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Rock Drill Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Blast Hole Drill Operator

Douglasville, GA · On-site

$25.30 - $31.70/hr

Come rock your career at MD&B! DRILL OPERATOR Safely perform all construction or quarry drilling activity in accordance with the job program to achieve anticipated production. Responsibilities

Blast Hole Drill Operator

Greensboro, NC · On-site

$25.30 - $31.70/hr

Come rock your career at MD&B! DRILL OPERATOR Safely perform all construction or quarry drilling activity in accordance with the job program to achieve anticipated production. Responsibilities

Come rock your career at MD&B! DRILL OPERATOR Safely perform all construction or quarry drilling activity in accordance with the job program to achieve anticipated production. Responsibilities

Blast Hole Drill Operator-Quarry

Reading, PA · On-site

$25.30 - $31.70/hr

Come rock your career at MD&B! DRILL OPERATOR Safely perform all construction or quarry drilling activity in accordance with the job program to achieve anticipated production. Responsibilities

HDD Drill Operators

Joplin, MO · On-site

$30 - $36/hr

HORIZONTAL DIRECTIONAL DRILL OPERATOR We are looking to hire a Horizontal Directional Drill ... rock and other materials * Prepare and maintain equipment for safe daily operations * Able to set ...

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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?

The most popular types of Rock Drill Operator jobs are:

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.

Blast Hole Drill Operator

MDB Group

Douglasville, GA • On-site

$25.30 - $31.70/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Are you an experienced heavy equipment operator with experience with vertical and/or horizontal earth drilling? Do you have a high mechanical aptitude and the desire to advance within the drilling and blasting industry with a stable, growing, majority employee-owned company? If you answered YES to these questions, then we want to meet you!
At Precision Blasting, a division of MD&B we work with the unity of family and the determination of business owners. 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. Come rock your career at MD&B!
DRILL OPERATOR
Safely perform all construction or quarry drilling activity in accordance with the job program to achieve anticipated production.
Responsibilities
  • Follow Safety Policies and Procedures
  • Perform daily maintenance activities required for safe, efficient operation of assigned equipment
  • Understand different drill patterns and terminology then execute drill pattern and layout as established by the Blaster Foreman
  • Maximize the usage of all drill supplies
  • Inventory accessories, understand cost of accessories, maintenance drill accessories
  • Communicate problems and terrain conditions to the Blasting Supervisor
  • Understand the Field Accounting system and be able to accurately complete and submit timely drill reports, hole sheets, and signed timecards
  • Physical agility
  • Participate in meetings: Foreman's, safety, job specific, daily heads-up
  • Ability to work unsupervised while maintaining efficiency and safe work practices
  • Complete Driller I and Driller II training certifications
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications
  • Must have 5+ years hydraulic equipment operating experience
  • Valid Driver's License with own reliable transportation, must be a truck.
  • Must have personal cell phone for communications
  • One year experience in the construction industry
  • Experience as a construction laborer
  • Must hold a high level of common sense relative to equipment and machinery operation
  • Mechanical aptitude based on past experience around equipment, motors, hydraulic, electrical systems, ETC.
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment physical and drug screen
  • Must successful complete background screening for ATF

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

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

Does this sound like you? If it does, then go ahead and hit that APPLY button because we cannot wait to meet you!
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.