Quick Answer

Yes, Drummond Company hires people with felony convictions case-by-case. As one of Alabama's largest private employers operating coal mines in central Alabama, Drummond offers high-paying mining employment:

• Underground Coal Miner: $25-40/hour (mining operations, coal production)

• Heavy Equipment Operator: $24-38/hour (operating mining equipment, dozers, loaders)

• Mine Laborer / General Labor: $22-32/hour (entry-level mining support work)

• Mine Maintenance Mechanic: $28-45/hour (repairing mining equipment, skilled trade)

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Career Path: Mine Laborer → Equipment Operator → Miner ($50k-$90k/year)

Table of Contents

1. Quick Answer

2. About Drummond Company

3. Does Drummond Company Hire People with Felonies?

4. Drummond Company Jobs for People with Felonies (2025)

5. Drummond Company Background Check: What to Expect

6. How to Get Hired at Drummond Company with a Felony (Step-by-Step)

7. Frequently Asked Questions

8. Similar Coal Mining & Heavy Industry Companies

9. Final Thoughts

About Drummond Company

Drummond Company operates as one of the largest privately-held coal producers in the United States with coal mining operations in central Alabama (Walker County, Tuscaloosa County areas) including underground mines, surface mines, coal preparation plants, and port facilities, employing approximately 2,500 workers in Alabama mining operations. Drummond produces metallurgical coal for steel manufacturing and steam coal for power generation. As a major coal mining employer, Drummond offers accessible employment for people with criminal records due to critical skilled labor shortage in coal mining industry nationwide, high-paying mining work ($50,000-$90,000+ annually with extensive overtime), behind-the-scenes mining operations in rural central Alabama, physical demanding underground and surface mining work, case-by-case hiring evaluation, union representation (United Mine Workers), and clear advancement pathways from entry-level laborer to equipment operator to miner over 2-5 years in 2025.

Why Drummond Company Is Accessible for Felons:

1. Critical mining labor shortage - Coal industry faces severe shortage of workers willing to do mining

2. Extremely high wages - Mine Laborer $22-32/hr, Underground Miner $25-40/hr, Maintenance $28-45/hr

3. Extensive overtime - 50-60 hour weeks common earning 1.5x pay, annual $60k-$90k+ realistic

4. Rural Alabama operations - Central Alabama coal fields (Walker, Tuscaloosa counties, small towns)

5. Behind-the-scenes mining - Underground and surface coal mines, preparation plants

6. Physical demanding work - Underground mining, heavy equipment, extreme conditions reduce applicants

7. Union representation - United Mine Workers of America provides job protections

8. Case-by-case evaluation - Mining values physical capability and reliability over backgrounds

9. Entry-level accessible - Mine Laborer positions lead to equipment operator and miner advancement

10. Career pathway - Laborer ($22-32/hr) → Operator ($24-38/hr) → Miner ($25-40/hr) over 3-5 years

Does Drummond Company Hire People with Felonies?

Drummond Hiring Approach (2025): Drummond Company evaluates applicants with criminal records case-by-case following coal mining industry standards that prioritize safety consciousness, physical capability, reliability, and work ethic over criminal backgrounds for mining and support positions. Drummond faces critical labor shortage affecting entire coal mining industry—young workers reluctant to enter mining, experienced miners retiring, creating desperate hiring needs. Mining managers have significant hiring discretion, particularly for entry-level mine laborer and general labor positions where candidates demonstrate physical capability and commitment to mining work. Many people with various felonies work successfully at Drummond coal mines—mining industry values hard work, showing up reliably in dangerous conditions, physical strength and endurance, and commitment to safety over past convictions. Violence, sabotage, and drug trafficking face most scrutiny due to mine safety concerns, but case-by-case evaluation considers time, circumstances, and rehabilitation demonstrated in 2025.

