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Drilling Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Field Geologist / Geotechnical Drilling Inspector Location: Based out of Columbus, Ohio Travel Required: Extensive (typically Monday-Friday) Employment Type: Full-Time Compensation: Competitive ...

Driller

Virginia, MN · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Thank you for your interest in working with Timberline Drilling! We are seeking dedicated ... Conduct and document regular drill inspections and safety meetings to comply with MSHA regulations ...

Driller

Kellogg, ID

$21 - $28.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Thank you for your interest in working with Timberline Drilling! We are seeking dedicated ... Conduct and document regular drill inspections and safety meetings to comply with MSHA regulations ...

Driller

Elko, NV

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Thank you for your interest in working with Timberline Drilling! We are seeking dedicated ... Conduct and document regular drill inspections and safety meetings to comply with MSHA regulations ...

$21.25 - $29/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Core Drilling Technician Thank you for your interest in working with Timberline Drilling! We are ... Conduct and document regular drill inspections and safety meetings to comply with MSHA regulations ...

Driller

Juneau, AK

$24.25 - $33/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Thank you for your interest in working with Timberline Drilling! We are seeking dedicated ... Conduct and document regular drill inspections and safety meetings to comply with MSHA regulations ...

$21.25 - $29/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Core Drilling Technician Thank you for your interest in working with Timberline Drilling! We are ... Conduct and document regular drill inspections and safety meetings to comply with MSHA regulations ...

Driller

Elko, NV · Remote

$23.50 - $32/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Thank you for your interest in working with Timberline Drilling! We are seeking dedicated ... Conduct and document regular drill inspections and safety meetings to comply with MSHA regulations ...

Driller

Kellogg, ID · Remote

$23.50 - $32/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Thank you for your interest in working with Timberline Drilling! We are seeking dedicated ... Conduct and document regular drill inspections and safety meetings to comply with MSHA regulations ...

Driller

Virginia, MN · Remote

$23.50 - $32/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Thank you for your interest in working with Timberline Drilling! We are seeking dedicated ... Conduct and document regular drill inspections and safety meetings to comply with MSHA regulations ...

Driller

Juneau, AK · Remote

$23.50 - $32/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Thank you for your interest in working with Timberline Drilling! We are seeking dedicated ... Conduct and document regular drill inspections and safety meetings to comply with MSHA regulations ...

Driller

Kellogg, ID · On-site

$21 - $28.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Thank you for your interest in working with Timberline Drilling! We are seeking dedicated ... Conduct and document regular drill inspections and safety meetings to comply with MSHA regulations ...

Driller

Juneau, AK · On-site

$24.25 - $33/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Thank you for your interest in working with Timberline Drilling! We are seeking dedicated ... Conduct and document regular drill inspections and safety meetings to comply with MSHA regulations ...

Driller

Elko, NV · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Thank you for your interest in working with Timberline Drilling! We are seeking dedicated ... Conduct and document regular drill inspections and safety meetings to comply with MSHA regulations ...

Field Geologist

Columbus, OH · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Field Geologist / Geotechnical Drilling Inspector Location: Based out of Columbus, Ohio Travel Required: Extensive (typically Monday-Friday) Employment Type: Full-Time Compensation: Competitive ...

Driller

Elko, NV · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

Complete drilling logs and daily field reporting * Perform basic equipment inspections and troubleshooting * Follow all safety policies and procedures * Travel and work across multiple U.S. states ...

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Showing results 1-20

Drilling Inspector information

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$10

$27

$68

How much do drilling inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling inspector in the United States is $27.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Drilling Inspector vs Well Site Supervisor?

AspectDrilling InspectorWell Site Supervisor
CertificationsAPI certifications, safety trainingAPI certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentOn-site at drilling locations, inspecting equipment and proceduresOverseeing daily operations at the well site, managing personnel
Employer & Industry UsageOil & gas drilling companies, contractorsOil & gas operators, drilling contractors
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding inspection roles in drillingManaging well site operations

The main difference is that a Drilling Inspector focuses on inspecting drilling equipment and procedures to ensure safety and compliance, while a Well Site Supervisor manages daily operations and personnel at the well site. Both roles require similar certifications and work in the same environment, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

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

To thrive as a Drilling Inspector, you need in-depth knowledge of drilling operations, safety standards, and industry regulations, typically supported by a degree or certification in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with drilling equipment, inspection tools, and reporting software such as WellView or OpenWells is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, compliant, and efficient drilling operations, minimizing risks and maintaining project integrity.

