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Rock Drill Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rock Drill Operator

Cheney, WA · On-site

$21 - $30/hr

MRD is seeking a full-time Rock Drill Equipment Operator to operate out of the Eastern Washington territory. The ideal candidate will have some prior construction and heavy equipment operating ...

Rock Drill Operator

Cheney, WA · On-site

$21 - $30/hr

MRD is seeking a full-time Rock Drill Equipment Operator to operate out of the Eastern Washington territory. The ideal candidate will have some prior construction and heavy equipment operating ...

Rock Drill Operator

Cheney, WA · On-site

$21 - $30/hr

McCallum Rock Drilling (MRD) is a rock drilling and blasting contractor based out of Chehalis, WA ... The ideal candidate will have some prior construction and heavy equipment operating experience. The ...

Rock Drill Apprentice

Chehalis, WA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

McCallum Rock Drilling (MRD) is a rock drilling and blasting contractor based out of Chehalis, WA ... This is a great opportunity for someone that is eager to pursue a career operating heavy equipment.

Rock Drill Apprentice

Chehalis, WA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

McCallum Rock Drilling (MRD) is a rock drilling and blasting contractor based out of Chehalis, WA ... This is a great opportunity for someone that is eager to pursue a career operating heavy equipment.

Rock Drill Apprentice

Chehalis, WA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

McCallum Rock Drilling (MRD) is a rock drilling and blasting contractor based out of Chehalis, WA ... This is a great opportunity for someone that is eager to pursue a career operating heavy equipment.

Rock Driller

Martinsburg, WV · On-site

$23.25 - $31.50/hr

ROCK DRILLER JMR Construction is looking for an experienced Rock Driller ... Track Drill Operator to join our team. WHAT WE OFFER * Pay Based on Experience * Medical, Dental ...

New

Rock Driller

Martinsburg, WV · On-site

$23.25 - $31.50/hr

ROCK DRILLER JMR Construction is looking for an experienced Rock Driller ... Track Drill Operator to join our team. WHAT WE OFFER * Pay Based on Experience * Medical, Dental ...

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Rock Drill Operator information

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$13

$27

$51

How much do rock drill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for rock drill 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 rock drill operator?

A Rock Drill Operator operates drilling equipment to break rock and create holes for construction, mining, or excavation projects. They read blueprints, set up drills, monitor drilling speed, and ensure safety protocols are followed. The job requires physical stamina, mechanical skills, and knowledge of different drilling techniques and equipment. Rock Drill Operators often work in challenging environments such as tunnels, quarries, and open-pit mines.

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

To thrive as a Rock Drill Operator, you need practical experience with drilling equipment, a solid understanding of drilling procedures, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with pneumatic and hydraulic drill systems, as well as certifications in equipment operation or mine safety, are commonly required. Reliability, attention to detail, and the ability to work well in a team are valuable soft skills in this role. These qualifications ensure safe, efficient drilling operations and help maintain productivity and safety standards on job sites.

What is a typical work environment like for a rock drill operator?

Rock Drill Operators frequently work outdoors or in underground environments such as mines, tunnels, or construction sites, often exposed to varying weather conditions, noise, and dust. The job typically involves working as part of a team alongside blasters, engineers, and other heavy equipment operators to meet project goals and deadlines. Shifts can be long and physically demanding, and safety protocols are rigorously enforced due to the hazardous nature of the work. While challenging, operators often find satisfaction in being an essential part of large construction or mining projects and can access advancement opportunities by gaining experience or additional certifications.

How much do rock drill operators make?

Rock drill operators typically earn a median annual wage of around $45,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy machinery may earn higher wages and overtime pay due to the physically demanding environment and safety requirements.

How to become a rock drill operator?

To become a rock drill operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or an apprenticeship to learn how to operate drilling equipment safely and effectively. Certification in equipment operation and safety standards may be required, and physical fitness is important due to the demanding nature of the work environment.
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What cities are hiring for Rock Drill Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Rock Drill Operator job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Rock Drill Operator jobs?

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What states have the most Rock Drill Operator jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Rock Drill Operator 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 $57,917 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

$21 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

McCallum Rock Drilling (MRD) is a rock drilling and blasting contractor based out of Chehalis, WA, that has been in business since 1988. MRD operates in commercial quarries, timberlands and construction sites throughout the Western US.
MRD is seeking a full-time Rock Drill Equipment Operator to operate out of the Eastern Washington territory. The ideal candidate will have some prior construction and heavy equipment operating experience. The candidate must be willing to travel and stay out of town as needed. The applicant must have a clean driving record and will be expected to pass a pre-employment drug screening test.
Minimum responsibilities include:
  • Safely follow all MRD policies and procedures
  • Able to perform daily maintenance on all heavy equipment
  • Basic knowledge of drill terminology
  • Ability to productively execute proper drill layout and patterns, instructed by their Project Manager
  • Responsible for managing and maintaining all drill supplies, tools, and accessories
  • Ability to accurately record all drill patterns/reports and submit them in a timely manner
  • Expected to complete daily timesheets and safety checklists accurately
  • Communicate mechanical or terrain issues with Project Manager
  • Ability to operate efficiently and productively with limited supervision
  • Able to work out of town

Minimum skills and qualifications include:
  • Valid driver's license with proof of insurance
  • Able to pass pre-employment drug test
  • Clean driving record (no more than 3 moving violations within last 3 years)
  • Clean background (no felonies)
  • Reliable transportation to our base shop
  • Candidate must have a positive attitude and strong work ethic
  • Strong communication skills
  • Mechanical aptitude desired
  • Prior construction laborer experience a plus
  • Must be willing to work long days (weekends occasionally)

Benefits include:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision Coverage (100% paid for the employee)
  • 401k Option (4% company match)
  • PTO (accrual based)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Employee Referral Bonus Program
  • Career Advancement Opportunities
  • 45-55 hours/week
  • Hourly Rate: $21.00 - $30.00