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Core Sample Drilling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Timberline Drilling

Driller

Virginia, MN · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

We are seeking dedicated individuals to help us provide top-tier core drilling services for both ... Sample Processing: Lead and participate in the shipping of samples from the drill site to the ...

Timberline Drilling

Driller

Juneau, AK

$24.25 - $33/hr

We are seeking dedicated individuals to help us provide top-tier core drilling services for both ... Sample Processing: Lead and participate in the shipping of samples from the drill site to the ...

Timberline Drilling Inc.

Driller

Virginia, MN · Remote

$23.50 - $32/hr

We are seeking dedicated individuals to help us provide top-tier core drilling services for both ... Sample Processing: Lead and participate in the shipping of samples from the drill site to the ...

Timberline Drilling Inc.

Driller

Elko, NV · Remote

$23.50 - $32/hr

We are seeking dedicated individuals to help us provide top-tier core drilling services for both ... Sample Processing: Lead and participate in the shipping of samples from the drill site to the ...

Timberline Drilling Inc.

Driller

Juneau, AK · On-site

$24.25 - $33/hr

We are seeking dedicated individuals to help us provide top-tier core drilling services for both ... Sample Processing: Lead and participate in the shipping of samples from the drill site to the ...

Timberline Drilling Inc.

Driller

Kellogg, ID · On-site

$21 - $28.50/hr

We are seeking dedicated individuals to help us provide top-tier core drilling services for both ... Sample Processing: Lead and participate in the shipping of samples from the drill site to the ...

Timberline Drilling Inc.

Driller

Kellogg, ID · Remote

$23.50 - $32/hr

We are seeking dedicated individuals to help us provide top-tier core drilling services for both ... Sample Processing: Lead and participate in the shipping of samples from the drill site to the ...

Timberline Drilling Inc.

Driller

Juneau, AK · Remote

$23.50 - $32/hr

We are seeking dedicated individuals to help us provide top-tier core drilling services for both ... Sample Processing: Lead and participate in the shipping of samples from the drill site to the ...

Ambler Metals

... core cutting, sample preparation and sample shipment, data entry and QA/QC tracking. * Assist with ... Exploration and Drilling Programs * Support high level planning, logistics, execution, and ...

New

Timberline Drilling Inc.

Driller

Elko, NV · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

We are seeking dedicated individuals to help us provide top-tier core drilling services for both ... Sample Processing: Lead and participate in the shipping of samples from the drill site to the ...

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Core Sample Drilling information

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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:
What job categories do people searching Core Sample Drilling jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Core Sample Drilling jobs are:
Core Sample Drilling jobs near you
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.

Surface Core Driller

Nasco Industrial Services & Supply

California City, CA • On-site

$32 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 3 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