1

Core Drilling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Core Driller

Garner, NC · On-site

$20.50 - $27.75/hr

Safely transport and operate core drilling equipment and support vehicles. * Perform maintenance and repair of equipment required. * Document daily tasks including maintenance, operation, and drill ...

$21.50 - $29.25/hr

You will perform core drilling services for a seasonal mineral exploration project. This is a temporary position with an anticipated duration of approximately 5 to 8 months. How will you do it?

Diamond/Core Driller Assistant

Moab, UT · On-site

$23.25 - $31.50/hr

The assistant plays a key role in ensuring efficient and safe core drilling operations. Responsibilities * Assist with setup, operation, and teardown of diamond/core drilling rigs * Handle drill rods ...

Diamond/Core Driller

Moab, UT · On-site

$23.25 - $31.50/hr

Safely operate diamond/core drilling rigs in accordance with company procedures, manufacturer ... guidelines, and regulatory requirements * Conduct pre-start inspections and ongoing checks of drill ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Core Drilling information

See salary details

$13

$22

$40

How much do core drilling jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for core drilling in the United States is $22.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Core Drilling job?

A Core Drilling job involves using a specialized drill to remove cylindrical sections of material, typically concrete, asphalt, or stone. It is commonly used in construction, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC installations to create precise holes for pipes, wiring, or structural testing. Core drilling requires skilled operators who can handle heavy machinery and ensure smooth, accurate cuts. Safety precautions, such as dust control and proper equipment usage, are essential in this job.

What is a core Driller job description?

A core driller operates drilling equipment to extract cylindrical rock or soil samples, known as core samples, for geological analysis. The job involves setting up drilling rigs, following safety protocols, and working in various outdoor environments, often requiring knowledge of tools like diamond or rotary drills and adherence to safety certifications. Core drillers play a key role in construction, mining, and environmental projects by providing essential subsurface data.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Core Drilling position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Core Drilling, you need strong mechanical aptitude, knowledge of drilling techniques, and often a high school diploma or technical certification. Experience with drilling rigs, core sampling equipment, and safety protocols like OSHA certification is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help professionals excel in the field. These abilities ensure safe, precise, and efficient extraction of core samples, which are vital for construction, mining, and geological assessments.

How to become a core Driller?

To become a core driller, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience operating drilling equipment. Many employers require completion of on-the-job training or technical courses in drilling techniques and safety procedures, and some positions may require certifications such as OSHA safety training.

How much does a core driller make?

Core drillers typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $70,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled workers with specialized equipment knowledge and safety training tend to earn higher wages in this field.

What type of drilling pays the most?

In core drilling, specialized projects such as mineral exploration or geothermal drilling tend to pay higher wages due to the technical skill and equipment involved. Experienced drillers with certifications and knowledge of advanced tools can also command higher salaries, especially in remote or challenging environments.

What does a typical day look like for a Core Drilling professional?

A typical day for a Core Drilling professional involves setting up and maintaining drilling equipment at job sites, conducting core extraction operations, and carefully documenting and labeling samples for analysis. You’ll routinely collaborate with geologists, engineers, and site managers to ensure drilling meets specifications and safety standards. The work often requires traveling to various locations, adapting to outdoor conditions, and adhering strictly to operational and environmental guidelines. As you gain experience, there's potential to move into supervisory roles or specialized technical positions within the drilling industry.

More about Core Drilling jobs
What cities are hiring for Core Drilling jobs? Cities with the most Core Drilling job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Core Drilling jobs? The most popular types of Core Drilling jobs are:
What states have the most Core Drilling jobs? States with the most job openings for Core Drilling jobs include:
Infographic showing various Core Drilling job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% Full Time, 76% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,781 per year, or $22 per hour.

$21 - $28.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

NISS – Surface Core Driller

Location: Western USA
Position Type: Full-time, rotational (e.g. 14 days on / 7 days off or 20 days on / 10 days off or similar)
Reporting To: Toolpusher / Site Supervisor

About NISS

At NISS, we specialize in high-quality surface and helicopter supported core drilling for the mining, exploration, and geotechnical sectors. Safety, professionalism, and efficiency are at the heart of everything we do. We invest in our people, providing training, career paths, and competitive compensation.

Position Overview

We are seeking experienced Surface Core Drillers to join our field crew. The successful candidates will help operate core drilling rigs, supervise drilling assistants, maintain equipment, and ensure safe and efficient operations.

Drilling operations run 24/7 in many projects — shifts include both day and night work. You must be ready to work in remote or rugged locations and maintain a strong safety mindset.

Key Responsibilities
  • Operate and maintain core drilling rigs, downhole tooling, and associated support equipment
  • Lead and supervise drill assistants, train and mentor new crew members
  • Execute and document pre-shift inspections, toolbox talks, rig moves, and site set up
  • Handle drill rods, casing, core barrels, sample handling, and drill rig consumables
  • Monitor drilling parameters and make adjustments as needed to maintain production and safety
  • Maintain accurate field logs, sample records, production data, and daily reports
  • Perform equipment maintenance, basic repairs, and troubleshooting on the rig
  • Ensure housekeeping, site cleanliness, and compliance with safety protocols
  • Communicate transparently with Toolpusher, Supervisors, Project Managers and clients
  • Adhere to all company, client, and regulatory safety requirements
Qualifications & Requirements
  • Proven experience in surface core drilling or similar roles (geotechnical, exploration)
  • Ability to lead a small crew and supervise daily operations
  • Basic mechanical aptitude — understanding of diesel engines, hydraulics, drilling tools, etc.
  • Strong commitment to safety, with experience in safe work practices
  • Physical capability to lift up to 100+ lbs., work at heights, and perform strenuous tasks
  • Ability to work long hours (often 12-hour shifts), in remote or extreme weather conditions
  • Valid driver’s license, clean driving record
  • Pass pre-employment physical, drug & background screening
  • Willingness to adhere to rotational schedule (e.g. 14 on / 7 off or 20 on / 10 off)
  • Comfortable living on site and adapting to changing field conditions
  • Good communication skills and ability to work well in a team
Work Schedule & Conditions
  • Typical rotations: 14 days on / 7 days off (or per project schedule)
  • Other rotations: 20 days on / 10 days off or 28 days on / 14 days off
  • 12-hour shifts (day and night) — rigs operate 24/7
  • Remote, rugged locations with travel required
  • Camp-style living, with site accommodations and meals provided
  • Exposure to extreme weather, uneven terrain, and physically demanding tasks
Compensation & Benefits
  • Competitive hourly wage or salary (based on experience)
  • Overtime and shift premium pay
  • Travel per diem when required
  • Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision, life, etc.)
  • Retirement plan / 401(k) or equivalent
  • Training and career development opportunities
  • Progressive advancement track (Driller → Lead Driller → Foreman / Toolpusher)