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Entry Level Drill Rig Operator Jobs in North Carolina

Appalachian Drilling Company LLC

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Vertical Drill Rig Operator

China Grove, NC · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Appalachian Drilling Company is seeking a highly skilled and safety-focused Drill Rig Operator to join our deep foundations team. In this role, you will be responsible for operating heavy rotary ...

ECS Ltd

Driller

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/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 Southeast, LLP

Driller

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/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

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/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 ...

EC Source

UGE Dirnal Drill Opr/Loc

Cary, NC · On-site

Job Summary The Directional Drill Operator/Locator is responsible for safely operating the ... Operate the drill rig efficiently. * Prepare job and drill so that the shot can be performed safely.

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Entry Level Drill Rig Operator information

How to become an entry level drill rig operator with no experience?

To become an entry-level drill rig operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should complete on-the-job training provided by employers. Some positions may require a valid driver's license and physical ability to handle the equipment, while obtaining certifications such as OSHA safety training can improve job prospects.

How do I become an entry level drill rig operator?

To become an entry-level drill rig operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should complete on-the-job training or an apprenticeship to learn equipment operation and safety procedures. Some employers may require certification in crane or heavy equipment operation, and physical fitness is important due to the demanding nature of the work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level drill rig operator?

To thrive as an Entry Level Drill Rig Operator, you need a basic understanding of mechanical systems, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with drilling equipment, safety protocols, and certifications such as OSHA or HAZWOPER are typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for maintaining safety, operational efficiency, and successful project outcomes in demanding work environments.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level drill rig operators, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level drill rig operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to physically demanding work, understanding safety protocols, and learning to operate complex machinery. New operators can overcome these challenges by actively participating in safety trainings, asking experienced team members for guidance, and consistently following standard operating procedures. Building strong communication skills and maintaining a willingness to learn are also important for success and advancement in this role.

What is an entry level drill rig operator?

Entry Level Drill Rig Operators are workers who assist with operating and maintaining drilling rigs, typically under the supervision of more experienced operators. Their main responsibilities include setting up equipment, monitoring drilling operations, ensuring safety protocols, and performing basic maintenance tasks. This role is often considered a starting position in the drilling industry, providing hands-on training and experience for those interested in pursuing a career in drilling operations. No advanced experience is usually required, but a willingness to work in physically demanding environments is important.

What is the difference between Entry Level Drill Rig Operator vs Drilling Technician?

AspectEntry Level Drill Rig OperatorDrilling Technician
Required CertificationsOSHA safety training, basic rig operation certificationsOSHA safety training, basic certifications, sometimes specialized in equipment
Work EnvironmentOn-site at drilling locations, outdoors, physically demandingOn-site at drilling sites, may involve maintenance and troubleshooting
Employer & Industry UsageOil & gas, mining, construction industriesOil & gas, mining, construction industries

Both roles involve working on drilling sites with similar safety and operational certifications. The main difference is that Entry Level Drill Rig Operators focus primarily on operating drilling equipment, while Drilling Technicians often handle maintenance, troubleshooting, and technical support. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify the right role based on their skills and career goals.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drill Rig Operator jobs in North Carolina?

The most popular types of Drill Rig Operator jobs in North Carolina are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs in North Carolina?

For Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs in North Carolina, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs in North Carolina look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs in North Carolina are:

What cities in North Carolina are hiring for Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs?

Cities in North Carolina with the most Entry Level Drill Rig Operator job openings:

Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Drill Rig Operator job openings in North Carolina as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Vertical Drill Rig Operator

Appalachian Drilling Company LLC

China Grove, NC • On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

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Job description

Appalachian Drilling Company is seeking a highly skilled and safety-focused Drill Rig Operator to join our deep foundations team. In this role, you will be responsible for operating heavy rotary drilling rigs to excavate large diameter drilled shafts (caissons) for commercial, industrial, and infrastructure projects.


Key Responsibilities

  • Rig Operation: Safely and efficiently operate large rotary drilling rigs to excavate large-diameter drilled shafts according to engineering blueprints and project specifications. From 2' to 10' diameters
  • Casing & Slurry: Manage the installation and extraction of temporary or permanent steel casings. Work effectively with wet-hole construction methods, including polymer slurry systems, when required.
  • Equipment Maintenance: Perform daily pre-shift and post-shift equipment inspections. Conduct routine preventative maintenance, grease moving parts, and promptly report any mechanical issues to the maintenance team.
  • Concrete Placement: Coordinate and assist with concrete pouring operations, including the setup of tremie pipes & pump lines.
  • Rebar & Anchor Bolt Setting: Assist in rigging and lowering heavy rebar cages. Accurately set, align, and secure anchor bolts and anchor templates to exact engineering tolerances prior to and during the concrete pour.

Qualifications & Skills

  • Experience: Minimum of [3–5] years of proven experience operating large foundation drilling rigs specifically for drilled shafts/caissons.
  • Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of drilling techniques through various subsurface conditions (soil, cobble, hard rock, ground water).
  • Certifications: Current OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification preferred. NCCCO Drill Rig Operator certification is a major plus.
  • Driver’s License: Valid driver’s license required. A Class A CDL is highly preferred for moving equipment and materials.
  • Problem-Solving: Ability to read project plans, adapt to changing soil conditions, and troubleshoot minor equipment issues on the fly.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

  • Ability to work safely outdoors in all weather conditions (extreme heat, cold, rain, etc.).
  • Physical stamina to climb on and off heavy machinery, lift up to [50 lbs], and stand or sit for extended periods.
  • Willingness to work long hours, overtime, and occasional weekends as project schedules demand.
  • Willingness to travel to various job sites within the Southeastern US

What We Offer

  • Competitive hourly wage
  • Daily Per Diem
  • Comprehensive benefits package (Health, Dental, Vision).
  • Paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays.
  • Opportunities for ongoing training and career advancement.