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Drill Rig Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Civil Constructors

Track Drill Operator

Franklin, TN · On-site

Track Drill Operator - Blasting Crew Civil Constructors Job Summary Civil Constructors is hiring a ... Position and level the rig safely on uneven or rocky terrain under the direction of the drill ...

ECS Ltd

Driller

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

$19.75 - $27/hr

Operating Geoprobe unit for the collection of soil and Cone Penetrometer (CPT) data * Locating ... Perform drill rig and support truck maintenance- Reporting all repair and maintenance issues to the ...

ECS Ltd

Driller

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

$19.75 - $27/hr

Operating Geoprobe unit for the collection of soil and Cone Penetrometer (CPT) data * Locating ... Perform drill rig and support truck maintenance- Reporting all repair and maintenance issues to the ...

TEC Industrial

Civil Journeyman

Erwin, TN · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

... drilling, or cutting holes in panels for electrical outlets, air-conditioning units, and plumbing ... May be required to rig and signal form placement. * Able to comply with company and site Safety ...

T E C Industrial

Civil Journeyman

Erwin, TN · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

... drilling, or cutting holes in panels for electrical outlets, air-conditioning units, and plumbing ... May be required to rig and signal form placement. * Able to comply with company and site Safety ...

HGC

Structural Steel Tech

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

Rig steel components for crane lifting and guide their positioning and alignment during ... Operate fabricating equipment including shears, rollers, flame cutters, and drill presses

Huseman Group

Structural Steel Tech

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

Rig steel components for crane lifting and guide their positioning and alignment during ... Operate fabricating equipment including shears, rollers, flame cutters, and drill presses

All JobsDrill Rig Operator JobsDrill Rig Operator Jobs in Tennessee

Drill Rig Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$11

$25

$46

How much do drill rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for drill rig operator in Tennessee is $25.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $28.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drill rig operator?

A Drill Rig Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining drilling equipment to bore holes for various purposes, such as mining, construction, or oil and gas extraction. They set up, position, and control drilling rigs, monitor operations, and ensure safety protocols are followed. Operators must have technical knowledge of machinery, the ability to read blueprints, and an understanding of soil and rock formations. The role often requires physical endurance and adherence to strict safety regulations.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a drill rig operator?

As a Drill Rig Operator, your daily responsibilities typically include setting up, operating, and maintaining drilling rigs, monitoring equipment performance, and adhering to strict safety protocols. You'll often work closely with a team of drillers, assistants, and engineers, collaborating to ensure precise drilling according to project specifications. Regular tasks may also involve equipment inspections, troubleshooting mechanical issues, and recording drilling data. The role requires adaptability, as you may work in varying weather conditions and different locations, depending on the project.

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

To thrive as a Drill Rig Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and a solid understanding of drilling processes, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with heavy machinery, safety regulations such as OSHA, and certifications like a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and attention to detail are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies enable safe, efficient drilling operations and effective teamwork in demanding outdoor environments.

How do I become a drill rig operator?

To become a drill rig operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and on-the-job training or an apprenticeship to learn operating procedures and safety protocols. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the region, and familiarity with machinery, tools, and safety standards is essential.

What do you need to be a drill rig operator?

To become a drill rig operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with training in operating drilling equipment. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the industry and location, and physical stamina and safety awareness are important for working in demanding environments.

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

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

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

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

Drill Rig Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drill Rig Operator job openings in Tennessee 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 $52,566 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

Track Drill Operator

Franklin, TN • On-site

Civil Constructors
Construction • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Civil Constructorsexternal

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Track Drill Operator - Blasting Crew
Civil Constructors
Job Summary
Civil Constructors is hiring a Track Drill Operator to join our blasting crew. In this role, you'll operate a track-mounted drill rig to bore blast-hole patterns that support surface excavation, quarry, and site development work.
What You'll Do
  • Operate a track-mounted drill rig to drill blast holes to the depth, angle, and spacing specified in the blast pattern layout.
  • Position and level the rig safely on uneven or rocky terrain under the direction of the drill foreman.
  • Monitor drilling parameters (penetration rate, air/water pressure, rotation) and adjust technique for changing ground conditions.
  • Identify and report changes in rock conditions (voids, water, seams, or unusually hard or soft ground) to the foreman or licensed blaster.
  • Perform daily pre- and post-shift inspections, greasing, and basic maintenance on the drill rig and support equipment.
  • Handle and transport drill steel, bits, rods, and related tooling.
  • Assist the blasting crew with hole cleaning, stemming, and other support tasks as directed by the licensed blaster-in-charge (no explosives handling required unless separately certified).
  • Maintain accurate drill logs, including hole depth, location, and any conditions encountered.
  • Follow all MSHA/OSHA regulations, site-specific safety plans, and company safety procedures at all times.
  • Participate in daily tailgate safety meetings and site orientations.
  • Keep the drill site and surrounding work area clean and organized.
  • Travel between active job sites as assigned.What We're Looking For
    No prior track drill experience is required but preferred. We train the right candidate. We're looking for someone who brings:
  • High school diploma or GED, or equivalent work experience.
  • Willingness to learn to operate heavy drilling equipment.
  • Comfort working outdoors in all weather conditions, on uneven terrain, and around heavy equipment.
  • Strong attention to safety procedures and ability to follow detailed instructions.
  • Basic mechanical aptitude for routine equipment checks and maintenance.
  • Reliable transportation and ability to travel to job sites, which may vary by project.
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen.Preferred (Not Required)
  • Prior experience with heavy equipment operation (drills, excavators, loaders, or similar).
  • Current MSHA certification or state blaster's license/apprenticeship.
  • Background in construction, quarrying, mining, or a related field.Physical Requirements
  • Regularly lift and carry up to 50 lbs (drill steel, bits, tooling, and supplies).
  • Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) on site, including hearing and eye protection, hard hat, and steel-toe boots.
  • Tolerate exposure to dust, noise, and vibration typical of drilling operations.

In compliance with Federal and State equal employment opportunity laws, qualified applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, veteran status, non-job related disability, or any other protected group status.
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