Who We Are
Pinto Valley is an open-pit copper mine located at the west end of the historic Globe-Miami mining district of central Arizona, approximately 80 miles east of Phoenix. Pinto Valley has been in operation since 1972 and has produced more than four billion pounds of copper. Acquired by Capstone from BHP in 2013, the mine is fully permitted through 2039 and a study is underway to potentially extend the mine life through 2050.
Our proximity to the Greater Phoenix metro area provides prospective employees with the option to live in communities such as Mesa, Apache Junction, Gilbert, Chandler, San Tan Valley, or Florence. Our location offers a unique work-life balance, blending the rewarding opportunities of the mining industry with easy access to the vibrant energy of Downtown Phoenix, making it an ideal choice for both individuals and their families.
About the Role
Our student internship program offers a structured, supervised, and paid, full-time opportunity to gain valuable real-world experience in the mining industry.
As an Engineering Intern, you will have the opportunity to contribute to a variety of mining industry initiatives while developing practical, hands-on experience aligned with your academic focus. Areas of opportunity include Mine Operations, Geomechanics, Sustainable Resource Development, and Mineral Processing, with an emphasis on our top priority: mineworker safety. This is an opportunity to apply what you've learned in the classroom, develop your professional skills, and gain firsthand experience in the mining industry.
Qualifications
- Eligible Majors: Engineering (Mining, Geotechnical, or other related engineering programs), Geology, Metallurgy, Health/Safety/Environmental, and other related fields.
- Availability: Must be available from May through August 2027 and currently enrolled at an accredited university or community college.
- Company Values: Must be committed to living and demonstrating our company values.
- Communication & Safety: Ability to understand and follow verbal and written work-related and safety instructions and procedures in English.
Physical Demands of the Role
This position involves working in an active mining environment. Candidates must be able to:
- Stand and walk for extended periods, including navigating stairs and uneven surfaces.
- Lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
- Kneel, crawl, stoop, and squat, occasionally in confined spaces.
- Occasionally lift and move moderately heavy objects during the workday.
Pre-Employment Requirements
All candidates must successfully complete a pre-employment medical examination, drug and alcohol screening, and background check. A pre-placement physical examination is required to ensure candidates are fit for duty. Additional training and/or testing may also be required. Capstone maintains a drug- and alcohol-free workplace.
CAPSTONE COPPER IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Skills Required
- Currently enrolled at an accredited university or community college
- Available to work from May through August 2027
- Major in engineering, mining, geotechnical engineering, geology, metallurgy, health, safety, environmental studies, or a related field
- Commitment to demonstrate company values
- Ability to understand and follow verbal and written work-related and safety instructions in English
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods, including on stairs and uneven surfaces
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds
- Ability to kneel, crawl, stoop, squat, and occasionally work in confined spaces
- Ability to complete a pre-employment medical examination, physical examination, drug and alcohol screening, and background check
What We Do
Pinto Valley is a copper-molybdenum open pit mine and the only operating mine located in the historic Globe-Miami mining district of Arizona, one of the oldest and most productive mining districts in the US. This is an affiliated page of Capstone Copper. Pinto Valley is a wholly owned US subsidiary of Capstone Copper. Follow this page for any updates and news relating to Pinto Valley. For employment opportunities at Pinto Valley, please visit the Capstone Copper page.