What Drummond Considers:

• Safety consciousness (CRITICAL in underground mining with explosion and collapse risks)

• Physical capability for extremely demanding work (underground mining, heavy equipment, long shifts)

• Reliability and attendance (mine operations continuous, understaffing creates safety hazards)

• Time since conviction (2-5+ years better but flexible for mining labor shortage)

• Nature of conviction (sabotage extreme concern, violence scrutinized, drugs evaluated carefully)

• Position type (mine laborer most accessible, equipment operator needs skills, maintenance specialized)

• Willingness to work underground (claustrophobia concern, not everyone can handle underground work)

• Mining or heavy industry experience helpful (construction, military, manufacturing backgrounds)

Most Accessible Drummond Positions: Mine Laborer, General Labor (surface operations), Equipment Operator Trainee, Preparation Plant Worker, Warehouse Worker

What Convictions Are Accepted: Non-violent felonies (widely acceptable for mining positions), drug convictions if time elapsed (2-5+ years) and sobriety maintained (mining has strict drug testing), property crimes, theft depending on circumstances (case-by-case), assault based on context and timeframe, DUI/traffic violations (acceptable for non-driving positions), older convictions with demonstrated rehabilitation

What Faces Significant Scrutiny: Sabotage or destruction of property (EXTREME safety concern in underground mines—likely automatic disqualification), arson (fire/explosion hazard in coal mining), drug trafficking (mines have zero-tolerance drug policies, but old trafficking may be considered case-by-case), recent violence within 1-2 years (workplace safety with dangerous equipment), active warrants

Drummond Application Strategy: Apply at drummondco.com/careers or visit Drummond mine offices in central Alabama (Jasper, Tuscaloosa areas). Target Mine Laborer or General Labor positions (most accessible entry requiring limited mining experience). Emphasize physical capability, safety consciousness, and reliability. "I'm physically capable of underground mining work, understand safety is critical, and I'm reliable in demanding conditions" resonates with mining managers facing labor shortage. Show willingness to work extensive overtime (50-60 hours weekly earning $60k-$90k+). Apply in person if possible—mining culture values face-to-face interaction. Consider mining industry broadly—coal mines nationally face identical labor shortage with high accessibility.

Drummond Company Jobs for People with Felonies (2025)

1. Mine Laborer / General Labor (Surface) Pay: $22-32/hour ($46,000-$67,000/year) + extensive overtime potential Working at Drummond surface mining operations and support facilities performing general labor, assisting equipment operators and miners, moving materials and supplies, cleaning and maintaining work areas, operating hand tools and basic equipment, supporting coal production operations, working 10-12 hour shifts (overtime common), learning mining operations and safety procedures, physically demanding outdoor work in Alabama heat and cold. Why MOST Accessible: Entry-level mining position requiring LIMITED experience (physical capability and willingness to work matters most), straightforward labor supporting coal mining operations, behind-the-scenes surface mining and support work, extremely physically demanding work (outdoor heat/cold, heavy lifting, long shifts) reduces applicant competition dramatically, high wages even for entry labor ($22-32/hour, $46k-$67k base), extensive overtime opportunities (50-60 hour weeks common, time-and-a-half after 40 hours earning $60k-$85k+ annually), prove physical capability and reliability over 6-12 months to advance to equipment operator or underground miner earning $24-40/hour, easiest Drummond entry for people with criminal records, mining labor shortage creates hiring urgency.
   

2. Underground Coal Miner / Continuous Miner Operator Pay: $25-40/hour ($52,000-$83,000/year) + extensive overtime to $75,000-$110,000+ Working underground in Drummond coal mines operating continuous mining machines extracting coal, operating roof bolting equipment securing mine roof, shuttle car operation transporting coal underground, conducting mining operations safely following strict safety protocols, working in confined underground spaces (4-6 feet high seams typical), wearing personal protective equipment and self-contained breathing apparatus, working 10-12 hour shifts underground, coordinating with mining crew on production. Requirements: Typically 1-2 years mining experience (advanced from mine laborer), completion of MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration) training, physical capability for underground work (no claustrophobia), ability to work in extreme conditions (heat, humidity, dust, confined spaces), strong safety consciousness. Why Accessible (With Experience): Highest-paid mining position ($25-40/hour base, $75k-$110k+ with extensive overtime), CRITICAL shortage of underground miners nationwide (young workers won't enter underground mining), physical capability and safety consciousness valued FAR more than criminal background once trained, behind-the-scenes underground coal extraction, essential to coal production, union protection (United Mine Workers at Drummond), criminal record does NOT prevent underground miner advancement with proven safety performance and reliability over time, many underground miners started with criminal records.
   

