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Exploration Core Drilling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Earth Drilling

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 ...

Calista Brice Holding Company

$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?

Mariana Minerals

Diamond/Core Driller

Moab, UT · On-site

$23.25 - $31.50/hr

... diamond drilling equipment to recover high-quality core samples for mineral exploration and geological evaluation. This role requires precision drilling, strong mechanical skills, and strict ...

P&C Recruiting and HR

Exploration Geologist

UT · Remote

$85K - $115K/yr

Design and plan RC and/or core drill programs to test exploration targets. * Prepare drill plans including collar locations, azimuth, dip, and depth specifications. * Supervise drilling activities ...

SSR Mining, Inc.

Drill Services Supervisor

Valmy, NV · On-site

Experience with exploration drilling, specific technical knowledge of air rotary and core drilling SSR Mining Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to ...

New

Blue Moon Metals

Drill Coordinator

Imlay, NV · On-site

Experience coordinating diamond core drilling programs preferred. * Experience working with exploration drilling contractors and remote field operations preferred. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

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Exploration Core Drilling information

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How much do exploration core drilling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 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 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?

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?

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.

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:

Exploration Core Drilling jobs near you
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

Earth Drilling

Elko, NV • On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Job description:

Earth Drilling / Harris Exploration is currently hiring experienced Drillers to join our growing team working across the United States. We are looking for motivated, safety-focused candidates with experience operating Sonic, RC, and/or Core drilling equipment.

This is a great opportunity for drillers looking for:

  • New competitive pay rate program
  • Above-industry LOA
  • Consistent overtime hours
  • Long-term opportunities
  • Strong team environment
  • Immediate start available

Responsibilities

  • Operate and oversee Sonic, RC, and/or Core drill rigs
  • Lead and work alongside drill crews safely and efficiently
  • Complete drilling logs and daily field reporting
  • Perform basic equipment inspections and troubleshooting
  • Follow all safety policies and procedures
  • Travel and work across multiple U.S. states

Requirements

  • Minimum 5+ years drilling experience
  • Experience with Sonic, RC, and/or Core drilling equipment
  • Valid driver’s license
  • Ability to travel throughout the U.S.
  • Ability to work rotational shifts, days/nights, and overtime
  • Strong work ethic and safety mindset

What We Offer

  • Competitive wages
  • Above-industry LOA
  • Overtime opportunities
  • Travel opportunities across the U.S.
  • Supportive team environment
  • Advancement opportunities

Apply today to join a growing drilling team with strong earning potential and consistent work opportunities.

Job Type: Full-time

Work Location: In person