... exploration ... Experience with RC and Core drilling is necessary as a significant part of this role is supporting ...
Quick apply
... exploration ... Experience with RC and Core drilling is necessary as a significant part of this role is supporting ...
... exploration ... Experience with RC and Core drilling is necessary as a significant part of this role is supporting ...
... exploration ... Experience with RC and Core drilling is necessary as a significant part of this role is supporting ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
$21.50 - $29.25/hr
You will perform core drilling services for a seasonal mineral exploration project. This is a temporary position with an anticipated duration of approximately 5 to 8 months. How will you do it?
$21.50 - $29.25/hr
You will perform core drilling services for a seasonal mineral exploration project. This is a temporary position with an anticipated duration of approximately 5 to 8 months. How will you do it?
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 26, 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:
Full-time
Posted 29 days ago
Job description
Description:
Hycroft Mining Holding Corporation is a US-based gold and silver mining company, developing its wholly owned Hycroft asset, located an hour southwest of Winnemucca, Nevada.
Job Description
The role of Drill Services Superintendent is to liaison with drilling contractors and other contract teams supporting exploration. Experience with RC and Core drilling is necessary as a significant part of this role is supporting onsite drilling contractors to be successful as well as reviewing daily drill logs to verify costs are being allocated correctly. This position will work closely with site operations, safety, and environmental groups. The Drill Services Superintendent will report to the Exploration Manager.
Responsibilities
- Oversee drilling on property, tracking drill performance to include costs, mud usage, and recovery in Krux or equivalent software
- Responsible for tracking usage of and maintaining adequate supply of drilling consumables
- Work with contractors to build and maintain an effective safety culture, ensure Hycroft standards and policies are followed
- Supervise and aid in the construction of drill pads/roads and associated reclamation as needed
- Provide updates on drilling performance and costs on weekly basis and accruals monthly
- Compliance with all company policies and procedures including, but not limited to safety, environmental, confidentiality and code of conduct.
- Exercise discretion and judgment in job performance of team
- Works without risk or harm, sets example for others
- Develop other department personnel to perform required duties
- Perform other related functions as assigned
Qualifications
· 10+ years of drilling experience
· Possesses good communication and interpersonal skills
· Must have an excellent understanding of Core and RC drilling techniques, drilling experience in both fields preferred
· Experience in contract management
· Working knowledge and skill with P.C. utilizing word processing, spreadsheet, database, and presentation software
· Strong verbal, written, and analytical skills along with the ability to interact effectively with all levels of employees and management
· Ability to work independently and as a member of the exploration team
· Experienced equipment operation (forklift, backhoe, loader, dozer) preferred
· Must have proven organizational/supervisory skills
· High School Diploma or equivalent required
Safety, Environmental, Compliance
· Adheres to all safety and environmental disciplines.
· Have a strong commitment to safe working practices.
· Is alert and observes, corrects, and reports unsafe conditions.
· Follows operating procedures and complies with all regulatory requirements.