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Drill Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mears Construction

Drill Operator

San Antonio, TX · On-site

HORIZONTAL DIRECTIONAL DRILL OPERATOR We are looking to hire a Horizontal Directional Drill Operator in San Antonio, Tx . As a Driller, you will be responsible for operating the drilling equipment ...

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Naples, FL

$250 - $300/day

Utilities One is seeking an experienced Drill Operator to join our team in the Florida Region . This role is ideal for candidates with strong experience in Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) and ...

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Fort Wayne, IN

$300 - $400/day

Utilities One is seeking an experienced Drill Operator to join our team in the Indiana Region . This role is ideal for candidates with strong experience in Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) and ...

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Tampa, FL

$2.0K - $4.0K/wk

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

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Utilities One

Drill Operator

Miami, FL

$2.0K - $4.0K/wk

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

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Zemer Arizona Inc

Be Seen First

DRILL OPERATOR

Paulden, AZ · On-site

$24 - $27/hr

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.

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Utilities One

Drill Operator

Portland, OR

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 ...

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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 ...

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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 ...

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Utilities One

Drill Operator

Vancouver, WA

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 ...

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Utilities One

Drill Operator

Seattle, WA

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 ...

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TD&I Cable

Underground Drill Operator

Hudson, WI · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

Description Job Overview The Underground Utility Drill Operator is responsible for operating directional drill rigs, locating equipment, and product support equipment. This role is crucial in the ...

Essel

Horizontal Directional Drill Operator

Manassas, VA · On-site

Job Title: Horizontal Directional Drill Operator Company: Essel Overview: Essel is looking for an experienced Horizontal Directional Drill Operator to support our infrastructure projects. The ...

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Zemer Arizona Inc

Be Seen First

DRILL OPERATOR

Paulden, AZ · On-site

$24 - $27/hr

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.

Apply Early

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All JobsDrill Operator Jobs

Drill Operator information

See salary details

$13

$27

$51

How much do drill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for drill operator 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 type of drilling pays the most?

In the drilling industry, specialized roles such as directional drillers, offshore drillers, and those working in deepwater or complex environments tend to earn the highest wages. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and experience, and may involve working in challenging conditions or remote locations, which contribute to higher pay rates.

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.

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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Drill operators in specialized industries such as oil and gas extraction can earn around $4,000 or more per week, especially with experience and certifications like OSHA safety training. High-paying skilled trades, including certain construction or mining roles, may also reach this level without requiring a college degree, but they often demand technical skills and physical endurance.

How much does a drill rig operator earn?

A drill rig operator's average salary varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 annually. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy equipment may earn higher wages, especially in industries like construction, mining, or oil and gas. Overtime and shift work can also impact total earnings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drill Operator, and why are they important?

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 Drill Operators?

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.
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What are popular job titles related to Drill Operator jobs? For Drill Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Drill Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drill Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 15% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,917 per year, or $27.8 per hour.
Underground Drill Operator

Underground Drill Operator

TD&I Cable Maintenance, Inc.

Hudson, WI • On-site

$23 - $30/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

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Job description

Description:

Job Overview

The Underground Utility Drill Operator is responsible for operating directional drill rigs, locating equipment, and product support equipment. This role is crucial in the installation of underground conduits, cables, and other utilities with minimal surface disruption, ensuring compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations. The Drill Operator must possess excavation knowledge on OSHA regulations and safe excavation practices – benching, shoring, and excavating around live underground utilities. This role works closely with the Foreman on identifying potential hazards in excavation and conducts job site analysis. This role also often fills in for the Foreman when the Foreman is required to be off site.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Operate horizontal directional drill equipment to install underground utilities such as telecommunications.
  • Perform daily inspections and maintenance on the equipment to ensure operational safety and efficiency.
  • Read and interpret utility maps, plans, and blueprints to identify the correct location for installation and avoid existing utility infrastructure.
  • Set up and clean up the job site, including loading and unloading equipment, materials, and tools.
  • Coordinate with utility companies and other contractors to confirm locations of existing utilities and avoid service disruptions or damages.
  • Ensure all installations meet quality and regulatory standards, as well as customer requirements.
  • Works closely with Foreman and crew.
  • Additionally, if operating commercial vehicle and trailer combinations over 26,000 LBS, drivers are required to have and maintain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with a tanker endorsement, per FMCSA/DOT guidelines.


Requirements:

Minimum Skills & Experience Required:

  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Valid driver's license with minimal traffic violations in the past three years.
  • Able to obtain a DOT medical card.
  • Proven experience as a Utility Drill Operator.
  • Translate and troubleshoot design prints, locate tickets, and permits.
  • Excellent organizational and leadership skills.
  • Ability to communicate and report effectively, problem solving abilities.
  • Able to read, understand, and follow standard operating procedures for the operation of projects and associated equipment.
  • Excellent communication, time management, multi-tasking, and problem skills.
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • Good physical condition and stamina.

Preferred Skills & Experience:

  • 5+ years of experience as a Utility Drill Operator.
  • In-depth knowledge of construction procedures, equipment, OSHA, and FMCSA/DOT guidelines.