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Core Drill Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Our core values guide our strategy, performance, and culture. We believe in maintaining an ... Job Summary The Gas Directional Drill Operator is responsible for safely operating the directional ...

Our core values guide our strategy, performance, and culture. We believe in maintaining an ... Job Summary The Gas Directional Drill Operator is responsible for safely operating the directional ...

Large Diameter Drill Operator

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$28 - $38/hr

Drill Operator Travel: Regional, primarily VA sites Pay Range: $28.00/hr- $38.00/hr (Based on ... Wagman Heavy Civil Inc's core competencies include design-build, infrastructure, marine ...

Our core values guide our strategy, performance, and culture. We believe in maintaining an ... Job Summary The Gas Directional Drill Operator is responsible for safely operating the directional ...

Our core values guide our strategy, performance, and culture. We believe in maintaining an ... Job Summary The Gas Directional Drill Operator is responsible for safely operating the directional ...

Our core values guide our strategy, performance, and culture. We believe in maintaining an ... Job Summary The Gas Directional Drill Operator is responsible for safely operating the directional ...

Our core values guide our strategy, performance, and culture. We believe in maintaining an ... Job Summary The Gas Directional Drill Operator is responsible for safely operating the directional ...

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Showing results 1-20

Core Drill Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$27

$51

How much do core drill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for core drill operator in Virginia is $27.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.72 and $30.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a core drill operator?

Core Drill Operators are skilled workers who operate drilling machines to extract cylindrical samples (known as cores) from various materials such as concrete, rock, or soil. These samples are used for testing, analysis, or construction purposes. Core Drill Operators must understand blueprints, ensure safety procedures are followed, and maintain their equipment. Their work is essential in fields like construction, mining, and geological surveying.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a core drill operator?

Core Drill Operators require mechanical aptitude, knowledge of drilling techniques, and often a high school diploma or equivalent with relevant on-the-job training. Familiarity with core drilling equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications such as OSHA or MSHA are typically necessary. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication are important soft skills for this role. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and precise extraction of core samples, which is critical for construction, mining, and geological projects.

What are common challenges faced by core drill operators on construction sites?

Core Drill Operators frequently encounter challenges such as working in tight or awkward spaces, managing heavy equipment, and ensuring accuracy while drilling through various materials like concrete or asphalt. They need to maintain strict safety protocols, especially when dealing with dust and debris or operating around other trades. Effective communication with project managers and site supervisors is crucial to coordinate drilling locations and schedules, helping to minimize disruptions and ensure precise results.

What is the difference between Core Drill Operator vs Diamond Drill Operator?

AspectCore Drill OperatorDiamond Drill Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operation certificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operation certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, geological explorationMining, geological exploration, construction
Industry UsageConstruction, mining, environmental testingMining, mineral exploration, construction

Both Core Drill Operators and Diamond Drill Operators require similar certifications and work in construction and mining environments. The main difference lies in the drilling methods: core drills extract cylindrical samples, while diamond drills use industrial diamonds for cutting through hard materials. Understanding these distinctions helps employers and workers choose the right role for specific projects.

How to become a core drill operator?

To become a core drill operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or apprenticeships to learn how to operate core drilling equipment safely. Certification in equipment operation and safety standards can improve job prospects, and physical fitness is important due to the demanding nature of the work environment.
Infographic showing various Core Drill Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,420 per year, or $27.6 per hour.

Concrete Core Drill Operator (Concrete Driller)

RA Holdings Group

Norfolk, VA โ€ข On-site

$26 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

RA Holdings, through our Ladybug Concrete Specialties branch, is looking for a Concrete Core Drill Operator (Concrete Driller).


Company-Branch Overview: 

Ladybug Concrete Specialties is one out of three branches that make up the RA Holdings family. Ladybug Concrete Specialties is a professional cutting and drilling company founded in 1997. Specializing in concrete-cutting, core drilling, joint sealing, grinding and polishing services tailored to the needs of military, commercial, industrial, and government clients. Whether supporting new construction, renovations, or specialized industrial needs, we deliver work that reflects high standards and deep experiences.


Essential Job Duties:

  • Operate handheld, rig-mounted, and hydraulic core drilling equipment to drill precise openings in concrete.
  • Drill concrete for installations of anchors, bolts, and other construction needs.
  • Assist with concrete cutting, demolition, renovation, restoration, and repair projects.
  • Perform concrete repairs including patching, grinding, polishing, crack repair, and epoxy applications when needed.
  • Measure and prepare materials for concrete repair work.
  • Work on commercial, industrial, government, military, and infrastructure construction projects.
  • Read measurements and follow project plans and supervisor instructions.
  • Keep tools, equipment, and work areas clean and organized.
  • Inspect and maintain equipment to ensure safe operation.
  • Follow OSHA regulations and all site-specific safety requirements.


Required Skills, Abilities, and Qualifications:

  • Must be able to obtain DBIDS military badging which includes a background check.
  • Must have the REAL ID or ability to obtain one.
  • Clean driving record, or no-fault accidents, to qualify for our Company Auto Insurance.
  • Ability to drive to project sites within the cities in the 757 area.
  • Ability to pass a drug test.


Schedule:

  • Monday-Friday 7:00am-3:30pm


Pay:

  • $26-$28hr depending on experience


Benefits:

  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Holidays Off
  • 401(k) with company match as applicable
  • Overtime opportunities at 1.5x 
  • Company-provided equipment and tools
  • Stable, full-time work with consistent schedule