3. Heavy Equipment Operator (Surface Mining) Pay: $24-38/hour ($50,000-$79,000/year) + significant overtime Operating heavy mining equipment at Drummond surface mining operations including bulldozers, front-end loaders, excavators, haul trucks, graders, and draglines, moving overburden and coal, loading coal trucks, maintaining surface mine areas, conducting equipment inspections and basic maintenance, following mine safety procedures, working 10-12 hour shifts with overtime. Requirements: Heavy equipment operation experience (construction, mining, military backgrounds valued), ability to operate multiple types of equipment (cross-training provided by Drummond), equipment operator certification helpful, safety consciousness with large machinery. Why Accessible: Specialized equipment operation skill in high demand, heavy equipment operators critically short in mining industry, behind-the-scenes surface mining operations, technical equipment operation ability valued over background, higher pay than general labor ($24-38/hr vs $22-32/hr), extensive overtime opportunities, advance to lead operator or mining supervisor, case-by-case evaluation prioritizing equipment skills and safety record, many mining equipment operators have criminal records and successful careers.
   

4. Mine Maintenance Mechanic / Heavy Equipment Mechanic Pay: $28-45/hour ($58,000-$94,000/year) + overtime to $80,000-$130,000+ Maintaining and repairing Drummond mining equipment including continuous miners, roof bolters, shuttle cars, scoops, bulldozers, haul trucks, and surface mining machinery, troubleshooting mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic issues, conducting preventive maintenance, welding and fabricating repairs, minimizing equipment downtime (critical to mining production), working underground and surface maintaining equipment fleet, ensuring mining equipment meets safety standards. Requirements: Industrial maintenance experience or mining mechanic training, mechanical and hydraulic troubleshooting skills, welding ability highly valued, ability to work on heavy mining equipment, willingness to work underground for equipment repairs. Why Accessible: CRITICAL shortage of mining mechanics nationwide, technical mechanical skills valued INFINITELY more than criminal background, behind-the-scenes equipment repair work, essential to mine operations (equipment failures stop production costing thousands per hour), highest mining maintenance pay ($28-45/hour base, $80k-$130k+ with overtime), advance to maintenance supervisor or mine engineer, case-by-case evaluation heavily prioritizing mechanical ability, mining industry desperate for qualified mechanics with records welcomed.
   

5. Coal Preparation Plant Operator Pay: $23-35/hour ($48,000-$73,000/year) + overtime Operating equipment at Drummond coal preparation plants processing and cleaning mined coal, monitoring crushers, screens, washing equipment, and processing systems, conducting quality checks on coal products, maintaining plant equipment and areas, following safety and environmental procedures, working rotating shifts (days/nights), coordinating coal shipments and loadouts. Requirements: Mechanical aptitude, ability to operate coal processing equipment (training provided by Drummond), attention to quality control and processes, physical capability for plant operations. Why Accessible: Coal processing plant operations separate from underground mining (less physically demanding, alternative pathway), behind-the-scenes coal processing and quality control, mechanical equipment operation skills developed through Drummond training, essential to coal product quality and customer specifications, advance to plant supervisor or quality coordinator, case-by-case evaluation with reliability and mechanical aptitude valued, preparation plant work accessible entry into mining industry.
   