What is a drilling inspector?

Drilling Inspectors are professionals responsible for overseeing drilling operations, typically in the oil, gas, or geothermal industries. Their main duties include ensuring drilling activities comply with safety regulations, industry standards, and environmental guidelines. They inspect equipment, review procedures, monitor site conditions, and document any violations or issues. Drilling Inspectors play a crucial role in preventing accidents, minimizing environmental impact, and maintaining operational efficiency.

What are some common challenges faced by drilling inspectors during site inspections?

Drilling Inspectors often encounter challenges such as ensuring strict compliance with safety and environmental regulations, especially when conditions on-site are rapidly changing. They must meticulously document findings and communicate effectively with drilling crews, engineers, and regulatory bodies to address any non-compliance or hazards. Additionally, adapting to variable weather conditions and remote work locations can add complexity to inspections. Successful Drilling Inspectors are proactive problem-solvers who stay current with industry standards and maintain strong professional relationships across teams.
More about Drilling Inspector jobs

What states have the most Drilling Inspector jobs?

States with the most job openings for Drilling Inspector jobs include:

Infographic showing various Drilling Inspector job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 11% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,896 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Field Geologist / Geotechnical Drilling Inspector

Resource International

Hybrid

Full-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Field Geologist / Geotechnical Drilling Inspector

Location: Based out of Columbus, Ohio

Travel Required: Extensive (typically Monday–Friday)

Employment Type: Full-Time

Compensation: Competitive hourly pay with overtime after 40 hours/week

About Us

Resource International, Inc. (Rii) offers a broad range of services including planning, civil engineering design, program and construction management, technology services, and more. Established in 1941, Rii employs more than 200 engineers and professionals throughout the Midwest. Our corporate office is located in Columbus, Ohio with full-service branch offices in Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Indianapolis.

If you want to join a team of dedicated professionals who are among the best in their field, in a diverse work environment, then please explore Resource International’s career possibilities.

Position Summary

We are seeking a motivated and dependable Field Geologist / Geotechnical Drilling Inspector to support geotechnical exploration projects throughout the region. This position involves working alongside geotechnical drill crews, logging soil and rock samples, documenting subsurface conditions, and collecting field data used in engineering and construction projects. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals who enjoy working outdoors, traveling, and being directly involved in field investigations rather than spending their days in an office.

Responsibilities

  • Log and classify soil samples in accordance with industry standards.
  • Describe and document rock core samples and geologic conditions.
  • Maintain accurate field boring logs and project documentation.
  • Observe and document drilling operations and sampling procedures.
  • Coordinate with drill crews, project managers, and engineers.
  • Record groundwater observations and other subsurface conditions.
  • Transport field equipment and supplies to project sites.
  • Operate company pickup trucks and tow utility trailers as needed.
  • Follow all company and client safety requirements.

Work Environment

This is a physically demanding field position that requires:

  • Frequent travel, often spending up to five days per week away from home. Extended runs longer than five days on occasion.
  • Typical workdays of 10+ hours, with occasional longer shifts.
  • Working outdoors in all weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, rain, snow, and wind.
  • Walking on uneven terrain and active construction sites.
  • Working on and around heavy equipment, including geotechnical drill rigs.
  • Lifting, carrying, and moving field equipment and materials up to 50 lbs.
  • Standing, walking, climbing, bending, and kneeling for extended periods.

Qualifications

Preferred

  • Bachelor's degree in Geology, Engineering Geology, Environmental Science, or a related field.
  • Experience logging soil borings and rock core.
  • Experience working around geotechnical drill rigs.
  • Knowledge of soil and rock classification systems.

Required

  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
  • Ability to drive a pickup truck and tow a utility trailer.
  • Ability to travel extensively and work extended hours. (Staying out of town required)
  • Ability to pass pre-employment and client-required drug screening and background checks.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate field records.

Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive hourly pay based on experience.
  • Overtime paid for all hours worked above 40 per week.
  • Company-paid travel expenses and per diem (if applicable).
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Paid time off and holidays.
  • Opportunities for advancement and professional development.

Who Succeeds in This Role?

  • Prefers working outdoors over sitting behind a desk.
  • Enjoys travel and seeing new project locations.
  • Comfortable working long days when projects require it.
  • Takes pride in accurate field observations and documentation.
  • Works safely and effectively around heavy equipment.

If you're looking for a challenging, hands-on career in geology and geotechnical exploration, we'd like to hear from you.

Employment Type: Full Time
Salary: $23 - $30 Annual
Bonus/Commission: No