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Entry Level Drill Rig Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Driller

Raleigh, NC ยท 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 ...

Driller

Raleigh, NC

$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 ...

For Boom Crane CDL Driver positions - a Certified Drill Rig Operator-NCCCO Boom Certification preferred - maintain active accredited certification for equipment type (e.g. NCCCO, NCCER, CIC ...

Entry Level Drill Rig Operator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$12

$27

$50

How much do entry level drill rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level drill rig operator in Raleigh, NC is $27.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.34 and $30.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Drill Rig Operator, and why are they important?

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 are Entry Level Drill Rig Operators?

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 popular job titles related to Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Entry Level Drill Rig Operator jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Entry Level Drill Rig Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Drill Rig Operator job openings in Raleigh, NC as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,300 per year, or $27.1 per hour.
Driller

Driller

ECS Ltd

Raleigh, NC โ€ข On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Responsibilities
  • Performing standard penetrometer testing operations including performing borings and geoprobes
  • Operating Geoprobe unit for the collection of soil and Cone Penetrometer (CPT) data
  • Locating borings in the field
  • Record all required drilling data
  • Report all project specific issues directly to the project manager and/or your supervisor
  • Perform drill rig and support truck maintenance- Reporting all repair and maintenance issues to the Drilling Supervisor
  • Troubleshoot mechanical problems including those of an electrical or hydraulic nature
  • Follow all company safety procedures and guidelines for maintaining a safe work environment for all crew personnel
  • Safely and accurately load drill rig and support vehicle each day with supplies needed
  • Plan daily schedule to meet productivity goals set by Drilling Supervisor and/or Office Manager
  • Promptly and accurately complete time sheets and field paperwork
  • Care for and clean assigned company vehicles and drilling equipment and any other assigned equipment
  • Maintain professional behavior and quality standards
  • Train and mentor Drilling Helper
  • Willingness to work out of town and non-standard work schedules when required

Qualifications
  • High School diploma or GED
  • 2 - 4 years of related experience
  • Class A CDL driver's license preferred

About Us
ECS Group of Companies (ECS) was founded in 1988 with the goal to raise the standards of professional engineering consulting. Today, we are a leader in geotechnical, construction materials, environmental and facilities consulting services. We are employee-owned with more than 3,000 employees in 100+ offices and testing facilities coast to coast. ECS is currently ranked #60 in Engineering News-Record's Top 500 Design Firms (April 2026), #148 in Engineering News-Record's Top 200 Environmental Firms (October 2025) and #50 in Zweig Group's Hot Firm List (May 2025). For additional information about ECS, visit: www.ecslimited.com.
ECS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To learn more, click here.