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Drilling Rigs Jobs in Elko, NV (NOW HIRING)

Driftwood Diamond Drilling

Be Seen First

Experienced Diamond Core Driller

Elko, NV · On-site

$40 - $44/hr

  • Dental

  • Vision

In this role, you will operate wireline diamond drilling rigs and heavy support equipment to retrieve high-quality rock core samples in hard rock formations. Key Responsibilities: * Safely operate ...

Driftwood Diamond Drilling

Be Seen First

Experienced Diamond Core Driller

Elko, NV · On-site

$40 - $44/hr

  • Dental

  • Vision

In this role, you will operate wireline diamond drilling rigs and heavy support equipment to retrieve high-quality rock core samples in hard rock formations. Key Responsibilities: * Safely operate ...

Earth Drilling

Driller

Elko, NV · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

Earth Drilling / Harris Exploration is currently hiring experienced Drillers to join our growing ... Operate and oversee Sonic, RC, and/or Core drill rigs * Lead and work alongside drill crews safely ...

Earth Drilling

Driller

Elko, NV · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

Earth Drilling / Harris Exploration is currently hiring experienced Drillers to join our growing ... Operate and oversee Sonic, RC, and/or Core drill rigs * Lead and work alongside drill crews safely ...

Earth Drilling

Driller

Elko, NV · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

Earth Drilling / Harris Exploration is currently hiring experienced Drillers to join our growing ... Operate and oversee Sonic, RC, and/or Core drill rigs * Lead and work alongside drill crews safely ...

Earth Drilling

Driller

Elko, NV · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

Earth Drilling / Harris Exploration is currently hiring experienced Drillers to join our growing ... Operate and oversee Sonic, RC, and/or Core drill rigs * Lead and work alongside drill crews safely ...

Earth Drilling

Driller

Elko, NV · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

Earth Drilling / Harris Exploration is currently hiring experienced Drillers to join our growing ... Operate and oversee Sonic, RC, and/or Core drill rigs * Lead and work alongside drill crews safely ...

Earth Drilling

Driller

Elko, NV · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

Earth Drilling / Harris Exploration is currently hiring experienced Drillers to join our growing ... Operate and oversee Sonic, RC, and/or Core drill rigs * Lead and work alongside drill crews safely ...

Earth Drilling

Driller

Elko, NV · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

Earth Drilling / Harris Exploration is currently hiring experienced Drillers to join our growing ... Operate and oversee Sonic, RC, and/or Core drill rigs * Lead and work alongside drill crews safely ...

Earth Drilling

Driller

Elko, NV · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

Earth Drilling / Harris Exploration is currently hiring experienced Drillers to join our growing ... Operate and oversee Sonic, RC, and/or Core drill rigs * Lead and work alongside drill crews safely ...

Earth Drilling

Driller

Elko, NV · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

Earth Drilling / Harris Exploration is currently hiring experienced Drillers to join our growing ... Operate and oversee Sonic, RC, and/or Core drill rigs * Lead and work alongside drill crews safely ...

Earth Drilling

Driller

Elko, NV · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

Earth Drilling / Harris Exploration is currently hiring experienced Drillers to join our growing ... Operate and oversee Sonic, RC, and/or Core drill rigs * Lead and work alongside drill crews safely ...

Earth Drilling

Driller

Elko, NV · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

Earth Drilling / Harris Exploration is currently hiring experienced Drillers to join our growing ... Operate and oversee Sonic, RC, and/or Core drill rigs * Lead and work alongside drill crews safely ...

Earth Drilling

Driller

Elko, NV · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

Earth Drilling / Harris Exploration is currently hiring experienced Drillers to join our growing ... Operate and oversee Sonic, RC, and/or Core drill rigs * Lead and work alongside drill crews safely ...

Earth Drilling

Driller

Elko, NV · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

Earth Drilling / Harris Exploration is currently hiring experienced Drillers to join our growing ... Operate and oversee Sonic, RC, and/or Core drill rigs * Lead and work alongside drill crews safely ...

Earth Drilling

Driller

Elko, NV · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

Earth Drilling / Harris Exploration is currently hiring experienced Drillers to join our growing ... Operate and oversee Sonic, RC, and/or Core drill rigs * Lead and work alongside drill crews safely ...

Earth Drilling

Driller

Elko, NV · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

Earth Drilling / Harris Exploration is currently hiring experienced Drillers to join our growing ... Operate and oversee Sonic, RC, and/or Core drill rigs * Lead and work alongside drill crews safely ...

Earth Drilling

Driller

Elko, NV · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

Earth Drilling / Harris Exploration is currently hiring experienced Drillers to join our growing ... Operate and oversee Sonic, RC, and/or Core drill rigs * Lead and work alongside drill crews safely ...

