ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Drill Operator Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Salem, OR · On-site

$2.0K - $4.0K/wk

Drill Operator Department: Operations Employment Type: Contract Location: United States - Salem, OR Reporting To: Denis Mezer Compensation: $2,000 - $4,000 / week Description Utilities One is seeking ...

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$300 - $350/day

Drill Operator Department: Operations Employment Type: Contract Location: United States - Portland, OR Reporting To: Denis Mezer Compensation: $300 - $350 / day Description Utilities One is seeking ...

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$2.0K - $4.0K/wk

Drill Operator Department: Operations Employment Type: Contract Location: United States - Portland, OR Reporting To: Denis Mezer Compensation: $2,000 - $4,000 / week Description Utilities One is ...

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Portland, OR

$300 - $350/day

Utilities One is seeking an experienced Drill Operator with Spanish language skills to join our team in the Pacific Northwest Region . This role is ideal for candidates with strong experience in ...

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Portland, OR

Utilities One is seeking an experienced Drill Operator to join our team in the Pacific Northwest Region . This role is ideal for candidates with strong experience in Horizontal Directional Drilling ...

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Salem, OR · On-site

Description Utilities One is seeking an experienced Drill Operator to join our team in the Pacific Northwest Region . This role is ideal for candidates with strong experience in Horizontal ...

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

Description Utilities One is seeking an experienced Drill Operator with Spanish language skills to join our team in the Pacific Northwest Region . This role is ideal for candidates with strong ...

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Portland, OR

Description Utilities One is seeking an experienced Drill Operator with Spanish language skills to join our team in the Pacific Northwest Region . This role is ideal for candidates with strong ...

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Salem, OR

Utilities One is seeking an experienced Drill Operator to join our team in the Pacific Northwest Region . This role is ideal for candidates with strong experience in Horizontal Directional Drilling ...

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

Description Utilities One is seeking an experienced Drill Operator to join our team in the Pacific Northwest Region . This role is ideal for candidates with strong experience in Horizontal ...

GridSource

Directional Drill Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$40/hr

Operating drill and/or locating equipment: 3 years * Operating Ditch Witch and Vermeer Drilling equipment (JT5 / D10x15): 2 years Why Work for GridSource & its family of companies? GridSource is a ...

Integrity Infrastructure

Driller/Locator

Sherwood, OR · On-site

$27 - $35/hr

The role of a Drill Operator and Locator includes operating directional drill rigs, locating equipment, and product support equipment. Must be familiar with industry standards, policies, guidelines ...

GridSource

Directional Drill Locator

Portland, OR · On-site

$40/hr

Operating drill and/or locating equipment: 3 years * Operating Ditch Witch and Vermeer Drilling equipment (JT5 / D10x15): 2 years * May be required to work within limited confines, such as crawl ...

AKITA Drilling

Driller

Bend, OR · On-site

$48.50/hr

... the drill floor. DUTIES INCLUDE: Lead crew meetings on Safe Work Procedures. Supervise crew on ... operators around the world. We pride ourselves on building relationships with our clients and see ...

Valley Well Drilling, LLC

Water Well Driller

Portland, OR · On-site

$55K - $100K/yr

Oahu and Kauai Pay: ($55,000 - $100,000 per year) based on experience Overview We are seeking a skilled and dedicated Drill Rig Operator to join our team in the water well industry located in Hawaii.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDrill Operator JobsDrill Operator Jobs in Oregon

Drill Operator information

See Oregon salary details

$13

$29

$54

How much do drill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for drill operator in Oregon is $29.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $32.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you 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 following safety protocols. The career can offer stable employment and competitive wages, especially with experience and certifications, but it also involves physically demanding work and potential hazards. Job prospects depend on industry demand and regional economic factors.

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.

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 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 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 popular job titles related to Drill Operator jobs in Oregon? For Drill Operator jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drill Operator jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Drill Operator jobs in Oregon are:
What are popular job titles related to Drill Operator jobs in OR? For Drill Operator jobs in OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Drill Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drill Operator job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,235 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

Drill Operator

Utilities One

Salem, OR • On-site

$2.0K - $4.0K/wk

Contractor

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Drill Operator
Department: Operations
Employment Type: Contract
Location: United States - Salem, OR
Reporting To: Denis Mezer
Compensation: $2,000 - $4,000 / week
Description
Utilities One is seeking an experienced Drill Operator to join our team in the Pacific Northwest Region. This role is ideal for candidates with strong experience in Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) and underground utility installation, who are ready to work in a fast-paced environment and contribute to high-quality infrastructure projects across the Pacific Northwest.
Key Responsibilities
  • Perform preparatory work before drilling operations;
  • Operate Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) machines for underground cable installation;
  • Install underground utilities, including boring, trenching, and related tasks;
  • Operate and locate utilities using an appropriate locating system;
  • Remove and transfer poles, set and install new underground cables;
  • Ensure proper clearances and compliance with installation standards;
  • Maintain the safety of the public and protect underground utility facilities;
  • Analyze job sites and complete required paperwork and documentation;
  • Investigate company service complaints and perform necessary repairs;
  • Travel to job sites as needed and perform assigned tasks with high quality and professionalism;
  • Perform other duties as assigned to support successful project completion.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
  • At least 3 years of HDD/Drilling experience;
  • Valid Class A CDL required;
  • Proven experience operating heavy construction equipment, especially drilling and boring machinery;
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering plans and specifications;
  • Ability to sit, stand, bend, walk, and ride in vehicles for extended periods;
  • Willingness to work in all-weather environments and travel as needed.

Benefits
  • Competitive compensation;
  • Weekly payments (every Friday);
  • All equipment and tools provided;
  • Career advancement opportunities;
  • Weekly pay range varies depending on productivity (paid per foot).

Apply