6. Shuttle Car Operator (Underground) Pay: $24-38/hour ($50,000-$79,000/year) + overtime Operating underground shuttle cars transporting coal from continuous mining machines to belt conveyor systems, driving battery-powered shuttle cars in confined underground mine spaces, coordinating with continuous miner operators on coal transport, maintaining shuttle car equipment, working underground in low-seam coal mines, following strict underground safety protocols. Requirements: Underground mining experience (typically advanced from mine laborer), shuttle car operation training (provided by Drummond), ability to work underground in confined spaces, spatial awareness operating equipment in darkness, MSHA certification. Why Accessible: Specialized underground equipment operation, critical to underground coal production, technical skills learned through Drummond training programs, high pay for equipment operation ($24-38/hr), behind-the-scenes underground coal transport, advance to continuous miner operator or mine foreman, case-by-case evaluation with safe equipment operation prioritized over background.
   

7. Roof Bolter / Ground Control Pay: $25-38/hour ($52,000-$79,000/year) + overtime Operating roof bolting machines installing roof support systems in underground coal mines, drilling and installing rock bolts securing mine roof to prevent collapses, working immediately behind continuous miner advance, conducting ground control procedures following mine plan, working in most dangerous underground mining area (active face), critical mine safety role preventing roof falls. Requirements: Underground mining experience, roof bolter training and certification (Drummond provides), strong safety consciousness (roof bolting most dangerous mining job), physical capability for underground work, ability to work under extreme pressure. Why Accessible: Critical underground position (every mine needs qualified roof bolters), most dangerous mining job (fewer applicants willing to do it), higher pay reflects risk and responsibility ($25-38/hr), technical roof bolting skills learned through comprehensive training, essential to mine safety operations, advance to ground control specialist or mine engineer, case-by-case evaluation with safety performance and reliability valued over background, mining will train roof bolters with records due to shortage.
   

8. 8. Warehouse / Parts Coordinator Pay: $19-28/hour ($40,000-$58,000/year) Working in Drummond mining warehouse managing parts and supplies inventory for mining operations, receiving and organizing mining parts and equipment, issuing parts to maintenance and production crews, maintaining inventory accuracy using computer systems, operating forklifts in warehouse, coordinating with vendors on mining supplies, supporting mine operations with timely parts availability. Requirements: Warehouse or inventory experience, forklift certification, computer skills for inventory management systems, organizational ability. Why Accessible: Behind-the-scenes mining warehouse operations, NO underground work required (alternative for those unable or unwilling to work underground), straightforward parts and inventory management, forklift operation, essential support to mining maintenance and operations, advance to warehouse supervisor or purchasing coordinator, case-by-case evaluation, warehouse position accessible entry into Drummond employment.
   

9. Mine Electrician Pay: $30-48/hour ($62,000-$100,000/year) + overtime to $90,000-$140,000+ Installing and maintaining electrical systems in Drummond mines including power distribution, mining equipment electrical systems, lighting, communication systems, maintaining high-voltage electrical infrastructure, troubleshooting electrical issues on mining equipment, ensuring electrical safety compliance, working underground and surface, completing electrical apprenticeship through United Mine Workers. Requirements: Electrical background or mining electrician apprenticeship, electrical troubleshooting skills, high-voltage electrical knowledge, underground work capability, electrical certification. Why Accessible: Most specialized and highest-paid mining maintenance role ($30-48/hour base, often $90k-$140k+ with overtime), extreme shortage of mining electricians, electrical expertise valued exclusively over any background, essential to all mining operations (electrical systems power everything), behind-the-scenes technical electrical work, apprenticeship programs available through United Mine Workers union, advance to electrical supervisor or mine engineer with additional education.
   

