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Core Drill Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Drill Operator - 3rd Shift

Brea, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Our commitment to quality, precision, and collaboration is at the core of everything we do. About the Role We are seeking a Drill Operator to join our Fullerton/Brea facility. In this role, you will ...

Drill Operator - 3rd Shift

Brea, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Our commitment to quality, precision, and collaboration is at the core of everything we do. About the Role We are seeking a Drill Operator to join our Fullerton/Brea facility. In this role, you will ...

Drill Operator - 3rd Shift

Brea, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Our commitment to quality, precision, and collaboration is at the core of everything we do. About the Role We are seeking a Drill Operator to join our Fullerton/Brea facility. In this role, you will ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Core Drill Operator information

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$13

$27

$51

How much do core drill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for core drill operator in the United States is $27.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $31.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some 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.

What are Core Drill Operators?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Core Drill Operator, and why are they important?

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.
More about Core Drill Operator jobs
What states have the most Core Drill Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Core Drill Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Core Drill Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,917 per year, or $27.8 per hour.
Drill Operator - 3rd Shift

Drill Operator - 3rd Shift

WINONICS

Brea, CA โ€ข On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Winonics is a trusted leader in advanced PCB manufacturing, driven by a culture of teamwork, innovation, and continuous improvement. We foster a supportive, hands-on environment where every team member is encouraged to contribute, develop new skills, and grow professionally. Our commitment to quality, precision, and collaboration is at the core of everything we do.

About the Role

We are seeking a Drill Operator to join our Fullerton/Brea facility. In this role, you will be responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining drilling and routing equipment used in the production of high-reliability printed circuit boards. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, safety-conscious, and committed to producing quality work that meets customer specifications and industry standards.

Duties & Responsibilities
  • Set up, operate, and maintain CNC drilling and routing equipment
  • Download and execute CNC programs according to traveler instructions
  • Perform drilling operations including double-sided, multilayer, counterbore, countersink, and controlled-depth drilling
  • Operate optimization and x-ray equipment to verify panel alignment and registration
  • Inspect new and re-sharpened drill bits to ensure quality and readiness
  • Conduct in-process inspections to verify counts, measurements, and product quality
  • Accurately enter production data into the manufacturing control system
  • Complete departmental documentation and production reports as required
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work environment while following PPE and chemical handling procedures
  • Collaborate with production and engineering teams to support workflow, quality improvements, and process testing
Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Previous experience in CNC drilling, routing, or PCB manufacturing preferred
  • Ability to read and interpret travelers, blueprints, and technical instructions
  • Basic computer skills for tracking and logging production data
  • Strong attention to detail, manual dexterity, and visual accuracy
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Comfortable working safely around chemicals and manufacturing equipment
  • Flexibility to work overtime and weekends as needed

Hourly Pay: $20 - $25 per hour

Compensation is based on relevant experience, education, certifications, and specialized skills.

Winonics is an ITAR-compliant facility, and all employees must meet ITAR eligibility requirements.

Winonics is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all federal, state, and local employment laws.


We are an ITAR-compliant facility, and all employees must meet ITAR eligibility requirements.