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Drill Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

DRILL OPERATOR

Paulden, AZ ยท On-site

$24 - $27/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are looking for experienced operators to operate an Epiroc T35 Drill with Top Hammer within the construction/mining industry. We have immediate openings, and the starting pay is $24 - $27/HR DOE.

DRILL OPERATOR

Paulden, AZ ยท On-site

$24 - $27/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are looking for experienced operators to operate an Epiroc T35 Drill with Top Hammer within the construction/mining industry. We have immediate openings, and the starting pay is $24 - $27/HR DOE.

Duties and responsibilities The following is a brief list of duties and responsibilities that a Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) Operator / Locator will need to carry out, including but not limited ...

Directional Drill Operator

Mesa, AZ ยท On-site

$38 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Horizontal Directional Drill Operator plays a critical role in delivering reliable infrastructure by collaborating closely with field leadership, interpreting plans, and executing work ...

Directional Drill Operator

Mesa, AZ ยท On-site

$38 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Horizontal Directional Drill Operator plays a critical role in delivering reliable infrastructure by collaborating closely with field leadership, interpreting plans, and executing work ...

Drilling Services Operator Department: Drilling Reports to: Drilling Superintendent Location ... Perform routine maintenance, minor repairs and troubleshoot on drill services equipment to ensure ...

Drilling Services Operator Department: Drilling Reports to: Drilling Superintendent Location ... Perform routine maintenance, minor repairs and troubleshoot on drill services equipment to ensure ...

Directional Drill Locator

Tucson, AZ ยท On-site

$26 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Directional Drill Operator/Locator , you will develop new skills, work in a safety-minded environment, and join us in expanding technology for a better community. Join the MasTec family and help ...

General Summary The Drill Tech assists the Driller in conducting drilling operations and performing routine mechanical tasks at water well drill sites. Essential Job Accountabilities * Ensure ...

Directional Drill Locator

Chandler, AZ ยท On-site

$24 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... operating trenchers, plows, backhoes, and bobcats 4. Operate tampers, jackhammers, drills, and saws when needed Requirements & Qualifications 1. Must have 2+ years of horizontal directional drilling ...

Directional Drill Locator

Tucson, AZ

$26 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Directional Drill Operator/Locator , you will develop new skills, work in a safety-minded environment, and join us in expanding technology for a better community. Join the MasTec family and help ...

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Showing results 1-20

Drill Operator information

See Arizona salary details

$12

$25

$47

How much do drill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for drill operator in Arizona is $25.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $28.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drill operator?

Drill Operators are skilled workers who operate drilling machinery used to bore holes in the earth for purposes such as exploration, construction, mining, or extraction of natural resources. They are responsible for setting up, maintaining, and safely operating drilling rigs, monitoring equipment, and ensuring the drilling process runs smoothly. Drill Operators often work in challenging environments and must adhere to strict safety protocols. Their role may also include performing routine maintenance on equipment and troubleshooting issues that arise during drilling operations.

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

To thrive as a Drill Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, experience with drilling equipment, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with drilling rigs, safety protocols, and certifications such as OSHA or MSHA are often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and precise drilling operations in potentially hazardous environments.

What are some common challenges faced by drill operators in the field, and how can they be managed?

Drill Operators often encounter challenges such as working in difficult weather conditions, maintaining equipment reliability, and adhering to strict safety protocols. These can be managed by consistently following maintenance schedules, staying up to date with safety training, and communicating effectively with team members to address issues promptly. A proactive approach to equipment checks and a strong safety mindset help ensure both productivity and well-being on the job site.

What is the difference between Drill Operator vs Drilling Rig Worker?

AspectDrill OperatorDrilling Rig Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma, OSHA safety training, possibly certification in drilling operationsHigh school diploma, safety training, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentOperate drilling machinery on construction sites, oil fields, or mining locationsAssist with rig setup, maintenance, and support tasks on drilling sites
Industry UsageCommonly employed in oil & gas, construction, mining industriesTypically found in oil & gas, mining, and construction sectors

While both roles work on drilling sites, the Drill Operator primarily operates and controls drilling equipment, whereas the Drilling Rig Worker supports the operation through maintenance and assistance tasks. The Drill Operator usually has more specialized training and responsibility for the drilling process.

How to become a drill operator?

To become a drill operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or an apprenticeship to learn how to operate drilling equipment safely. Some employers may require certification in equipment operation or safety procedures, and physical fitness is often necessary due to the demanding nature of the work environment.

Is drilling a good career?

Drill operators play a key role in industries such as construction, mining, and oil and gas extraction, often working with heavy equipment and requiring safety training and certifications. The career can offer stable employment and competitive wages, but it may involve physically demanding work, irregular hours, and exposure to hazardous conditions.

What are popular job titles related to Drill Operator jobs in AZ?

For Drill Operator jobs in AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Drill Operator job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,972 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

DRILL OPERATOR

Zemer Arizona Inc

Paulden, AZ โ€ข On-site

$24 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 hours ago


Job description

We are looking for experienced operators to operate an Epiroc T35 Drill with Top Hammer within the construction/mining industry. We have immediate openings, and the starting pay is $24 - $27/HR DOE.

Established mining company (25+ years in business) seeking a Drill Operator familiar with working in a surface mining environment

·       Key responsibilities:

·       Operate drilling equipment to bore holes in the ground for blasting

·       Inspect and maintain equipment

·       Ability to interpret drill plans and specifications to ensure correct depth, angle and diameter of holes drilled

·       Adhere to all safety regulations, policies, and guidelines

·       Other duties as required

Located North of Paulden – we are contracted with Drake Cement to run their quarry

·       Must be dependable, motivated and a team player

·       Drug free work environment including pre-employment and random drug testing

·       Must be 18 years of age or older due to the nature of the business

We offer:

·       Competitive salary, depending on experience

·       Full time, permanent employment

·       Paid vacation after one (1) year of employment

·       Paid sick time after 90 days

·       Health insurance covered 100% for employees after 90 days

·       HSA (Health Savings Account) with generous Company contribution

·       401(k) with 3% company match after six (6) months of employment

·       Yearly allowance for winter clothing, boots, prescription glasses

·       Paid holidays after 90 days

·       Personal Protective Equipment, Task and MSHA Training provided

·       Safe work environment is priority


Interested applicants please apply and email resume to lisa.harper@zemer.net.  Minimum experience required is 2 years operating experience.

Company Description

We are a rock quarry/mine that provides limestone to Drake Cement.