-improvement certification. Experience leading reclamation or large-scale environmental projects. What’s in It for You Competitive executive compensation package with annual bonus tied to production, safety, and cost metrics. 401(k) with company match, full medical / dental / vision, and relocation assistance. Direct line of sight to the board and the opportunity to shape the long-term strategic direction of a growing coal enterprise. High-impact role where your leadership will drive operational excellence, community value, and employee safety. About Blue Signal: Blue Signal is an award-winning, executive search firm specializing in various specialties. Our recruiters have a proven track record of placing top-tier talent across industry verticals, with deep expertise in numerous professional services. Learn more at

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