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Mud Rotary Drilling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ConeTec

Mud Rotary & Auger (Driller)

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Set up and operate mud rotary drilling and auger equipment, sampling systems, geophysical instruments and other in-situ testing equipment following ConeTec's procedures in a safe and productive ...

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 II

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$21.75 - $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 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

Wichita, KS · On-site

$22.75 - $30.75/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 ...

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Mud Rotary Drilling information

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$15

$28

$40

How much do mud rotary drilling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for mud rotary drilling in the United States is $28.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $35.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is mud rotary drilling?

Mud rotary drilling is a common drilling technique used to bore holes into the ground, primarily for water wells, exploration, and geotechnical investigations. In this method, a rotating drill bit is used to cut through the earth, while drilling mud (a mixture of water and additives) is pumped down the drill pipe to lubricate the bit, remove cuttings, and stabilize the borehole. The mud carries the cuttings to the surface, allowing for deeper and more stable drilling in a variety of soil conditions. This process is favored for its efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and ability to drill through unconsolidated formations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mud rotary drilling operator?

To thrive as a Mud Rotary Drilling Operator, you need a solid understanding of drilling techniques, soil and rock formations, and safety protocols, often backed by vocational training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with drilling rigs, mud pumps, drilling fluids management systems, and maintenance tools is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for managing complex drilling operations and adapting to changing site conditions. These competencies ensure safe, efficient drilling processes and minimize downtime or hazards on the job site.

What are some common challenges faced by mud rotary drilling operators in the field, and how can they be addressed?

Mud Rotary Drilling operators often encounter challenges such as managing drilling fluid properties, dealing with unexpected subsurface conditions, and maintaining equipment efficiency in remote locations. Ensuring the right mud composition is crucial to prevent borehole collapse and facilitate smooth cuttings removal. Operators should be proactive in monitoring mud viscosity and making real-time adjustments. Close collaboration with geologists and regular communication with maintenance crews help address issues swiftly, ensuring safety and project success.

What is the difference between Mud Rotary Drilling vs Air Rotary Drilling?

AspectMud Rotary DrillingAir Rotary Drilling
CredentialsDrilling certifications, safety trainingSimilar certifications, safety protocols
Work EnvironmentWet, muddy conditions, deep boreholesDry, dusty, shallow to moderate depths
Industry UsageGeotechnical, environmental, mineral explorationGeotechnical, mineral exploration, construction

Both Mud Rotary Drilling and Air Rotary Drilling are common in the drilling industry, sharing similar certifications and work environments. Mud Rotary uses drilling mud to cool the bit and remove cuttings, making it suitable for deep and unstable formations. Air Rotary employs compressed air for cuttings removal, ideal for shallower, dry formations. The choice depends on project requirements, formation type, and environmental considerations.

More about Mud Rotary Drilling jobs

What job categories do people searching Mud Rotary Drilling jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Mud Rotary Drilling jobs are:

Mud Rotary Drilling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mud Rotary 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 $60,264 per year, or $29 per hour.

Mud Rotary & Auger (Driller)

Salt Lake City, UT • On-site

ConeTec Group
See more jobs at ConeTec Groupexternal

$20 - $23/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

ABOUT THE COMPANY

ConeTec is an international full-service geo-environmental and geotechnical site characterization contractor. We offer clients superior project management and site investigation services across the globe, with a large presence in the Americas and Australia. ConeTec is known in the industry as a great place to work. We commit to all employees that we will provide a respectful, positive, and enriching work environment. We want you to look forward to going to work every day. We reward and recognize staff for exceptional contributions to the company. Our success is a direct result of the people who work here.


ConeTec offers a comprehensive benefits package for all regular full-time employees including extended health, dental, long-term disability and life insurance, wellness program, RRSP matching, corporate stock incentives, a referral bonus, professional development and more.


SCOPE OF POSITION


Responsible for operating heavy machinery in a variety of environments, the Mud Rotary & Auger Driller will conduct basic maintenance and provide consistent, high-quality upkeep of the rig and general working area while abiding by all safety regulations. A successful candidate must have the ability to multi-task with an eye for efficiency and a safety mindset.


ROLES, RESPONSIBILITIES & EXPECTATIONS


Equipment Operation

  • Set up and operate mud rotary drilling and auger equipment, sampling systems, geophysical instruments and other in-situ testing equipment following ConeTec’s procedures in a safe and productive manner.
  • Provide timely assistance to Engineers and Technicians as required.
  • Assist with the mobilization and demobilization of equipment in hard-to-access environments.
  • Perform routine maintenance on various pieces of equipment to ensure optimal performance.


Health & Safety

  • Identify with and respect ConeTec's safety culture, first and foremost.
  • Ensure proper preparation and knowledge of all necessary safe operating procedures before beginning any job.
  • Report any safety-related incidents, infractions, or near misses to the Project Manager and the HSE Officer, immediately.
  • Know and follow the incident reporting protocol at all times.


Other General Responsibilities

  • Communicate with the Supervisor or Project Manager as to any equipment problems or needs, as well as any field observations that might be of use.
  • Seek ways to improve operating procedures/processes.
  • Perform other shop functions as required.


SKILLS, QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED


Education Requirements

  • High School Diploma required.
  • Driver's license (minimum Class 5) and clean driving record.
  • Commercial driver's license an asset.


Experience Requirements

  • Have experience or training relevant to geotechnical fieldwork and equipment, drilling/sampling and/or heavy equipment operations/mechanics.
  • Able to work outdoors and travel for extended periods of time.


Technical Skill Requirements

  • Electrical and mechanical skills are an asset but not required.
  • Must be able to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting, moving heavy materials up to 50 lbs, climbing, crawling as well as walking on uneven ground, and working long hours in all weather conditions.


Soft Skill Requirements

  • Willingness to work with a wide variety of equipment
  • Willingness to work long hours outdoors in all conditions
  • Willingness to work hard, and travel for work
  • Willingness to perform both shops based and field-based work
  • Willing to learn new advanced geotechnical testing techniques involving sophisticated electronic testing equipment
  • Positive attitude in the workplace



As part of our dedicated focus on the health and safety of all employees, and due to the requirement that employees be able to safely complete the tasks associated with this job position, a successful candidate may be required to take a pre-employment fit for duty test, including a drug and alcohol testing, and complete a satisfactory criminal record check.


ConeTec is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status, or any other status protected by applicable law.