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Exploration Core Drilling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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... drilling operations for an exploration project near Stanley, Idaho. You will operate specialized core rigs and heavy equipment to extract rock samples in high-altitude, hard-rock environments. Key ...

Be Seen First

... drilling operations for an exploration project near Stanley, Idaho. You will operate specialized core rigs and heavy equipment to extract rock samples in high-altitude, hard-rock environments. Key ...

Be Seen First

... drilling operations for an exploration project near Stanley, Idaho. You will operate specialized core rigs and heavy equipment to extract rock samples in high-altitude, hard-rock environments. Key ...

Be Seen First

... drilling operations for an exploration project near Stanley, Idaho. You will operate specialized core rigs and heavy equipment to extract rock samples in high-altitude, hard-rock environments. Key ...

Be Seen First

... drilling operations for a mineral exploration project in Winnemucca, Nevada. In this role, you will ... Safely operate diamond core rigs and associated machinery (excavators, support equipment) to ...

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 ...

Be Seen First

... drilling operations for a mineral exploration project in Winnemucca, Nevada. In this role, you will ... Safely operate diamond core rigs and associated machinery (excavators, support equipment) to ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Driller

Elko, NV

$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 ...

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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Exploration Core Drilling information

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$14

$27

$43

How much do exploration core drilling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 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 is an exploration core drilling job?

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 key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exploration core driller?

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 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 is the difference between Exploration Core Drilling vs Geotechnical Drilling?

AspectExploration Core DrillingGeotechnical Drilling
PurposeTo collect rock and mineral samples for mineral exploration and resource assessmentTo analyze soil and rock properties for construction, foundation, or environmental studies
Work EnvironmentMining sites, exploration fields, remote locationsConstruction sites, urban areas, environmental testing locations
CredentialsSimilar certifications, including safety training and technical skillsSimilar 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.

How to become an Exploration Core Drilling?

To become an Exploration Core Drilling professional, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training or apprenticeship in core drilling techniques. Relevant skills include knowledge of drilling equipment, safety procedures, and environmental awareness; certifications such as OSHA safety training are often required. Gaining experience through entry-level positions or technical programs can help develop the necessary expertise for this role.
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:

Infographic showing various Exploration Core Drilling job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,259 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Driller (mineral exploration / diamond core drilling) - Idaho

GateSource HR

Boise, ID • On-site

$22 - $29.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Diamond (Core) Driller

Headquartered in West Palm Beach, Florida, GateSource HR is an international recruitment and human resources consulting firm with a global footprint. We work with businesses and institutions of all sizes, from start-ups to large organizations, and assist in converting international HR challenges into growth opportunities. Our recruitment and staffing specialists partner with clients and candidates to fill roles in Agriculture, Banking, Construction, Engineering, Finance, Energy, Mining across the Americas.

We are seeking an experienced Diamond (Core) Driller to join our operations team in Idaho and support high-quality mineral exploration projects. The Driller will operate and maintain diamond core rigs to collect accurate geological samples, delivering client-driven outcomes in gold, copper, and silver exploration projects. Key Responsibilities: Primary Duties (≈85% of time): Operate and maintain diamond (core) drilling rigs for mineral exploration. Perform daily drilling operations, including hole advancement, core recovery, and orientation. Interpret and execute operational plans provided by geologists and site engineers. Ensure safety, productivity, and environmental best practices on-site. Identify anomalies, equipment issues, or drilling challenges and report promptly. Supportive Tasks (≈15% of time): Conduct safety rounds and equipment inspections (5%). Perform preventive maintenance: greasing, fluid changes, minor repairs (5%). Prepare core boxes, logging systems, and maintain accurate sample records (5%). Communicate with crew regarding hole depth, core quality, and equipment status (5%). Requirements Drilling certification or equivalent trade qualification. Minimum 5 years' experience in diamond/core drilling for mineral exploration. Knowledge of mineral exploration practices (gold, silver, copper). Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills. Ability to work in remote locations and variable weather conditions. Safety-conscious with experience following MSHA and environmental regulations. Preferred: Experience with wireline-assisted core drilling and HQ/NQ-sized core. Ability to supervise or mentor assistant drillers. Knowledge of Idaho geology Benefits Competitive hourly rate to be agreed and attractive benefits package.