10. Mine Foreman / Production Supervisor Pay: $60,000-$95,000/year salary + overtime potential Supervising underground or surface mining crews and shift operations, ensuring production targets and safety standards met, managing shift activities and staffing, training and developing mining employees, troubleshooting production issues, coordinating with maintenance and other departments, enforcing safety procedures and MSHA compliance, responding to emergencies, reporting to mine superintendent. Requirements: Typically 5-10 years Drummond mining experience, proven technical competency and leadership, comprehensive knowledge of mining operations and safety, MSHA supervisory certifications, promoted from miner, operator, or mechanic positions. Why Accessible: Drummond promotes experienced reliable miners to supervision regardless of criminal background, technical expertise and safety leadership determine promotions NOT background, many current mine foremen and superintendents started as laborers with felony records and proved dedication and competency over 5-10 years through mining ranks, highest mining operations position available through performance-based advancement, union seniority protections, managing underground or surface mining shift operations.

Drummond Company Background Check: What to Expect

Background Check Process (2025): Drummond conducts background checks after conditional job offer. Background checks typically review 7-10 year criminal history. Drummond evaluates case-by-case considering time elapsed, nature of conviction, position requirements, safety implications for mining operations, and rehabilitation demonstrated. Sabotage faces extreme scrutiny or automatic disqualification (underground mine safety catastrophic concern). Violence scrutinized heavily but potentially acceptable with significant time and demonstrated rehabilitation. Mining labor shortage creates more accessible evaluation than many industries.

Timeline: 7-14 business days typical for Drummond mining positions. MSHA background checks required for certain positions.

What May Disqualify: Sabotage or destruction of property (automatic or near-automatic disqualification—underground mine safety), arson (explosion/fire hazard in coal mining), recent violence within 1-2 years (workplace safety with dangerous equipment and conditions), active warrants, extreme cases threatening mine safety

Drug Testing: Pre-employment drug testing REQUIRED for all Drummond mining positions in 2025 (safety-sensitive mining operations with heavy equipment, underground work, extreme hazards). Hair follicle testing commonly used (detects drugs 90 days). Random drug testing during employment standard per MSHA regulations. Zero-tolerance policy—positive test immediate termination. Must maintain complete sobriety for coal mining employment. Mining industry has strictest drug testing due to safety concerns. Focus on achieving sobriety before applying.

MSHA Training: All Drummond miners must complete MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration) mandated training: new miner training (40 hours minimum), annual refresher training (8 hours), task training for specific jobs. Drummond provides all required MSHA training.

How to Get Hired at Drummond Company with a Felony (Step-by-Step)

1. Apply at Drummond Mines In-Person Drive to Drummond mine offices in central Alabama (Jasper, Tuscaloosa County areas), walk into HR office, ask to apply for mine laborer positions. Bring ID and discuss physical work capability. Mining culture values in-person contact.
   

2. Target Mine Laborer FIRST

   Mine Laborer easiest Drummond entry—limited mining experience required, physical demanding work, behind-the-scenes operations. Prove physical capability and reliability over 6-12 months to advance to equipment operator or underground miner earning $24-40/hour.
   

3. Emphasize Physical Capability and Safety

   "I'm physically capable of extremely demanding mining work, understand mine safety is critical, and I'm reliable in dangerous conditions" EXACTLY what mining managers need to hear. Physical capability and safety consciousness matter infinitely more than background.
   

4. Show Willingness for Underground Work

   "I'm willing to work underground and can handle confined spaces" valuable. Underground miners earn most ($25-40/hr, $75k-$110k+ with OT). Not everyone can handle underground work—showing willingness increases opportunities significantly.
   

5. Highlight Heavy Industry Experience

   Any construction, military, heavy manufacturing, oil/gas, industrial, or equipment operation experience relevant. "I've worked in [heavy industry] and understand safety-critical dangerous work" demonstrates transferable skills.
   

6. Show Overtime Commitment

   "I'm available for extensive overtime—50-60 hour weeks—to maximize earnings" critical. Mining overtime opportunities massive (time-and-a-half). Workers earning $60k-$110k+ annually through overtime. Overtime willingness highly valued.
   

7. Pass Hair Follicle Drug Test

   Mining drug testing strict (hair follicle detects 90 days). Must be completely clean. Random testing ongoing per MSHA. Zero-tolerance. Focus on sobriety before applying to mining if cannot currently pass.
   

