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Foundation Drill Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Aerotek

Driller Apprentice

Indianapolis, IN

$20/hr

Support the drill operator in the field during environmental and construction projects. * Move ... foundation for a long-term career in construction and environmental field services. Work ...

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Foundation Drill Operator information

What is a foundation drill operator?

Foundation Drill Operators are skilled professionals who operate heavy drilling equipment to create holes or shafts in the ground for constructing building foundations, bridges, or other large structures. They are responsible for setting up, maintaining, and safely operating drilling rigs according to engineering specifications and site requirements. Additionally, they must monitor drilling operations, ensure safety protocols are followed, and troubleshoot any mechanical issues that arise during the drilling process.

What does a foundation drill operator do?

A Foundation Drill Operator is responsible for safely operating drilling equipment to create holes or shafts for building foundations, often working in varied soil and weather conditions. Daily tasks include setting up and maintaining drilling rigs, reading site plans, collaborating closely with site engineers and crew members, and troubleshooting equipment issues. Common challenges include managing unexpected underground obstructions, ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols, and keeping projects on schedule despite variable site conditions. Strong communication and attention to detail are essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a foundation drill operator?

To thrive as a Foundation Drill Operator, you need expertise in operating drilling machinery, understanding construction blueprints, and a strong grasp of safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant on-the-job training. Familiarity with heavy equipment such as rotary drills, hydraulic systems, and sometimes certifications like OSHA safety training are typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving skills help operators adapt to changing site conditions and ensure teamwork. These competencies are crucial for maintaining safety, precision, and efficiency on construction sites involving deep foundations.

What is the difference between Foundation Drill Operator vs Drilling Rig Operator?

AspectFoundation Drill OperatorDrilling Rig Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, specialized training, OSHA certificationsHigh school diploma, certifications in rig operation, OSHA standards
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, urban and rural areas, close to building foundationsOil, gas, or mineral drilling sites, often outdoors and remote
Industry UsageConstruction, infrastructure projectsOil & gas, mineral exploration

Both roles involve operating heavy drilling equipment and require safety certifications. However, Foundation Drill Operators focus on drilling for construction foundations, while Drilling Rig Operators work on extracting resources like oil or minerals. The skills and certifications overlap, but the work environments and industry applications differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Foundation Drill Operator jobs in Indiana?

For Foundation Drill Operator jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Foundation Drill Operator jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Foundation Drill Operator jobs in Indiana are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Foundation Drill Operator jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Foundation Drill Operator job openings:

Foundation Drill Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Foundation Drill Operator job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Operator - Drill Rig - T Line Drill Crew

Winchester, IN • On-site

Cobalt Civil, LLC
Construction • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Cobalt Civil, LLCexternal

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Operator - Drill Rig - T Line Drill Crew
Department: Operations
Reports To: Supervisor
Company: Cobalt Civil, LLC
Location: Winchester, IN
Job Type: Full-Time - Hourly
Effective Date: 7/30/2026
Position Summary
Cobalt Civil is seeking a skilled, safety-focused Drill Rig Operator to support our Transmission Line Drill Crew on utility infrastructure projects throughout the Midwest. This position is responsible for safely operating truck-mounted and track-mounted drill rigs used for transmission line foundation construction while assisting the crew with daily field operations.
The ideal candidate has experience operating drilling equipment, working around heavy construction equipment, and maintaining a strong commitment to safety, quality, and productivity. This position requires frequent overnight travel and the ability to work in a physically demanding outdoor environment.
Key Responsibilities
  • Safely operate drill rigs and associated equipment used to construct transmission line foundations
  • Perform drilling operations according to project specifications, plans, and supervisor direction
  • Assist with drill setup, tear down, tooling changes, and equipment mobilization
  • Read plans, layouts, and grade information to accurately position and complete foundation locations
  • Work alongside laborers and equipment operators to support drilling, excavation, and concrete foundation activities
  • Load, unload, and organize tools, drill steel, augers, casings, and project materials
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and basic preventative maintenance
  • Identify and report equipment issues requiring repair or maintenance
  • Follow all company safety policies, OSHA requirements, and utility-specific safety procedures
  • Maintain clean, organized equipment and work areas
  • Communicate effectively with supervisors and crew members to ensure safe and efficient operations
  • Travel Monday through Friday to project sites as required

Qualifications
  • Previous experience operating drill rigs or heavy construction equipment required
  • Experience in transmission line, utility, foundation, or civil construction preferred
  • Mechanical aptitude with the ability to understand drilling equipment and perform routine maintenance
  • Ability to interpret construction plans, layouts, and grade stakes preferred
  • Ability to work safely around underground and overhead utilities
  • Ability to lift up to 75 pounds and perform physical labor as needed
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and terrain conditions
  • Strong work ethic, reliability, and commitment to safety
  • Valid driver's license required
  • Must pass pre-employment drug screening and background check

Preferred Qualifications
  • CDL Class A preferred
  • OSHA 10 certification preferred
  • Previous experience operating:
    • Altec or Texoma drill rigs
    • Track-mounted drill rigs
    • Foundation drilling equipment
  • Experience working on transmission line or utility infrastructure projects
  • Experience towing heavy equipment

Work Environment
This position works primarily outdoors on active utility construction sites with exposure to varying weather conditions, uneven terrain, noise, vibration, and heavy equipment. Overnight travel Monday through Friday, overtime, and occasional weekend work may be required based on project schedules.
Why Cobalt Civil
Cobalt Civil offers competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, career advancement opportunities, and the opportunity to work on critical transmission infrastructure projects throughout the region. We are committed to providing a safe, team-oriented work environment where employees can build long-term careers in the utility construction industry.

Apply