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Rock Drill Operators Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ADB Wireless

Rock Drill Foreman

Pacific, MO · On-site

$30/hr

Has performed at least 1 year of independent operating of various equipment (directional drill, mini, plow, hydro, etc.); fully trained in all safety regulations of operating heavy equipment

Central Stone

Quarry Rock Driller

Pevely, MO · On-site

$21 - $28.25/hr

Experience operating rock drills and heavy equipment * Ability to perform rigorous physical activities in all weather conditions * Self-motivated with a sold work ethic Quarry Rock Driller Major ...

ADB

Rock Drill Foreman

Pacific, MO

$30/hr

Has performed at least 1 year of independent operating of various equipment (directional drill, mini, plow, hydro, etc.); fully trained in all safety regulations of operating heavy equipment

ADB Wireless

Rock Drill Foreman

Pacific, MO · On-site

$30/hr

Has performed at least 1 year of independent operating of various equipment (directional drill, mini, plow, hydro, etc.); fully trained in all safety regulations of operating heavy equipment

ADB

Rock Drill Foreman

Jefferson City, MO

$30/hr

Has performed at least 1 year of independent operating of various equipment (directional drill, mini, plow, hydro, etc.); fully trained in all safety regulations of operating heavy equipment

Barnes, Inc.

Be Seen First

Rock Driller

Boise, ID · On-site

$33.74 - $47.20/hr

Experienced Rock Driller Wanted - Boise, ID Area We are seeking an experienced Rock Driller to join ... Experience operating self-contained hydraulic track drills is a must * Ability to perform ...

ADB

Rock Drill Foreman

Jefferson City, MO

$30/hr

Has performed at least 1 year of independent operating of various equipment (directional drill, mini, plow, hydro, etc.); fully trained in all safety regulations of operating heavy equipment

ADB Wireless

Rock Drill Foreman*

Pacific, MO · On-site

$30/hr

Has performed at least 1 year of independent operating of various equipment (directional drill, mini, plow, hydro, etc.); fully trained in all safety regulations of operating heavy equipment

ADB

Rock Drill Foreman*

Pacific, MO

$30/hr

Has performed at least 1 year of independent operating of various equipment (directional drill, mini, plow, hydro, etc.); fully trained in all safety regulations of operating heavy equipment

ADB

Rock Drill Foreman

Pacific, MO

$30/hr

Has performed at least 1 year of independent operating of various equipment (directional drill, mini, plow, hydro, etc.); fully trained in all safety regulations of operating heavy equipment

McCallum Rock Drilling

Diesel Mechanic

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

McCallum Rock Drilling (MRD) is a rock drilling and blasting contractor based out of Chehalis, WA ... There will be times where he/she is needed to transport parts and supplies to operators in the ...

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Rock Drill Operators information

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$13

$27

$51

How much do rock drill operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for rock drill operators 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Rock Drill Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Rock Drill Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and experience with drilling operations, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with drilling machinery, safety protocols, and certifications like MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration) are typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong problem-solving skills help operators adapt to challenging environments and maintain safety. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure efficient, safe, and precise drilling operations in demanding worksites.

What are some common challenges Rock Drill Operators face on the job, and how can they be addressed?

Rock Drill Operators often encounter challenges such as working in noisy, dusty, or confined environments and managing equipment maintenance. Adhering to strict safety protocols and wearing protective gear is essential to mitigate health risks. Additionally, operators must remain attentive to equipment performance and communicate closely with their team to identify hazards and coordinate tasks efficiently. Regular training and a strong safety culture help address these challenges, making the work environment safer and more productive.

What are Rock Drill Operators?

Rock Drill Operators are skilled workers who use specialized drilling equipment to bore holes in rock surfaces, typically for mining, construction, or quarrying purposes. They are responsible for setting up and operating rock drilling machines, ensuring the correct placement and depth of holes for blasting or excavation. These operators must also maintain their equipment, follow safety protocols, and often work in challenging environments such as underground mines or construction sites.

What is the difference between Rock Drill Operators vs Blasters?

AspectRock Drill OperatorsBlasters
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, training in drilling techniquesExplosive handling certifications, safety training, sometimes additional licenses
Work EnvironmentQuarries, construction sites, mining operations, underground or surfaceMining sites, quarries, areas requiring controlled explosions
Job RoleOperate drilling equipment to create holes for blasting or constructionSet up and detonate explosives to break rock or earth

While both roles work in mining and construction environments, Rock Drill Operators focus on operating drilling machinery, whereas Blasters handle explosive setup and detonation. They often work together but have distinct responsibilities and certifications.

More about Rock Drill Operators jobs
What states have the most Rock Drill Operators jobs? States with the most job openings for Rock Drill Operators jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Rock Drill Operators jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Rock Drill Operators jobs are:
Rock Drill Operators jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rock Drill Operators job openings in the United States as of July 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.
Drill/Blast Apprentice

Drill/Blast Apprentice

McCallum Rock Drilling

Salt Lake City, UT

$21 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Join our team and help build the infrastructure of our community! This is a great entry-level opportunity for those interested in construction and skilled trades. We offer on-the-job training and opportunities for career advancement as well as great benefits and a fun team atmosphere.Every day is spent in the great outdoors and no two job sites are the same. The ideal candidate has humility and the willingness to learn, and wants to be part of a team to accomplish things bigger than they could on their own.


We are hiring Drilling Apprentices to join our team in the Salt Lake City region! He or she will be responsible for loading and unloading explosives from the powder trucks, assist with the borehole loading process, and will carry buckets of stemming stone to stem blast holes. When you're not helping with the explosive loading process, you'll be spending time around our rock drill machines, training and understanding how to operate rock drills. This is a great opportunity for someone that wants to pursue a career operating heavy equipment. The ideal candidate will be physically fit and willing to work in a fast-paced environment. Must be willing to travel and stay out of town when needed. If you have a great attitude, love to work hard, and are eager to build a career operating equipment, send us a resume today!


McCallum Rock Drilling (MRD) is a rock drilling and blasting contractor based out of Chehalis, WA, and has been in business since 1988. MRD operates in commercial quarries, timberlands and construction sites throughout the Western US.


Minimum skills and qualifications include:

  • Valid driver's license with proof of insurance
  • Able to pass pre-employment drug test (Safety Sensitive)
  • Clean driving record (no more than three moving violations within the last three years)
  • Clean background (no felonies)
  • Must have reliable transportation
  • Must have positive attitude and strong work ethic
  • Willing to work early mornings and long days to get the job done
  • Willingness to work in all weather conditions year round
  • At least 1-3 years of prior construction and/or mining experience preferred
  • At least one year of operating experience preferred
  • Ability to work weekends if needed
  • Applicants must reside within the Salt Lake City region to be eligible

Benefits include:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision Coverage (100% paid for the employee)
  • 401k Option (4% match)
  • PTO (accrual based)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Employee Referral Bonus Program
  • Career Advancement Opportunities
  • Hours will vary depending on the season
  • Hourly Rate: $21.00 - $25.00

Apply