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Drilling Apprentice Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Communication Apprentice

Tysons, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Assisting in Core Drilling * Assisting in the installation of Cable Tray. * Installing Devices ... Apprentices must be able to follow directions to install a quality product under the guidance of ...

Apprentice Machinist

Cortland, IL · On-site

$10 - $12/hr

Apprentice Machinist - Job Responsibilities: This position is full-time and works approximately 40 ... Operates the CNC milling machine, lathe, drill-press, sander, buffer, bench grinder and various ...

Driller

Mount Juliet, TN

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

Operates drilling equipment to create boreholes for various construction purposes. * Basic ... including apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship and/or on-the-job training. We encourage current ...

Driller

Mount Juliet, TN · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Operates drilling equipment to create boreholes for various construction purposes. * Basic ... including apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship and/or on-the-job training. We encourage current ...

Driller

Mount Juliet, TN · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Operates drilling equipment to create boreholes for various construction purposes. * Basic ... including apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship and/or on-the-job training. We encourage current ...

Carpenter Apprentice

Lincoln, NE

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

... sanders, drill presses, fall protection equipment, rigging, and form systems) Repetitive hand, arm, leg movements *Lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling: up to 50 lbs. Please note: this position ...

Carpenter Apprentice

Washington, DC

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Blackwood of DC - Urgent Carpenter Apprentice Opportunity! Are you looking for a dynamic and ... Operates drill/saw as required. * Care for tools and equipment. * Keeps materials stocked for ...

Apprentice Plumber is needed. Heimes Corporation is seeking qualified personnel to assist the ... Excavating, Underground Utilities, Recycled Concrete, Plumbing, Directional Drilling, Underground ...

Apprentice Plumber is needed. Heimes Corporation is seeking qualified personnel to assist the ... Excavating, Underground Utilities, Recycled Concrete, Plumbing, Directional Drilling, Underground ...

Carpenter Apprentice

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

SUMMARY Mortenson is currently seeking a Carpenter Apprentice I, II, III, IV that will be ... drill presses, fall protection equipment, rigging, and form systems) • Repetitive hand, arm, leg ...

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Drilling Apprentice information

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$13

$20

$29

How much do drilling apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling apprentice in the United States is $20.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Drilling Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of mechanical systems, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional vocational training often preferred. Familiarity with drilling machinery, safety protocols, and tools such as torque wrenches and drilling rigs is typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn are standout soft skills in this entry-level role. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining safety, efficiency, and successful progression to more advanced drilling positions.

What can I expect in terms of mentorship and hands-on learning as a Drilling Apprentice?

As a Drilling Apprentice, you will typically work closely with experienced drillers and crew members who provide guidance and on-the-job training. Most apprenticeship programs emphasize hands-on learning, allowing you to operate equipment under supervision, assist with site preparation, and perform routine maintenance tasks. You'll often rotate through different responsibilities to gain a well-rounded understanding of drilling operations. Open communication and a willingness to ask questions are encouraged, as learning from seasoned professionals is a key part of your development in this role.

What are Drilling Apprentices?

Drilling Apprentices are entry-level workers who learn the skills and knowledge needed to operate drilling equipment, typically in industries such as oil and gas, mining, or construction. They work under the supervision of experienced drillers, assisting with tasks like setting up rigs, maintaining equipment, and ensuring safety procedures are followed. Over time, apprentices gain hands-on experience and may progress to more advanced roles as they demonstrate competence and complete required training.

What is the difference between Drilling Apprentice vs Drilling Operator?

AspectDrilling ApprenticeDrilling Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, basic safety training, apprenticeship programHigh school diploma, technical training, certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentOn-site at drilling rigs, supervised learning settingOn-site at drilling rigs, responsible for operating equipment
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level role in oil & gas, mining, or construction industriesOperational role in oil & gas, mining, or construction industries

The main difference is that a Drilling Apprentice is an entry-level trainee learning the basics of drilling operations, often under supervision, while a Drilling Operator is a more experienced worker responsible for operating drilling equipment independently. Apprenticeship programs prepare individuals for the role of Drilling Operator, who typically has more hands-on responsibilities and technical skills.