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All JobsDrilling Rigs JobsDrilling Rigs Jobs in Elko, NV

Drilling Rigs information

See Elko, NV salary details

$19

$40

$67

How much do drilling rigs jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling rigs in Elko, NV is $40.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.17 and $43.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Drilling Rig Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, a high school diploma or equivalent, and on-the-job training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with drilling machinery, safety protocols, and industry-standard tools like top drives and blowout preventers is crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication set top operators apart. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining safety, efficiency, and productivity in demanding drilling environments.

What is a drilling rig?

Drilling rigs are complex machines used to create holes in the earth's subsurface, primarily for extracting oil, natural gas, or water. They come in various sizes and types, from small portable rigs for shallow wells to massive offshore platforms. Drilling rigs can be land-based or installed on offshore platforms and include equipment for rotating the drill bit, circulating drilling fluid, and handling drill pipe. Their primary function is to reach underground reservoirs safely and efficiently. Drilling rigs are essential for the energy industry and play a critical role in global resource extraction.

What is the difference between Drilling Rigs vs Drilling Operators?

AspectDrilling RigsDrilling Operators
CredentialsTechnical certifications, safety trainingOn-the-job training, certifications often required
Work EnvironmentOn-site at drilling locations, often remoteOn-site at drilling sites, operating equipment
Industry UsageEquipment used in oil, gas, mineral explorationOperate drilling equipment and monitor operations
Job RoleDesign, maintain, and operate drilling rigsControl and monitor drilling operations

Drilling Rigs are the large machinery used to drill wells, while Drilling Operators are the personnel who operate and monitor these rigs during drilling operations. Both roles are essential in the drilling industry, with Rigs being the equipment and Operators being the skilled workers managing the drilling process.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working on drilling rigs, and how can they prepare to handle them?

Professionals working on drilling rigs often encounter challenges such as harsh weather conditions, long shifts, and the need for strict adherence to safety protocols. The work environment is fast-paced and physically demanding, requiring strong teamwork and communication skills. To prepare, candidates should focus on building physical endurance, staying current with safety certifications, and developing problem-solving abilities to respond quickly to unexpected situations. Familiarity with advanced drilling technology and a proactive attitude toward safety can set applicants apart in this field.
What are popular job titles related to Drilling Rigs jobs in Elko, NV? For Drilling Rigs jobs in Elko, NV, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drilling Rigs jobs in Elko, NV look for? The top searched job categories for Drilling Rigs jobs in Elko, NV are:
Drilling Rigs jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drilling Rigs job openings in Elko, NV as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,213 per year, or $40 per hour.

Experienced Diamond Core Driller

Driftwood Diamond Drilling

Elko, NV • On-site

$40 - $44/hr

Full-time

Dental, Vision

Posted 7 days ago

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Job description

Job Title: Experienced Diamond Core Driller 

Pay: $40.00 – $44.00 per hour

Position Highlights:

  • Competitive Wage: $40.00 – $44.00/hr (commensurate with core drilling experience)
  • Travel & Housing Support: Fully reimbursed travel expenses + daily per diem
  • High Earning Potential: 12-hour shifts on a 28–30 day hitch with consistent daily overtime
  • Schedule: 28–30 days on / 7 days off rotation
  • Location: Active mineral exploration project site in Winnemucca, Nevada

Job Summary: We are seeking an Experienced Diamond Core Driller to lead drilling operations for a mineral exploration project in Winnemucca, Nevada. In this role, you will operate wireline diamond drilling rigs and heavy support equipment to retrieve high-quality rock core samples in hard rock formations.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Safely operate diamond core rigs and associated machinery (excavators, support equipment) to achieve core recovery depth targets.
  • Set up, tear down, and move drill sites in full compliance with MSHA and OSHA safety standards.
  • Conduct daily preventative maintenance and inspections on rigs, hydraulic systems, and mud/fluid pumps.
  • Maintain clear, accurate shift logs, core recovery records, and equipment tracking documentation.
  • Mentor and direct drill helpers/slakers on rig safety, site setup, and wireline tooling assembly.

Qualifications & Requirements:

  • Experience: Proven experience operating diamond core rigs in surface mineral exploration.
  • Certifications: Active MSHA Part 48 certification preferred (or ability to recertify).
  • Mechanical Skills: Strong mechanical aptitude with hydraulic rigs, core barrels, and heavy machinery.
  • Physical Capability: Ability to work 12-hour shifts in varied outdoor weather conditions.
  • Rotation: Willingness to work a 28–30 day on / 7 day off hitch.

Benefits & Perks:

  • Travel reimbursement to and from project site
  • Daily per diem allowance
  • Substantial overtime earning potential on 12-hour shifts
  • Well-maintained rigs and safety-first work environment