The reality television star Parker Schnabel is considered a mining sensation on Gold Rush. He has a more low-profile brother named Payson Schnabel, who has appeared in a few episodes on the show. Payson is a construction and mining professional with an estimated net worth of $1 million in 2024.
Early Life
Payson was born to Roger and Nancy Schnabel in Haines, Alaska. His exact date of birth hasn’t been revealed, but it is known that he is older than Parker.
His late grandfather, John Schnabel, was a legendary miner who owned the Big Nugget Mine. He became the inspiration for the Schnabel brothers. Payson grew up playing with construction machinery.
He quickly picked up how to operate various equipment and also learned about the construction trade. After graduating from Haines High School, he went to Northern Arizona University to study Business Administration and Construction Management.
Career Beginnings
Schnabel was initially apprehensive about working in the mining and construction sectors. However, he did see some merit in joining the family business to enhance his management skills.
While Parker was training to replace his grandfather, Payson Schnabel was taking care of other aspects of their company. He worked his way up to become the property manager at Big Nuggets Mine.
Despite not getting much screen time, he played a significant role in the background. However, Payson moved to a different location in Alaska to start his own construction company not long after.
Gold Rush Appearances
Due to their mining reputation in Alaska, the Schnabel family became a core part of the Discovery Channel reality series Gold Rush. Even so, Payson did his best to avoid the spotlight.
Although he isn’t a part of the main cast, Payson made several appearances on Gold Rush. He made his first cameo in season three, but is perhaps most remembered for showing up in season four to hear his grandfather’s last wish.
John Schnabel was on his deathbed at the time. He passed away in 2016, and Gold Rush made a tribute to him. It was called “Remembering John Schnabel”, and Payson was in it. This was his last recorded appearance on reality TV.
Net Worth and Earnings
Despite not being involved directly with the family’s ventures, Payson Schnabel has made quite a living for himself working as a construction engineer. According to Talent.com, construction engineers earn an average of $83,586 per year.
It can also be assumed that he earned a steady paycheck working at the Big Nugget Mine. Even though he isn’t a primary cast member in Gold Rush, he is likely paid every time he appears in the hit series. His net worth is estimated to be $1 million.
Personal Life
Unlike most of his other family members, Schnabel likes to keep his affairs to himself. It is not known if he is married, in a relationship, or single. Currently, he is focusing on improving his career and business.