More about Drilling Apprentice jobs
What cities are hiring for Drilling Apprentice jobs? Cities with the most Drilling Apprentice job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drilling jobs? The most popular types of Drilling jobs are:
What states have the most Drilling Apprentice jobs? States with the most job openings for Drilling Apprentice jobs include:
Infographic showing various Drilling Apprentice job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,951 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

$10 - $12/hr

Full-time

Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Ace Machine & Tool, Inc. does what it takes to deliver accurately machined products with reliable service and innovative designs that solve problems. We provide affordable engineering and collaboration services for close tolerance, low volume prototypes and production of 1-10,000 parts.
 

Job Description

Ace Machine & Tool - 1st Shift only - Mon-Fri 7AM-3:30PM, Cortland, IL (50 miles West of Chicago, near DeKalb, IL).  Must be reliable and on-time for work, valid Illinois driver's license, clean driving record and background check.

Apprentice Machinist - Job Responsibilities:

This position is full-time and works approximately 40 hours per week, with occasional overtime on weekdays and/or weekends.  Includes Apprenticeship Program with a clear career path to Certified Machinist through the TMA, earned through dedication and a strong work ethic.  Apprentice classes to start in Autumn 2018 on weekday evenings.  Clean, modern and progressive Machine Shop concentrating on prototypes, design, engineering and production as an OEM for medical, aerospace, government, auto and food industries.
 

Position Description:  The Apprentice Machinist will be responsible to setup, produce, troubleshoot, and verify that parts conform to drawings, processes and procedures. The Apprentice will be required to be versatile within a production environment and learn the various equipment as required.  Skills to develop include a working knowledge of CAD/CAM, SurfCam, DraftSight, G-Code and AutoCad software.  Work is performed inside a clean, air conditioned and heated environment though typical coolants, metal chips and oil will be part of the process of making machined parts. 

Expectations:  Willingness and ability to learn, read, follow and interpret drawings, processes and procedures.  Training will be focused on setting up machining jobs efficiently on the manufacturing floor.  Applicant must possess intermediate math skills, ability to communicate with others, and engage in process improvements.  Appropriately use all inspection equipment and sample features to verify conformance as required.  Follow safety procedures as required and be a positive Team Member that has the drive and initiative to help the business grow.

Qualifications

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Operates the CNC milling machine, lathe, drill-press, sander, buffer, bench grinder and various hand tools. 
  • Reads blueprints, sketches, and follows verbal instructions.  Assists in ordering, receiving and storing material and supplies.
  • Repairs and modifies equipment, with instructions from supervisor.  Keeps workplace clean and organized.
  • Documentation: Completion of work orders; identify time and material spent on project.  Performs occasional tasks outside of job description in support of the Ace Team's mission.
  • Sweep floors, clean equipment and machines, take out shop garbage and recycling on a regular schedule.

Required Qualifications:

  • High School diploma or GED.
  • Work experience with shop math proficiency and strong mechanical aptitude is appreciated; basic math skills required (classes can be recommended as needed).
  • Position requires a valid Illinois driver's license or Illinois Class D license.  Class D - Any motor vehicle with a GVWR of 16,000 pounds or less. Does not include A. B, C, L or M vehicles.
  • Must be able to lift and carry tools and material weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Noise and vibration from operation equipment is consistent, though ear plugs are provided.
Additional Information

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Self-starter with good customer service skills and a pleasant demeanor, with the ability to maintain a good working relationship with staff.
  • Ability to maintain a high level of attention to accuracy and details with the ability to use discretion and good judgment.
  • Safely operate various types of machinery used in the trade.
  • Learn to read blueprints, sketches, and closely follow verbal instructions.
  • Operate various types of machinery used in the trade such as milling machine, lathe, drill press, sander, buffer, bench grinder and various hand tools.
  • A candidate needs to possess openness to learning new skills and collaborating with other team members to create solutions.

Salary Range:

The hiring range for this position is $10 - $12 per hour depending on experience, with a clear career path to Certified Machinist.

Benefits:

  • Future Retirement Savings Plan (401K) 2019
  • 5 Vacation days after one year
  • 5 Paid Holidays
  • Life & Disability Insurance available at low cost
  • Apprentice & Training Programs available through local community college

www.AceMachineToolInc.com/Careers for direct contact or call 815-762-0043, thank you!