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Core Sample Drilling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Core Driller

Winston Salem, NC · On-site

$21.25 - $28.75/hr

Job Summary This position is responsible for the safe operation of drilling equipment to prepare for blasting operations and to extract core samples from the earth's subsurface. This role requires a ...

$21.50 - $29.25/hr

Operate and maintain core drilling rigs to collect high-quality core samples for mineral exploration, adhering to project specifications and drilling targets. * Safely recover and store core samples ...

... drilling equipment to obtain core samples. * Equipment Handling: Move drills, supplies, and equipment as needed. * Set Up Drills: Build drill decks and other structures. * Handle Materials: Move and ...

... drilling equipment to obtain core samples. * Equipment Handling: Move drills, supplies, and equipment as needed. * Set Up Drills: Build drill decks and other structures. * Handle Materials: Move and ...

... drilling equipment to obtain core samples. * Equipment Handling: Move drills, supplies, and equipment as needed. * Set Up Drills: Build drill decks and other structures. * Handle Materials: Move and ...

... drilling equipment to obtain core samples. * Equipment Handling: Move drills, supplies, and equipment as needed. * Set Up Drills: Build drill decks and other structures. * Handle Materials: Move and ...

Cut drill core as directed by client using masonry or automated saw; * Review and interpret a 'cut sheet' and contextual information inside a core sample box; * Sample material from core boxes based ...

Driller's Assistant

Elko, NV · On-site

$90K/yr

... drilling equipment to obtain core samples. * Equipment Handling: Move drills, supplies, and equipment as needed. * Set Up Drills: Build drill decks and other structures. * Handle Materials: Move and ...

... drilling equipment to obtain core samples. * Equipment Handling: Move drills, supplies, and equipment as needed. * Set Up Drills: Build drill decks and other structures. * Handle Materials: Move and ...

... drilling equipment to obtain core samples. * Equipment Handling: Move drills, supplies, and equipment as needed. * Set Up Drills: Build drill decks and other structures. * Handle Materials: Move and ...

Core Driller

Garner, NC · On-site

$20.50 - $27.75/hr

... drilling equipment and support vehicles during all phases of auger and core sampling activities at both surface and underground mine sites. The driller will operate under the direction of the lead ...

... drilling equipment to obtain core samples. * Equipment Handling: Move drills, supplies, and equipment as needed. * Set Up Drills: Build drill decks and other structures. * Handle Materials: Move and ...

... drilling equipment to obtain core samples. * Equipment Handling: Move drills, supplies, and equipment as needed. * Set Up Drills: Build drill decks and other structures. * Handle Materials: Move and ...

... drilling equipment to obtain core samples. * Equipment Handling: Move drills, supplies, and equipment as needed. * Set Up Drills: Build drill decks and other structures. * Handle Materials: Move and ...

Driller Helper

Elko, NV · On-site

$150/day

Sample Handling * Help collect, label, and transport rock chip or core samples as directed ... rig or drilling experience is a major asset MSHA safety certification is preferred, but not ...

Sample Handling * Help collect, label, and transport rock chip or core samples as directed ... rig or drilling experience is a major asset MSHA safety certification is preferred, but not ...

Sample Handling * Help collect, label, and transport rock chip or core samples as directed ... rig or drilling experience is a major asset MSHA safety certification is preferred, but not ...

Driller Helper

Elko, NV · On-site

$150/day

Sample Handling * Help collect, label, and transport rock chip or core samples as directed ... rig or drilling experience is a major asset MSHA safety certification is preferred, but not ...

Driller Helper

Elko, NV · On-site

$150/day

Handle drill rods, casing, core tubes, and sampling components. * Maintain clean and stocked work ... areas, including tool storage and sample stations. • Sample Handling * Help collect, label, and ...

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Core Sample Drilling information

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$13

$22

$40

How much do core sample drilling jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for core sample 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.

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 industry. Skilled drillers with certifications and experience in specialized equipment may earn higher wages, especially in remote or high-demand areas.

What is a core driller job?

A core driller job involves operating drilling equipment to extract cylindrical rock or soil samples, called core samples, from the earth for geological analysis. The role requires knowledge of drilling techniques, safety procedures, and often the use of specialized tools and machinery in outdoor or industrial environments.

What is a core sample for drilling?

A core sample for drilling is a cylindrical piece of subsurface rock or soil extracted using specialized drilling equipment. It provides direct information about the geological formation, which is essential for resource exploration, geotechnical analysis, and environmental assessments. Core drilling requires precise techniques and often involves handling core barrels and core boxes to preserve the sample integrity.

Who is the best drilling company to work for?

For core sample drilling jobs, reputable companies are often evaluated based on safety records, employee reviews, and training programs. Large, established firms with OSHA compliance and good safety standards tend to offer better working conditions and career growth opportunities for drillers. Researching company reputation and industry certifications can help identify reliable employers in this field.

What is a Core Sample Drilling job?

A Core Sample Drilling job involves operating drilling equipment to extract cylindrical rock, soil, or ice samples from the earth for geological analysis. These samples help geologists, engineers, and scientists assess ground conditions for construction, mining, oil exploration, and environmental studies. Drill operators and technicians must follow safety protocols, maintain equipment, and document findings. The job may require working in remote locations under challenging conditions. Specialized training or certifications may be needed depending on the industry.

What is a typical work environment like for a core sample drilling professional?