8. Be Honest About Criminal Background

   If asked: "I have [type] conviction from [year], completed requirements, focused on career in coal mining. I understand mine safety is paramount and I'm committed to following procedures and proving reliability."
   

9. Apply to Multiple Coal Mining Companies

   Don't limit to Drummond. Apply to all central Alabama coal mines and mining companies nationwide—entire coal industry faces identical labor shortage with similar accessibility and high wages ($50k-$100k+).
   

10. Consider Mining Industry Broadly

    Coal, metals, aggregates, industrial minerals—all mining faces labor shortage. Mining offers highest blue-collar wages nationwide ($50k-$130k with overtime) with accessible hiring for people with records willing to do demanding dangerous work.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Drummond Company hire convicted felons?

   Yes, Drummond hires people with felony convictions case-by-case in 2025. Coal mining labor shortage creates accessible hiring. Mine Laborer ($22-32/hr, $60k-$85k+ with OT), Underground Miner ($25-40/hr, $75k-$110k+ with OT), Equipment Operator ($24-38/hr), Maintenance Mechanic ($28-45/hr, $80k-$130k+ with OT). Non-violent felonies widely acceptable. Apply to Drummond central Alabama mines (Jasper, Tuscaloosa areas). Behind-the-scenes coal mining. Physical capability and safety consciousness matter—background evaluated individually. Mining industry broadly accessible with highest blue-collar wages.
   

2. Will Drummond Company hire me with a felony?

   Likely depending on conviction type, time elapsed, and position in 2025. Non-violent felonies widely acceptable for mining positions. Drug convictions acceptable if 2-5+ years and clean now (must pass strict hair follicle test). Sabotage extremely problematic (mine safety—likely disqualified). Violence scrutinized but case-by-case with time. Theft evaluated individually. Target Mine Laborer (most accessible). Physical capability critical—mining extremely demanding. Mining labor shortage increases accessibility. Highest wages ($50k-$110k+ with overtime) for people with records.
   

3. What is the most accessible Drummond Company position?

   Mine Laborer/General Labor at $22-32/hour ($46,000-$67,000/year) working at surface mining operations performing general labor, assisting equipment operators, moving materials, learning mining operations, extremely physically demanding outdoor work, limited mining experience required, extensive overtime opportunities (50-60 hour weeks common earning $60k-$85k+ annually), prove physical capability to advance to equipment operator ($24-38/hr) or underground miner ($25-40/hr) within 6-12 months, easiest Drummond entry for people with criminal records.
   

4. Can you work at Drummond with a violence conviction?

   Potentially case-by-case depending on violence circumstances and time elapsed in 2025. Violence faces scrutiny in mining due to workplace safety with dangerous equipment and conditions. Old violence (5-10+ years) with demonstrated rehabilitation may be considered for entry-level positions. Recent violence within 1-2 years very difficult. Mine safety paramount. Be honest, explain circumstances and rehabilitation. Mining values physical capability and reliability—violence with significant time may be acceptable.
   

5. How far back does Drummond Company background check go?

   Typically 7-10 years for criminal history in 2025. Some positions may require MSHA background checks which can be more comprehensive. Drummond evaluates case-by-case considering time elapsed, nature of conviction, position safety requirements, and rehabilitation. Older convictions (10+ years) more acceptable than recent. Sabotage scrutinized regardless of timeframe due to mine safety catastrophic concern. Mining labor shortage creates more accessible evaluation.
   

6. Does Drummond Company automatically reject felons?

   No, Drummond does not automatically reject people with felonies—case-by-case evaluation in 2025. Coal mining labor shortage creates hiring flexibility. Physical capability, safety consciousness, reliability, and work ethic matter most. Sabotage faces automatic or near-automatic disqualification (underground mine safety concern). Violence and drug trafficking scrutinized but not automatic rejection with time and rehabilitation. Technical skills for maintenance and equipment operation highly valued regardless of background.
   

