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Foundation Drill Rig Operator Jobs in Lebanon, PA

Blaster Trainee (Construction)

Bethel, PA · On-site

$24.30 - $29.50/hr

... foundation as we relate to customers and each other as we Make it Happen! BLASTER TRAINEE ... Assists Blaster with drill pattern layout and setup and reviews this with the drill operator

Blaster Trainee (Quarry)

Lancaster, PA · On-site

$24.30 - $29.50/hr

... foundation as we relate to customers and each other as we Make it Happen! BLASTER TRAINEE ... Assists Blaster with drill pattern layout and setup and reviews this with the drill operator

Foundation Drill Rig Operator information

See Lebanon, PA salary details

$12

$27

$50

How much do foundation drill rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for foundation drill rig operator in Lebanon, PA is $27.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.53 and $30.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a foundation drill rig operator?

Foundation Drill Rig Operators are skilled professionals who operate heavy drilling equipment to create holes or shafts in the ground for building foundations, such as those used in bridges, skyscrapers, and other large structures. Their work involves reading blueprints, setting up and maintaining drilling rigs, monitoring drill operations, and ensuring safety protocols are followed on construction sites. These operators play a crucial role in the early stages of construction projects, as the stability and safety of the entire structure often depend on the quality of the drilled foundations.

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

To thrive as a Foundation Drill Rig Operator, you need hands-on experience with heavy equipment, knowledge of soil and drilling techniques, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with drill rig controls, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications like OSHA or NCCCO are typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help operators manage site challenges and communicate effectively with crew members. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and precise drilling operations that are critical for successful foundation construction.

What are some common challenges faced by foundation drill rig operators on construction sites?

Foundation Drill Rig Operators often encounter challenges such as working in confined or uneven spaces, dealing with varying soil conditions, and adhering to strict safety protocols. Adaptability is crucial, as unexpected obstacles like underground utilities or adverse weather can impact drilling progress. Operators regularly collaborate with site supervisors, engineers, and other trades to ensure that drilling meets project specifications and timelines while maintaining a safe work environment.

What is the difference between Foundation Drill Rig Operator vs Pile Driver?

AspectFoundation Drill Rig OperatorPile Driver
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operation licensesOSHA safety training, equipment operation licenses
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, drilling locationsConstruction sites, pile driving areas
Job DutiesOperate drilling machinery for foundation installationDrive piles into the ground to support structures

Both roles require safety certifications and involve working on construction sites. The Foundation Drill Rig Operator specializes in operating drilling equipment for foundation work, while the Pile Driver focuses on driving piles into the ground. Although their tasks differ, they share similar skills and work environments, often overlapping in construction projects.

What job categories do people searching Foundation Drill Rig Operator jobs in Lebanon, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Foundation Drill Rig Operator jobs in Lebanon, PA are:

Infographic showing various Foundation Drill Rig Operator job openings in Lebanon, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,915 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

Blaster Trainee (Construction)

Maine Drilling & Blasting Inc

Bethel, PA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago


Maine Drilling & Blasting rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Are you experienced in working with drills and explosives? Do you have previous military experience in explosive handling? If so, we would love to have you join us as a Blaster Trainee to gain some hands-on experience and learn how we do our blasting out in the field! This role will assist the Blaster with the coordination of daily drilling and blasting activity. This position is considered an “on the job” trainee or “apprentice” with respect to learning blasting and job site supervision, but it is required to have some experience working with explosives.

Come work with the best! At Maine Drilling & Blasting, we work with the unity of family and the determination of business owners. As a majority Employee Owned company we provide a unique and generous array of benefits including two retirement plans, an Employer-contributed Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and company matched 401(k). In addition to health, dental, vision, life, and disability benefits, we also offer training and development opportunities. The sky is the limit, come rock your career! Our core values of Respect, Fairness, Honesty, and Responsibility provide a firm cultural foundation as we relate to customers and each other as we Make it Happen!

BLASTER TRAINEE-CONSTRUCTION 

We are looking for a candidate that is experienced with explosives handling to assist the Blaster with the coordination of daily drilling and blasting activity. This position is considered an “on the job” trainee or “apprentice” with respect to learning blasting and job site supervision, but it is required to have some experience working with explosives.

Responsibilities

  • Assists the Blaster in charge with coordinating daily drilling & blasting activities
  • Trains to be proficient in all areas of blasting techniques
  • Develops a solid understanding of proper explosives product use and various applications
  • Assists the Blaster with maintaining the daily blasting production schedule
  • Assists the Blaster with site security
  • Understands and follows company safety policies and procedures and performs work in a safe manner
  • Attends company meetings as required

  • Participates in daily heads-up meetings
  • Assists Blaster with setting up seismographs and works towards proficiency with use
  • Assists Blaster with drill pattern layout and setup and reviews this with the drill operator
  • Assists Blaster with monitoring the relationship between blast pattern and type of digging
  • Assists Blaster with accounting for explosives and drill supply usage and inventory
  • May transport explosives across state lines
  • May complete trip manifest, shot reports, cost sheets and related paperwork as required
  • All other duties as assigned

Qualifications

  • High School Degree
  • MUST have at least two years' experience working with drills and explosives, or previous military experience in explosive handling
  • Demonstrates basic blasting problem solving skills
  • Able to travel out of town as needed
  • Ability to obtain blasting licenses
  • Must be able to pass ATF screenings

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to perform essential functions of the position
  • Ability to lift 50 - 100 lbs., 30 - 40% of the time
  • Work on uneven and loose surfaces in varying weather environments
  • Stooping and bending 30 – 40% of the time

Skeptical about advancement opportunities? Check out these videos:

  • Dante (CST) talks about what it’s like to work at MD&B: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zrSWPW4Qbgo
  • Dan (CEO) talks about career advancement opportunities: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gvloIft9KPY

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