Core sample drilling professionals often work outdoors at mining, construction, or remote exploration sites, where shifts can range from standard hours to extended rotations depending on project demands. The work involves operating heavy drilling equipment, handling core samples, and adhering to strict safety protocols in sometimes challenging weather and terrain. Teams typically consist of drill operators, helpers, geologists, and safety personnel, all collaborating closely to ensure accurate core retrieval and data collection. While the role can be physically demanding, it offers valuable field experience and the opportunity to advance into supervisory or specialized technical positions over time.

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

To thrive in core sample drilling, you need a solid understanding of drilling techniques, equipment operation, and safety protocols, typically supported by relevant vocational training or industry certifications such as H2S Awareness or First Aid. Familiarity with drilling rigs, core extraction tools, and basic geological logging systems is essential for the technical demands of the job. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and physical stamina are important soft skills in this field. These capabilities are crucial for safely and efficiently obtaining accurate core samples, often in remote or challenging environments, to support mining, construction, or geological research projects.

More about Core Sample Drilling jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Core Sample Drilling jobs? The most popular types of Core Sample Drilling jobs are:
What states have the most Core Sample Drilling jobs? States with the most job openings for Core Sample Drilling jobs include:
Infographic showing various Core Sample Drilling job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,781 per year, or $22 per hour.
Core Driller

$21.25 - $28.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Vulcan Materials rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 148 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

313th of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description


Job Summary
This position is responsible for the safe operation of drilling equipment to prepare for blasting operations and to extract core samples from the earth's subsurface. This role requires a thorough understanding of drilling equipment, ground conditions, and safety protocols. The operator will be responsible for maintaining and troubleshooting the equipment, following instructions from supervisors and geologists, and accurately documenting drilling activities. This position involves operating drilling equipment with a strong focus on safety.
Essential Functions
• Operate the portable rotary drill.
• Adjust drilling techniques based on soil or rock conditions encountered during drilling.
• Travel to various sites to support drilling operations and business needs. Includes consistent and frequent overnights.
• Collect and describe stone, sand, and gravel samples.
• Perform pre-shift and post-shift inspections and maintenance of drill bits, drill steel, lubricant systems, and fluid levels.
• Perform minor services, repairs, and adjustments, such as replacing gaskets, filters, and hoses in order to improve drill performance.
• Report any maintenance needs or equipment issues to the maintenance department.
• Enter and maintain information regarding drill logs, drilling reports, and other relevant operational information.
• Work closely with geologists, engineers, plant management and other team members to coordinate drilling activities and achieve objectives.
• Communicate effectively with team members and onsite personnel.
• Other duties as assigned.
Critical Competencies
• Technical Proficiency-Knowledge and skills in a specific field, gained through education, training, experience, and continuous learning. It combines theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and problem-solving ability. Technical proficiency is valuable to employers for innovation, efficiency, and problem-solving.
• Problem Solving- identify, analyze, and resolve work-related issues efficiently and effectively using practical knowledge, experience, and hands-on skills. This involves identifying the problem, diagnosing the cause, finding practical solutions, implementing fixes, and adapting to unexpected challenges.
• Attention to Detail- Ability to thoroughly and accurately complete tasks, ensuring that no aspects or elements are overlooked; meticulous and precise when handling information, performing tasks, or delivering work, and is critical in ensuring the quality, accuracy, and integrity of the results.
• Communication: Ability to clearly and effectively convey information, ideas, and messages to others in both written and verbal formats; can express one's thoughts clearly but also demonstrate active listening, understands the needs of the audience, and adapts the message to ensure it is understood.
Responsibilities
Education
• HS Diploma preferred.
Experience
• 3 (three) years experience as a driller in construction, mining, or environmental projects is preferred.
• Must have a valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record.
• A commercial driver's license or the ability to obtain one is strongly preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Proficient in operating and maintaining drilling equipment.
• Knowledge of different drilling techniques and methodologies.
• Strong attention to safety protocols, practices and operation techniques
• Knowledge of and adherence to environmental regulations related to drilling operations.
• Basic mechanical aptitude to complete a thorough safety and mechanical inspection
• Clear communication skills to collaborate with team members and convey important information.
• Ability to adapt to changing project requirements and work in diverse geological conditions.
• Efficient planning and organization of drilling activities to meet project timelines.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively.
• Identify and address issues and challenges encountered during drilling operations and report any concerns or abnormalities promptly.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team, coordinating drilling activities with other team members.
• Gathering and recording geological data, core sample information, and other relevant data during drilling operations.
Other Requirements
• Adhere to safety best practices, protocols and guidelines to prevent accidents and ensure a safe working environment.
• Utilize personal protective equipment (PPE) and enforce safety measures among the drilling team.
• Maintain awareness of surroundings, equipment, and personnel to prevent accidents or hazards.
• Report any safety concerns, incidents, or equipment malfunctions to the supervisor promptly.
• Take an active role in prioritizing safety throughout the operation at all times and in accordance with MSHA regulations and Vulcan standards.
• Follow environmental regulations related to drilling operations and implement measures to minimize environmental impact.
• Must be willing to work overtime and travel to different operations depending on company demands.
• Must be able to work outside in all types of weather conditions and tolerate being exposed to loud noises.
• Physical ability to operate heavy machinery for extended periods
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Vulcan Materials Company is an equal opportunity employer.

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