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Drill Operator Mining Jobs (NOW HIRING)

OceanaGold

Drill and Blast Operator

Kershaw, SC

We have four operating mines - Haile in the USA, Macraes and Waihi in New Zealand, and Didipio in ... We are committed to safe and responsible mining that generates strong returns and contributes to ...

New

OceanaGold

Drill and Blast Operator

Kershaw, SC · On-site

We have four operating mines - Haile in the USA, Macraes and Waihi in New Zealand, and Didipio in ... We are committed to safe and responsible mining that generates strong returns and contributes to ...

Chart Industries

Operator I (Radial Drill)

Tulsa, OK · On-site

... mining space. Chart even contributes to the food and beverage industry by making some of your ... Differentiates between drill bits, reamers, spot facers, ring groovers, taps, etc. * Reads blue ...

Chart Industries

Operator I (Radial Drill)

Tulsa, OK

... mining space. Chart even contributes to the food and beverage industry by making some of your ... Differentiates between drill bits, reamers, spot facers, ring groovers, taps, etc. * Reads blue ...

Chart Industries

Operator I (Radial Drill)

Tulsa, OK

... mining space. Chart even contributes to the food and beverage industry by making some of your ... Differentiates between drill bits, reamers, spot facers, ring groovers, taps, etc. * Reads blue ...

Turner Mining Group

$22 - $27/hr

This individual will work closely with an experienced drill operator to safely and accurately install underground fiber conduit and larger-diameter pipe. The ideal candidate can independently locate ...

Turner Mining Group

Directional Drilling Locator

Harmony, MN · On-site

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

This individual will work closely with an experienced drill operator to safely and accurately install underground fiber conduit and larger-diameter pipe. The ideal candidate can independently locate ...

Turner Mining Group

$22 - $27/hr

This individual will work closely with an experienced drill operator to safely and accurately install underground fiber conduit and larger-diameter pipe. The ideal candidate can independently locate ...

Turner Mining Group

Directional Drilling Locator

Harmony, MN

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

This individual will work closely with an experienced drill operator to safely and accurately install underground fiber conduit and larger-diameter pipe. The ideal candidate can independently locate ...

Timberline Drilling

Driller's Assistant

Kellogg, ID · On-site

$90K/yr

... mining operations nationwide, including Alaska. This is a great opportunity to start at an ... Job Duties * Assist Drill Operator: Support core drill operators in setting up and operating ...

Timberline Drilling

Driller's Assistant

Elko, NV · On-site

$90K/yr

... mining operations nationwide, including Alaska. This is a great opportunity to start at an ... Job Duties * Assist Drill Operator: Support core drill operators in setting up and operating ...

Timberline Drilling

Driller's Assistant

Juneau, AK · On-site

$90K/yr

... mining operations nationwide, including Alaska. This is a great opportunity to start at an ... Job Duties * Assist Drill Operator: Support core drill operators in setting up and operating ...

Timberline Drilling

Driller's Assistant

Virginia, MN · On-site

$90K/yr

... mining operations nationwide, including Alaska. This is a great opportunity to start at an ... Job Duties * Assist Drill Operator: Support core drill operators in setting up and operating ...

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All JobsDrill Operator Mining Jobs

Drill Operator Mining information

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$13

$27

$51

How much do drill operator mining jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for drill operator mining 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 does a drill operator in mining do?

A Drill Operator in mining is responsible for operating drilling equipment to bore holes into the earth for extracting minerals, ores, or other geological materials. They interpret drilling plans, set up and maintain machinery, and monitor drilling operations to ensure safety and efficiency. Drill Operators also collect samples for analysis, document drilling progress, and follow strict safety protocols to minimize risks on site. Their work is crucial for the exploration and extraction phases of mining projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drill operator in mining?

To thrive as a Drill Operator in mining, you need mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional vocational training often preferred. Familiarity with drilling rigs, GPS navigation systems, and safety certifications such as MSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork help operators adapt to challenging environments and maintain high safety standards. These competencies ensure efficient operation, minimize downtime, and promote safety in potentially hazardous mining sites.

