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Exploration Driller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Minerals Technologies

Exploration Driller

Belle Fourche, SD · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Exploration Driller Location: Belle Fourche, SD What We Offer: * Competitive pay, commensurate with experience * Health/Dental/Vision plans * 401k company match * Life Insurance * Short Term ...

Coeur Mining

Exploration Geologist

Lovelock, NV · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Log Reverse Circulation drill chips or Diamond Drill core and help maintain data in acQuire database. * Contribute to the planning of the exploration programs and target generation. * Perform ...

Quanta Services

Geotechnical Driller

Spokane Valley, WA

$45 - $60/hr

The IBEW Union Driller is responsible for geotechnical exploration using specialized equipment such as the Crux 2500-6000 series, DMW rigs, and HTD 10K. This role requires the willingness to become a ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member II

Boise, ID · On-site

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

Exploration Team Members (ETMs) will perform subsurface exploration duties using conventional drilling or in-situ testing techniques. Drill methods may include auger drilling, mud rotary drilling ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member III

Wilkes Barre, PA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Exploration Team Members (ETMs) will perform subsurface exploration duties using conventional drilling or in-situ testing techniques. Drill methods may include; auger drilling, mud rotary drilling ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member III

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Exploration Team Members (ETMs) will perform subsurface exploration duties using conventional drilling or in-situ testing techniques. Drill methods may include; auger drilling, mud rotary drilling ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member III

Wichita, KS · On-site

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

Exploration Team Members (ETMs) will perform subsurface exploration duties using conventional drilling or in-situ testing techniques. Drill methods may include auger drilling, mud rotary drilling ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member V

Lenexa, KS

$21.50 - $29.25/hr

Exploration Team Members (ETMs) will perform subsurface exploration duties using conventional drilling or in-situ testing techniques. Drill methods may include auger drilling, mud rotary drilling ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member III

Woodbridge, VA

$22.75 - $31/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Exploration Team Members (ETMs) will perform subsurface exploration duties using conventional drilling or in-situ testing techniques. Drill methods may include; auger drilling, mud rotary drilling ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member II

Boise, ID · On-site

$22 - $29.75/hr

Exploration Team Members (ETMs) will perform subsurface exploration duties using conventional drilling or in-situ testing techniques. Drill methods may include auger drilling, mud rotary drilling ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member III

Omaha, NE · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Exploration Team Members (ETMs) will perform subsurface exploration duties using conventional drilling or in-situ testing techniques. Drill methods may include; auger drilling, mud rotary drilling ...

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member IV

Omaha, NE · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Exploration Team Members (ETMs) will perform subsurface exploration duties using conventional drilling or in-situ testing techniques. Drill methods may include; auger drilling, mud rotary drilling ...

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Exploration Driller information

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$18

$84

$190

How much do exploration driller jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for exploration driller in the United States is $84.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.85 and $183.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an exploration driller do?

An Exploration Driller operates drilling equipment to extract soil, rock, and mineral samples from beneath the Earth's surface. They help identify potential resources like minerals, oil, or gas for mining and energy companies. The job involves setting up and maintaining drill rigs, interpreting geological data, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. It often requires working in remote locations under challenging conditions. Strong technical skills, physical stamina, and attention to detail are essential for success in this role.

What are some common challenges faced by exploration drillers on the job?

Exploration Drillers often work in remote locations and challenging weather conditions, which can require long shifts and a high level of adaptability. Equipment breakdowns, unexpected geological formations, and maintaining strict safety standards are frequent challenges that demand quick problem-solving and attention to detail. Collaboration with geologists and engineers is also essential to ensure accurate sample collection and to adjust drilling plans as needed. These aspects make the role both dynamic and rewarding for those who enjoy hands-on work and variety in their daily tasks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exploration driller?

To thrive as an Exploration Driller, you typically need hands-on mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and experience with drilling operations, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant vocational training. Familiarity with drilling rigs, core sampling equipment, and safety certifications such as H2S Alive or First Aid are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help a driller manage unforeseen challenges and coordinate with geologists and other crew members. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring safe, efficient, and accurate exploration activities in often remote or demanding environments.

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What states have the most Exploration Driller jobs?

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Exploration Driller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exploration Driller job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $176,348 per year, or $84.8 per hour.

Exploration Driller

Minerals Technologies

Belle Fourche, SD

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Minerals Technologies Inc. is a global, technology-driven specialty minerals company that develops, produces, and markets a wide range of minerals and mineral-based products and services.

Our products are an essential part of everyday life for millions of people around the world. They are used in consumer goods in paper and packaging, food and pharmaceuticals, household and personal care, pet care, automotives, and many more, as well as in industrial settings like steelmaking, metalcasting, construction, infrastructure, and wastewater remediation.

We are listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol MTX, headquartered in New York City, and have over 150 locations worldwide, with ~4,000 employees in 34 countries and 12 R&D centers.

We put people at the center of everything we do -- working safely, communicating openly, and managing our resources and businesses responsibly.

Company:  American Colloid Company, a Minerals Technologies company, is well known for establishing the global standard for premium foundry-grade bentonite and green sand molding materials for the metalcasting industry since 1927.

Job Title: Exploration Driller

Location: Belle Fourche, SD

What We Offer:

  • Competitive pay, commensurate with experience
  • Health/Dental/Vision plans
  • 401k company match
  • Life Insurance
  • Short Term Disability & Long-Term Disability
  • Educational Assistance
  • Employee Assistance Plan

Job Summary

We are seeking a motivated and safety-conscious Exploration Driller to join our exploration team. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to develop their skills and grow within ACC. No prior drilling experience is required—we will provide training for the right candidate.

The Exploration Driller will operate an auger drill to support mineral exploration projects, perform equipment maintenance, and ensure safe, efficient operations. Candidates must be willing to work outdoors, travel to various project sites, and obtain a CDL (training assistance provided).

Key Responsibilities

    •    Operate an auger drill under supervision to execute exploration programs.

    •    Conduct daily equipment inspections to ensure safe and reliable operations.

    •    Perform basic maintenance and cleaning of drilling equipment.

    •    Collect and record accurate drill sample data as directed by supervisors.

    •    Adhere to all safety procedures and contribute to a culture of safety.

    •    Assist in transporting equipment to and from project sites.

    •    Support general exploration activities as needed.


Required:

    •    Commitment to safety and teamwork.

    •    Willingness to learn and operate auger drilling equipment.

    •    Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

    •    Ability to travel and stay overnight for project assignments.

    •    Willingness to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)

Preferred:

    •    Mechanical aptitude or experience working with heavy equipment.

    •    Knowledge of basic safety practices in industrial settings.

What We Offer

    •    On-the-job training and skill development.

    •    Opportunities for advancement within ACC.

    •    CDL training assistance.

    •    Competitive wages and benefits package.

    •    A supportive team environment and a focus on safety and growth.

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