7. Can you work at Drummond while on probation or parole?

   Yes if hired. Some Drummond miners manage probation/parole alongside employment in 2025. Mining shift schedules (10-12 hour shifts with overtime) structured. Be upfront about probation officer appointments after hired—may need to coordinate with supervision for underground work schedules. Stable high-wage mining employment ($46k-$110k+ depending on position with overtime) strongly demonstrates rehabilitation. Mining jobs increasingly common for people on supervision due to high wages and accessibility.
   

8. Does Drummond Company drug test?

   YES, pre-employment drug testing REQUIRED for all mining positions in 2025 (safety-sensitive operations with heavy equipment, underground work, extreme hazards). Hair follicle testing commonly used (detects drugs 90 days back). Random drug testing during employment mandatory per MSHA regulations. Zero-tolerance policy—positive test equals immediate termination. Must maintain complete sobriety for coal mining. Mining has strictest drug testing of any industry due to safety concerns. Focus on sobriety before applying.
   

9. Can felons advance at Drummond Company?

   Yes extensively regardless of criminal background in 2025. Many Mine Foremen and Production Supervisors ($60k-$95k) started as mine laborers with felony records and advanced through mining ranks over 5-10 years. Career path: Mine Laborer ($22-32/hr) → Equipment Operator ($24-38/hr) → Underground Miner ($25-40/hr, $75k-$110k+ with OT) → Foreman ($60k-$95k). Technical competency, safety performance, reliability determine promotions NOT background. Union seniority protections (United Mine Workers).
   

10. Is Drummond Company felon-friendly?

    Generally yes with case-by-case evaluation in 2025. Coal mining labor shortage creates accessible hiring. Mine Laborer ($22-32/hr, $60k-$85k+ with OT) entry point. Non-violent felonies widely acceptable. Sabotage extreme problem (likely disqualified due to mine safety). Behind-the-scenes coal mining operations. Highest blue-collar wages in Alabama ($50k-$130k with overtime). Physical demanding underground and surface mining. Union representation (UMWA) provides job protections. Apply to Drummond and other coal mines—entire industry faces labor shortage with similar accessibility.
    

11. What benefits does Drummond Company offer?

    Drummond offers mining industry benefits: health insurance (comprehensive medical, dental, vision), United Mine Workers union representation with job protections and seniority rights, pension and 401(k) retirement plans, paid time off and holidays, extensive overtime opportunities (10-12 hour shifts, 50-60 hour weeks common at 1.5x pay earning $60k-$130k+ annually depending on position), MSHA safety training and certifications, mining career advancement through experience, highest blue-collar wages in Alabama, and stable mining employment.
    

12. How long is Drummond Company hiring process?

    Drummond hiring process thorough for safety-critical mining in 2025. Entry-level: application (drummondco.com/careers or in-person at mine offices) → phone or in-person interview (2-3 weeks) → physical capability assessment → conditional offer → background check (7-14 days, MSHA checks for certain positions) → hair follicle drug test → MSHA new miner safety training (40 hours mandatory) → start (3-6 weeks total typical). Mining deliberately thorough for safety-sensitive positions. Labor shortage can expedite for qualified candidates.
    

Similar Coal Mining & Heavy Industry Companies

Coal Mining Companies (Similar High Wages & Accessibility):

• Consol Energy (Pennsylvania, West Virginia coal, $22-42/hr)

• Arch Resources (Western U.S. coal mining, $24-44/hr)

• Alliance Resource Partners (Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky coal, $22-40/hr)

• Alpha Metallurgical Resources (Appalachian coal, $23-42/hr)

• Warrior Met Coal (Alabama coal mining, similar to Drummond)

Other Mining (Also Accessible & High Wages):

• Gold/silver/copper mining (Nevada, Arizona, Montana - $24-46/hr)

• Iron ore mining (Minnesota, Michigan - $22-40/hr)

• Aggregates/quarries (nationwide stone, sand, gravel - $18-32/hr)

• Industrial minerals (nationwide - $18-34/hr)