What are some typical challenges a drill operator in mining might face on the job?

Drill Operators in mining often encounter challenges such as working in remote or harsh environments, maintaining equipment functionality under rigorous conditions, and adhering strictly to safety protocols. Managing fatigue from long shifts and adjusting to variable schedules can also be demanding. Additionally, coordinating closely with geological and blasting teams is essential to ensure drilling accuracy and project efficiency.

How to become a drill operator mining?

To become a drill operator in mining, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete specialized training or certification in operating drilling equipment. Experience with heavy machinery, knowledge of safety procedures, and physical fitness are also important for working in this environment.

What is the difference between Drill Operator Mining vs Blaster in Mining?

AspectDrill Operator MiningBlaster in Mining
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, equipment operation trainingSimilar certifications, specialized blasting licenses
Work EnvironmentUnderground or surface mining sites, heavy machineryUnderground or surface, handling explosives
Job RoleOperate drilling equipment to create holes for blasting or explorationPrepare and execute controlled explosions to break rock
Industry UsageCommonly employed in mining operations for drillingUsed in blasting operations within mining

Both Drill Operator Mining and Blaster in Mining work in mining environments, often requiring safety certifications and equipment operation skills. While drill operators focus on drilling holes, blasters handle explosives for rock fragmentation. Understanding these roles helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the mining industry.

More about Drill Operator Mining jobs
What cities are hiring for Drill Operator Mining jobs? Cities with the most Drill Operator Mining job openings:
What states have the most Drill Operator Mining jobs? States with the most job openings for Drill Operator Mining jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Drill Operator Mining jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Drill Operator Mining jobs are:
Drill Operator Mining jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drill Operator Mining job openings in the United States 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 $57,917 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Rock Drill Operator (Junior / Mid-Level Driller)

3 Rivers Drilling and Blasting

Salt Lake City, UT • On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description



3-Rivers Drilling & BlastingRock Drill Operator (Junior / Mid-Level Driller)

Location: Based in Central Utah (Delta area, Saratoga Springs) or Southern Nevada and Southern Utah; travel required to project sites across Utah and Nevada.

Precision. Power. Safety. Done Right.3-Rivers Drilling & Blasting has been serving the Western U.S. since 1997. We're known for professional, safe, accurate work, and we're fully licensed and properly insured/bonded for every project we take on.

You'll support mining and civil drilling projects while building your skills as a rock drill operator. This role is ideal for someone with some drilling or heavy equipment experience who's ready to grow into a senior driller. Work may include day/night shifts, long hours, and overtime depending on project needs.

Key responsibilitiesOperate rock drills safely and efficiently under the direction of a lead driller
  • Assist with setup, tool changes, greasing, and daily equipment checks
  • Read/monitor ground conditions and communicate changes to the crew
  • Perform daily inspections and basic maintenance/upkeep
  • Follow MSHA/safety policies and maintain clean documentation as required
Qualifications
  • 1 to 3+ years of drilling experience preferred (or related heavy equipment experience)
  • Exposure to Sandvik Di650 Leopard DTH Rigs or similar and/or Sandvik DP1500i Top Hammer Rigs or similar is a plus
  • Willingness to learn, take direction, and work toward production targets
  • Clean driving record + reliable transportation to/from job sites
  • MSHA 5000-23 Experienced Miner preferred; strong safety mindset required
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and work outdoors in varying and remote conditions, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Pay and benefits
  • Full-time, W-2 Employment
  • Pay: $26 to $30 per hour (based on experience)
  • Health insurance (employee participation) + PTO after 1 year (40 hours)
  • Overtime paid in accordance with state and federal law.
  • 8-12 hour shifts, night shifts may be required


Why 3-Rivers Drilling & BlastingAt 3-Rivers, safety isn't a slogan, it's a standard, backed by training and supervision. You'll work with a team that's transitioned from informal practices to a more professional, disciplined operation focused on safety, production, and camaraderie. Projects vary, so your work stays interesting and your skills keep growing. If you take pride in doing the job right, you'll fit in here.

3-Rivers Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds.