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Drill Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Summit Interconnect, Inc.

Drill Operator

Anaheim, CA

$18 - $23/hr

Summit Anaheim currently has an open position for Drill Operator (1st shift). Summit Interconnect is a manufacturer of advanced technology printed circuit boards with a specific focus on complex ...

Dyno Nobel

Driller / Drill Operator

Corona, CA · On-site

$19/hr

Job Brief Operate applicable drill equipment in a safe, reliable, timely and professional manner. Assist the operator in the safe operation of the drill rig and drill truck. The pay for this role is ...

Sanmina

NC Drill Operator (Swing)

San Jose, CA · On-site

$41K - $45K/yr

NC Drill Operator Job Purpose The primary function of this position will be performing mechanical drilling on printed circuit boards. Nature of Duties/Responsibilities We are currently looking for an ...

AdvancedPCB

Drill Operator | 3rd Shift

Orange, CA · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

The Drill Operator uses Computer Numerical Control (CNC) equipment to drill high-precision holes into rigid and rigid-flex multilayer printed circuit boards (PCBs) (a flat laminated substrate ...

MP Nexlevel

DB OPERATOR/DRILL LOCATOR

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

The role of a Horizontal/Directional Drill Operator and Locator includes operating horizontal/directional drill rigs, locating equipment and product support equipment. Perform semi-skilled activities ...

VAST Networks

Be Seen First

HDD horizontal direction drill operator

Fresno, CA · On-site

$27 - $38/hr

Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) Operator We are seeking a Drill Operator to join our team in Fresno, CA . In this role you will operate drilling equipment to complete assigned projects and ...

MP

DB OPERATOR/DRILL LOCATOR

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

The role of a Horizontal/Directional Drill Operator and Locator includes operating horizontal/directional drill rigs, locating equipment and product support equipment. Perform semi-skilled activities ...

MP NEXLEVEL LLC

DB OPERATOR/DRILL LOCATOR

Merced, CA

$25 - $40/hr

The role of a Horizontal/Directional Drill Operator and Locator includes operating horizontal/directional drill rigs, locating equipment and product support equipment. Perform semi-skilled activities ...

MP

DB OPERATOR/DRILL LOCATOR

Merced, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

The role of a Horizontal/Directional Drill Operator and Locator includes operating horizontal/directional drill rigs, locating equipment and product support equipment. Perform semi-skilled activities ...

MP Nexlevel

DB OPERATOR/DRILL LOCATOR

Merced, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

The role of a Horizontal/Directional Drill Operator and Locator includes operating horizontal/directional drill rigs, locating equipment and product support equipment. Perform semi-skilled activities ...

MP NEXLEVEL LLC

DB OPERATOR/DRILL LOCATOR

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

The role of a Horizontal/Directional Drill Operator and Locator includes operating horizontal/directional drill rigs, locating equipment and product support equipment. Perform semi-skilled activities ...

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Drill Operator information

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$13

$27

$50

How much do drill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for drill operator in California is $27.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.62 and $30.62 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 California?

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

What job categories do people searching Drill Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Drill Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Drill Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Drill Operator job openings:

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

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

Drill Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drill Operator 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 $57,158 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Horizontal Directional Drill Operator

Stockton, CA

Essel
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Esselexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Job Title:

Horizontal Directional Drill Operator

Job Summary:

Essel is seeking a skilled Horizontal Directional Drill Operator to join our team. The successful candidate will operate horizontal directional drilling equipment to install underground utilities in a safe, efficient, and precise manner. This role requires excellent technical skills, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to safety and teamwork.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Operate horizontal directional drilling machines to install pipelines, cables, conduits, and other underground utilities.
  • Conduct pre-operation inspections and routine maintenance on drilling equipment to ensure functionality and safety.
  • Read and interpret project plans, blueprints, and specifications to determine drilling locations and alignments.
  • Monitor drilling operations, adjusting equipment and processes to meet project specifications and overcome obstacles.
  • Communicate effectively with crew members and supervisors to coordinate work and promote a safe working environment.
  • Follow all safety protocols and regulatory requirements to minimize risk and maintain compliance.
  • Assist in training and mentoring junior operators or crew members as necessary.
Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum 3 years of experience operating horizontal directional drilling equipment.
  • Strong understanding of drilling processes, equipment, and safety standards.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and site plans.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Capability to work in outdoor environments and physically demanding conditions.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Requirements

  • Valid driver's license and clean driving record.
  • Certification or training specific to horizontal directional drilling preferred.
  • Willingness to work flexible hours, including overtime and weekends as required.
  • Experience working on utility installation projects is highly desirable.
  • Ability to comply with all company safety policies and regulatory standards.

Join Essel and contribute to important infrastructure projects while advancing your career in the heavy equipment industry.

Benefits

  • Consistent work opportunities across multiple projects
  • Weekly pay
  • Opportunity for overtime
  • Room for advancement into skilled trades
Essel logo

About Essel

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services and temporary help services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

San Francisco, CA, US

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