Heavy Industry (Alternative to Mining):

• Steel mills (U.S. Steel, Nucor, Cleveland-Cliffs - $22-40/hr, union)

• Oil refineries (petroleum refining - $24-45/hr)

• Chemical plants (Dow, BASF, DuPont - $22-38/hr)

• Heavy equipment manufacturing (Caterpillar, Deere - $20-35/hr)

Why Mining Industry Highly Accessible:

• CRITICAL labor shortage nationwide - Young workers refuse to enter mining

• Highest blue-collar wages - $50,000-$130,000+ with overtime

• Behind-the-scenes operations - Underground and surface mining, remote locations

• Physical demanding work - Extreme conditions reduce applicant competition dramatically

• Safety-focused culture - Reliability and safety matter more than backgrounds

• Union representation - Job protections and seniority advancement

• Case-by-case evaluation - Mining values physical capability and work ethic

• Essential commodity production - Recession-resistant stable employment

• Technical skills training - Mining provides comprehensive MSHA training and equipment operation

Final Thoughts

Drummond Company offers highly accessible employment for people with felonies through case-by-case evaluation in coal mining industry experiencing critical labor shortage. Mine Laborer/General Labor ($22-32/hour, $46,000-$67,000/year base) represents most accessible entry point requiring limited mining experience, straightforward physical labor supporting coal operations, behind-the-scenes surface mining work, and extremely demanding physical conditions (outdoor Alabama heat/cold, heavy lifting, long shifts) that dramatically reduce applicant competition. Extensive overtime opportunities with 10-12 hour shifts and 50-60 hour weeks increase annual earnings to $60,000-$85,000+ for entry-level laborers. Underground Coal Miner positions ($25-40/hour base, $75,000-$110,000+ with overtime) accessible after 1-2 years experience proving physical capability and safety consciousness. Mine Maintenance Mechanic positions ($28-45/hour, $58,000-$94,000 base, $80,000-$130,000+ with overtime) accessible for people with industrial mechanical skills despite criminal records due to severe shortage. Career advancement realistic: Mine Laborer → Equipment Operator ($24-38/hour) → Underground Miner ($25-40/hour) → Mine Foreman ($60,000-$95,000) over 5-10 years based purely on safety performance, technical competency, and reliability. Apply to Drummond mines in central Alabama (Jasper, Tuscaloosa County areas). Non-violent felonies widely accepted. Sabotage extremely problematic (underground mine safety—likely automatic disqualification). Violence scrutinized but case-by-case with time elapsed. United Mine Workers union representation provides job protections and seniority advancement rights.

Key Takeaways for 2025:

• Drummond Company generally felon-friendly with case-by-case evaluation

• Mine Laborer $22-32/hour ($46k-$67k, $60k-$85k+ with OT) MOST accessible entry

• Underground Miner $25-40/hour ($75k-$110k+ with extensive OT after 1-2 years)

• Mine Maintenance Mechanic $28-45/hour ($80k-$130k+ with OT for skilled trades)

• Critical coal mining labor shortage creates hiring urgency despite records

• Non-violent felonies widely accepted, sabotage major problem (mine safety—disqualifies)

• Behind-the-scenes underground and surface coal mining operations

• Career path: Laborer → Operator → Miner → Foreman ($60k-$95k) over 5-10 years

• Extensive overtime: 50-60 hour weeks standard (1.5x pay massively increases earnings)

• Central Alabama mines: Jasper, Tuscaloosa County areas (Walker County coal fields)

• Hair follicle drug testing REQUIRED—must pass (detects 90 days, strictest in industry)

• MSHA safety training provided by Drummond (40 hours new miner training)

• Physical capability CRITICAL—underground mining extremely demanding work

• United Mine Workers union representation (job protections, seniority advancement)

• Apply to multiple coal mining companies—entire industry faces labor shortage

• Highest blue-collar wages in Alabama and nationally ($50k-$130k with OT)

• Mining offers accessible employment for people with records willing to do demanding dangerous work