Core Driller
$20.50 - $27.75/hr
... Exploration Drilling team in Garner, North Carolina. The core driller is responsible for the safe and efficient transportation and operation of the company's diamond core drilling equipment and ...
Core Driller
$20.50 - $27.75/hr
... Exploration Drilling team in Garner, North Carolina. The core driller is responsible for the safe and efficient transportation and operation of the company's diamond core drilling equipment and ...
Core Driller
Garner, NC · On-site
$20.50 - $27.75/hr
... Exploration Drilling team in Garner, North Carolina. The core driller is responsible for the safe and efficient transportation and operation of the company's diamond core drilling equipment and ...
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Apply Early
Core Driller
Garner, NC · On-site
$20.50 - $27.75/hr
... Exploration Drilling team in Garner, North Carolina. The core driller is responsible for the safe and efficient transportation and operation of the company's diamond core drilling equipment and ...
Apply Early
Core Driller
$20.50 - $27.75/hr
... Exploration Drilling team in Garner, North Carolina. The core driller is responsible for the safe and efficient transportation and operation of the company's diamond core drilling equipment and ...
Core Driller
$20.50 - $27.75/hr
... Exploration Drilling team in Garner, North Carolina. The core driller is responsible for the safe and efficient transportation and operation of the company's diamond core drilling equipment and ...
Surface Core Driller
Kellogg, ID · On-site
$21 - $28.50/hr
Toolpusher / Site Supervisor About NISS At NISS, we specialize in high-quality surface and helicopter supported core drilling for the mining, exploration, and geotechnical sectors. Safety ...
Surface Core Driller
Kellogg, ID · On-site
$21 - $28.50/hr
Toolpusher / Site Supervisor About NISS At NISS, we specialize in high-quality surface and helicopter supported core drilling for the mining, exploration, and geotechnical sectors. Safety ...
Surface Core Driller
Kellogg, ID · On-site
$21 - $28.50/hr
Toolpusher / Site Supervisor About NISS At NISS, we specialize in high-quality surface and helicopter supported core drilling for the mining, exploration, and geotechnical sectors. Safety ...
Surface Core Driller
Kellogg, ID · On-site
$21 - $28.50/hr
Toolpusher / Site Supervisor About NISS At NISS, we specialize in high-quality surface and helicopter supported core drilling for the mining, exploration, and geotechnical sectors. Safety ...
Surface Core Driller
California City, CA · On-site
$32 - $35/hr
Toolpusher / Site Supervisor About NISS At NISS, we specialize in high-quality surface and helicopter supported core drilling for the mining, exploration, and geotechnical sectors. Safety ...
Surface Core Driller
California City, CA · On-site
$32 - $35/hr
Toolpusher / Site Supervisor About NISS At NISS, we specialize in high-quality surface and helicopter supported core drilling for the mining, exploration, and geotechnical sectors. Safety ...
Experienced Diamond Core Driller -Remote Alaska
Wasilla, AK · Remote
$23.50 - $32/hr
Core Drillers are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of diamond drilling equipment ... exploration drilling in Alaska, we'd like to hear from you. Qualifications * 18+ months of ...
Experienced Diamond Core Driller -Remote Alaska
Wasilla, AK · Remote
$23.50 - $32/hr
Core Drillers are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of diamond drilling equipment ... exploration drilling in Alaska, we'd like to hear from you. Qualifications * 18+ months of ...
Experienced Diamond Core Driller -Remote Alaska
Wasilla, AK · On-site +1
$23.50 - $32/hr
Core Drillers are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of diamond drilling equipment ... exploration drilling in Alaska, we'd like to hear from you. Qualifications * 18+ months of ...
Experienced Diamond Core Driller -Remote Alaska
Wasilla, AK · On-site +1
$23.50 - $32/hr
Core Drillers are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of diamond drilling equipment ... exploration drilling in Alaska, we'd like to hear from you. Qualifications * 18+ months of ...
Exploration Core Drilling information
See salary details
$14.66 - $17.26
3% of jobs
$17.26 - $19.86
10% of jobs
$22.36 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$19.86 - $22.47
13% of jobs
$22.47 - $25.07
17% of jobs
The median wage is $25.82 / hr.
$25.07 - $27.67
26% of jobs
$29.07 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$27.67 - $30.27
13% of jobs
$30.27 - $32.87
6% of jobs
$32.87 - $35.47
3% of jobs
$35.47 - $38.07
4% of jobs
$38.07 - $40.67
2% of jobs
$40.67 - $43.27
3% of jobs
$14
$27
$43
How much do exploration core drilling jobs pay per hour?
