ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Foundation Drill Rig Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bureau of Reclamation

Drill Rig Operator

Billings, MT · On-site +1

$41.56 - $48.49/hr

Billings, Montana Learn more about this agency Duties Help The major duties of the Drill Rig Operator position include, but are not limited to, the following: - Conduct all types of drilling that ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsConstruction JobsDrilling JobsDrill Operator JobsFoundation Drill Rig Operator Jobs

Foundation Drill Rig Operator information

See salary details

$13

$27

$51

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

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for foundation drill rig operator in the United States is $27.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $31.01 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.

More about Foundation Drill Rig Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Foundation Drill Rig Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Foundation Drill Rig Operator job openings:

What states have the most Foundation Drill Rig Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Foundation Drill Rig Operator jobs include:

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

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

Foundation Drill Rig Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Foundation Drill Rig Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,917 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Operator - Drill Rig - T Line Drill Crew

Cobalt Civil

Winchester, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

My Account
Career Opportunities >> Operator - Drill Rig - T Line Drill Crew
Operator - Drill Rig - T Line Drill Crew
Summary
Title: Operator - Drill Rig - T Line Drill Crew ID: OPE-DR Department: Operations Location: Winchester, IN
More about this 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 Now
 
Refer to a Friend

Alternatively, you can apply to this job using your profile from Indeed by clicking the button below:


Copyright 2026 Cobalt Civil, LLC. All rights reserved.
Powered by ApplicantStack Hiring Software
Privacy Policy | Terms of Use

Apply