Roger Schnabel Net Worth

What is Roger Schnabel's net worth?

Roger Schnabel is an American businessman and reality TV personality who has a net worth of $8 million. Best known for his appearances on Discovery Channel's "Gold Rush," Roger is a co-owner of the Big Nugget Mine in Haines, Alaska, and the father of miner and TV star Parker Schnabel. As the son of legendary prospector John Schnabel, Roger represents the middle generation of one of "Gold Rush's" most enduring families, bridging his father's old-school mining wisdom with his son's modern, large-scale operations. Beyond television, Roger built a long and successful career in construction, land development, and heavy machinery, playing a pivotal behind-the-scenes role in the family's continued success.

Early Life and Career

Roger Schnabel was born and raised in Haines, Alaska, into a family steeped in hard work and perseverance. His father, John Schnabel, moved the family north during the Great Depression and built a sawmill business before turning to gold mining later in life. Growing up around machinery and rugged landscapes, Roger developed both a strong mechanical aptitude and a deep respect for Alaska's wilderness.

Before entering the mining spotlight, Roger built a successful career as a civil engineer and businessman. He founded his own road construction and excavation company, SE Roadbuilders, which became known for its large-scale projects across southeastern Alaska. His expertise in road building and logistics would later prove critical to the family's mining ventures, helping to transport and install heavy equipment in the remote, mountainous terrain of the Klondike.

"Gold Rush" and the Big Nugget Mine

Roger first appeared on Discovery Channel's "Gold Rush" in 2011, becoming a recurring presence throughout the show's run. The Big Nugget Mine, originally purchased and operated by his father, John Schnabel, served as one of the series' foundational mining sites. When John's health began to decline, Roger stepped in to help manage operations and mentor his son Parker, who took over the mine as a teenager.

Roger was often portrayed as the quiet problem-solver behind the scenes—the voice of reason and engineering expertise guiding Parker's rapid growth as a miner. While his son took center stage on-screen, Roger remained heavily involved in the practical and technical aspects of the operation, ensuring that Big Nugget ran efficiently and safely. His steady demeanor and deep family loyalty stood in contrast to the more dramatic rivalries between other miners such as Todd Hoffman and Tony Beets.

In addition to the main series, Roger has appeared in several related programs, including "Gold Rush: Parker's Trail," "Gold Rush: South America," and "Gold Rush: The Dirt." Through these appearances, he became a fan favorite for his calm authority and genuine dedication to the family business.

Business Ventures and Legacy

Outside of television, Roger continues to run SE Roadbuilders, which has operated for decades as one of Alaska's most respected construction firms. His work includes road infrastructure, land clearing, and equipment transport—skills that have directly supported the success of the Schnabel family's mining endeavors.

Roger's contributions to "Gold Rush" extend beyond entertainment; he played a vital role in turning his family's passion project into a multigenerational enterprise. His engineering background and business acumen helped modernize the Big Nugget Mine, ensuring its longevity long after his father's passing in 2016.

Personal Life

Roger Schnabel is married to Nancy Schnabel, and together they have two sons, Parker and Payson. Both have appeared on "Gold Rush," with Parker emerging as one of the youngest and most successful miners in the show's history. Roger remains deeply involved in his family's ventures, balancing his time between the construction business, mine operations, and his home in Haines.

Known for his humility and work ethic, Roger Schnabel embodies the blend of technical expertise and family devotion that has made the Schnabels one of the most enduring names in modern mining television.

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