As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for exploration core drilling in the United States is $27.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are exploration core drilling jobs?
Exploration core drilling jobs involve operating specialized drilling equipment to extract cylindrical samples, known as 'cores,' from beneath the earth’s surface. These cores provide valuable geological information about mineral, oil, gas, or groundwater deposits. Workers in this field are responsible for setting up drilling rigs, monitoring drilling operations, and ensuring that samples are collected safely and accurately. Core drilling is critical in the early stages of mining and resource exploration, helping companies determine the location, quality, and extent of underground resources.
What are the most common challenges faced by exploration core drillers in the field?
Exploration core drillers often encounter challenges such as unpredictable geological formations, harsh weather conditions, and remote or rugged locations. These factors can affect equipment performance and require quick problem-solving to keep drilling operations on schedule. Safety is a top priority, as working with heavy machinery and in isolated areas demands strict adherence to protocols. Teamwork and clear communication are essential, since drillers frequently collaborate with geologists, engineers, and support staff to collect accurate core samples and ensure project success.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Exploration Core Driller, and why are they important?
To excel as an Exploration Core Driller, you need a solid understanding of drilling techniques, geology basics, and mechanical aptitude, often supported by relevant certifications or vocational training. Familiarity with drilling rigs, core sampling equipment, and safety management systems is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and accurate extraction of core samples in often challenging and remote environments.
What is the difference between Exploration Core Drilling vs Geotechnical Drilling?
| Aspect | Exploration Core Drilling | Geotechnical Drilling |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | To collect rock and mineral samples for mineral exploration and resource assessment | To analyze soil and rock properties for construction, foundation, or environmental studies |
| Work Environment | Mining sites, exploration fields, remote locations | Construction sites, urban areas, environmental testing locations |
| Credentials | Similar certifications, including safety training and technical skills | Similar certifications, often with additional geotechnical-specific training |
Exploration Core Drilling focuses on extracting rock samples for mineral exploration, often in remote locations, while Geotechnical Drilling is used to assess soil and rock properties for construction and engineering projects. Both roles require technical skills and safety certifications, but their applications and environments differ.
More about Exploration Core Drilling jobs
What states have the most Exploration Core Drilling jobs? States with the most job openings for Exploration Core Drilling jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Exploration Core Drilling jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Exploration Core Drilling jobs are:
Martin Marietta Materials rating
7.2
Based on 131 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
337th of 527 rated manufacturers
Job description
Martin Marietta is seeking a Core Driller to join our Exploration Drilling team in Garner, North Carolina. The core driller is responsible for the safe and efficient transportation and operation of the company’s diamond core drilling equipment and support vehicles during all phases of auger and core sampling activities at both surface and underground mine sites. The driller will operate under the direction of the lead driller department manager. Regular overnight travel for extended shifts up to fourteen consecutive days before returning home is required. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age.
Responsibilities:
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Champion the Martin Marietta safety culture.
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Safely transport and operate core drilling equipment and support vehicles.
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Perform maintenance and repair of equipment required.
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Document daily tasks including maintenance, operation, and drill logs.
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Load and unload equipment from support vehicles.
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Clean maintenance of all shop areas, vehicles, and other work areas.
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Inventory of all parts, tools, and equipment.
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Effectively train, lead, and manage the assistant driller.
Qualifications and Skills:
· Five years of drilling experience operating wireline core drilling equipment (desired)
· Experience operating Boart Longyear LF90 drills a plus
· Current MSHA surface and underground training a plus
· Positive attitude strong communication skills
· Work effectively in individual and team settings
· Clean driving record with a valid unrestricted Class A CDL
· Pass pre-employment drug screen, background check, and DOT physical
· Work 10-12 hours daily shifts
· Willing to work outside in all weather conditions
· Carry 50-75 lbs. repeatedly without assistance
· Weekly travel
· Reliable with good attendance history
· Strong mechanical skills
· High school diploma, GED, or equivalent
· Must be at least 21 years of age
What Martin Marietta Materials employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About Martin Marietta
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Martin Marietta is an American-based company and a leading supplier of building materials - including aggregates, cement, ready mixed concrete and asphalt.
Industry
Coal, metals and minerals mining
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Raleigh, NC, US
Year founded
1994