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Core Sample Drilling Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Bore Rig Operator

Acampo, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Sampling and analysis: In water well or geotechnical drilling, the operator may collect and log core samples to determine the nature of the rock and soil strata being drilled.Problem-solving: The ...

Provost & Pritchard

Associate Geologist

Sonora, CA · On-site

Log exploration drilling and rock core samples. * Coordinate field activities with contractors and drillers. * Conduct site visits to observe construction and provide field support. * Analyze ...

Rio Tinto

Ore Control Geologist

Boron, CA · On-site

$92K - $126K/yr

Diamond and RC drilling logging and sample collection. * Contractor Management of drill rigs for diamond core drilling and sonic core drilling campaigns. * Take part in Business Improvement projects.

SF Demo - Rio Tinto

Ore Control Geologist

Boron, CA

$92K - $126K/yr

Diamond and RC drilling logging and sample collection. * Contractor Management of drill rigs for diamond core drilling and sonic core drilling campaigns. * Take part in Business Improvement projects.

Fugro

Senior Geologist

Walnut Creek, CA · Hybrid

$123K/yr

... support drilling operations including core logging and sample preparation; utilize geologic software to interpret and present data; ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations ...

Fugro

Senior Geologist

Walnut Creek, CA · Hybrid

$123K/yr

... support drilling operations including core logging and sample preparation; utilize geologic software to interpret and present data; ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations ...

Fugro

Senior Geologist

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$123K/yr

... support drilling operations including core logging and sample preparation; utilize geologic software to interpret and present data; ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations ...

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Core Sample Drilling information

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How much do core sample drilling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for core sample drilling in California is $21.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a core sample drilling?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in core sample drilling?

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.

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

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 most commonly searched types of Core Sample Drilling jobs in California?

The most popular types of Core Sample Drilling jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Core Sample Drilling jobs in California?

For Core Sample Drilling jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Core Sample Drilling jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Core Sample Drilling jobs in California are:

Core Sample Drilling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Core Sample Drilling job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,181 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Surface Core Driller

Nasco Industrial Services & Supply

California City, CA • On-site

$32 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 14 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)

Apply