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Underground Core Drilling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Timberline Drilling

Mechanic

Elko, NV

HYDRAULIC MECHANIC Responsible for service, repair, and maintenance of surface and underground core drilling rigsand support equipment. The ideal candidate will have experience working with electric ...

Timberline Drilling Inc.

Mechanic

Elko, NV · On-site

HYDRAULIC MECHANIC Responsible for service, repair, and maintenance of surface and underground core drilling rigs and support equipment. The ideal candidate will have experience working with electric ...

Timberline Drilling Inc.

Mechanic

Elko, NV · On-site

DOE HYDRAULIC MECHANIC Responsible for service, repair, and maintenance of surface and underground core drilling rigsand support equipment. The ideal candidate will have experience working with ...

Turner Mining Group

Core Logging Geologist

Elko, NV · On-site

This position will be responsible for detailed geological logging, sampling, and interpretation of drill core to support ongoing underground and surface exploration and production activities. The ...

Turner Mining Group

Core Logging Geologist

Elko, NV · On-site

This position will be responsible for detailed geological logging, sampling, and interpretation of drill core to support ongoing underground and surface exploration and production activities. The ...

Turner Mining Group

Core Logging Geologist

Elko, NV

This position will be responsible for detailed geological logging, sampling, and interpretation of drill core to support ongoing underground and surface exploration and production activities. The ...

Timberline Drilling

Driller's Assistant

Juneau, AK

$90K/yr

We are looking for motivated and dedicated individuals to assist us in providing core drilling services for surface and underground mining operations nationwide, including Alaska. This is a great ...

Timberline Drilling

Driller's Assistant

Kellogg, ID · On-site

$90K/yr

We are looking for motivated and dedicated individuals to assist us in providing core drilling services for surface and underground mining operations nationwide, including Alaska. This is a great ...

Timberline Drilling

Driller's Assistant

Elko, NV · On-site

$90K/yr

We are looking for motivated and dedicated individuals to assist us in providing core drilling services for surface and underground mining operations nationwide, including Alaska. This is a great ...

Timberline Drilling

Driller's Assistant

Virginia, MN · On-site

$90K/yr

We are looking for motivated and dedicated individuals to assist us in providing core drilling services for surface and underground mining operations nationwide, including Alaska. This is a great ...

Timberline Drilling Inc.

Driller's Assistant

Elko, NV · Remote

We are looking for motivated and dedicated individuals to assist us in providing core drilling services for surface and underground mining operations nationwide, including Alaska. This is a great ...

Timberline Drilling Inc.

Driller's Assistant

Juneau, AK · On-site

$90K/yr

We are looking for motivated and dedicated individuals to assist us in providing core drilling services for surface and underground mining operations nationwide, including Alaska. This is a great ...

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All JobsUnderground Core Drilling Jobs

Underground Core Drilling information

See salary details

$13

$22

$40

How much do underground core drilling jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground core drilling in the United States is $22.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is underground core drilling?

Underground core drilling is a specialized mining and geological technique used to collect cylindrical samples of rock (called cores) from beneath the earth's surface. This method helps geologists and mining companies study the composition, structure, and mineral content of underground formations. Core samples provide valuable information for resource estimation, mine planning, and exploration of minerals or hydrocarbons. The process involves using a hollow drill bit that cuts through rock, capturing a core sample inside the tube for analysis. Safety and precision are crucial in underground environments due to confined spaces and challenging conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Underground Core Drilling Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Underground Core Drilling Operator, you need a solid understanding of drilling techniques, geology, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or trade certification. Familiarity with drilling rigs, core sampling equipment, and safety management systems (such as MSHA certification) is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are necessary to ensure safe, efficient core extraction and accurate geological data collection in challenging underground environments.

What are some common challenges faced by underground core drilling professionals and how are they typically addressed?

Underground core drilling professionals often encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, dealing with variable and sometimes unstable geological conditions, and maintaining rigorous safety standards. To address these, teams conduct thorough site assessments, use specialized equipment designed for underground operations, and adhere to strict safety protocols. Continuous communication with geologists and engineers is key to adapting drilling techniques and ensuring both efficiency and safety. Ongoing training and collaboration with other mining or construction teams are also crucial for successfully overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Underground Core Drilling vs Horizontal Directional Drilling?

AspectUnderground Core DrillingHorizontal Directional Drilling
CredentialsDrilling certifications, safety trainingSimilar certifications, specialized training
Work EnvironmentUnderground, confined spacesUnderground, surface, or open areas
Industry UsageMining, geotechnical, mineral explorationUtilities, oil & gas, infrastructure
Search & Comparison IntentTechnical drilling methods, underground explorationUtility installation, directional drilling techniques

Underground Core Drilling focuses on extracting core samples from beneath the surface, often for geological or mineral analysis, typically in confined underground environments. Horizontal Directional Drilling involves installing underground utilities or pipelines with minimal surface disruption, often in open or accessible areas. While both roles require specialized drilling skills and certifications, they serve different industry needs and environments.

More about Underground Core Drilling jobs
What states have the most Underground Core Drilling jobs? States with the most job openings for Underground Core Drilling jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Underground Core Drilling jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Underground Core Drilling jobs are:
Underground Core Drilling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Underground Core Drilling job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,781 per year, or $22 per hour.

Underground Core Driller

Nasco Industrial Services & Supply

Kellogg, ID • On-site

$21 - $28.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 24 days ago

Job description


NISS – Underground Core Driller

Location: Western USA
Position Type: Full-time, rotational (e.g. 14 days on / 14 days off or 20 days on / 10 days off)
Reporting To: Underground Supervisor / Project Manager

About NISS

NISS specializes in underground, surface, and helicopter-supported core drilling for the mining and exploration industries. Our crews operate across Nevada, Idaho, Montana, and Arizona — delivering precision, performance, and safety in every meter drilled. We take pride in our people, providing advanced training, steady rotations, and long-term opportunities for professional growth.

Position Overview

We are hiring experienced Underground Core Drillers to join our elite team. The successful candidate will safely and efficiently operate underground core drills in challenging environments while leading assistants and maintaining strict adherence to safety and production targets.

This role requires strong mechanical aptitude, sound decision-making, and the ability to adapt to underground mine conditions. You’ll work closely with supervisors, clients, and engineering staff to meet daily objectives and uphold NISS’s reputation for reliability and quality.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain underground core drilling rigs and support systems
• Direct and train Driller Assistants; oversee safe handling of core, rods, and tooling
• Execute pre-shift inspections, safety meetings, and documentation per MSHA and client protocols
• Set up and move drill stations safely within confined underground headings
• Maintain alignment, hole deviation control, and accurate depth measurements
• Troubleshoot mechanical or hydraulic issues on rigs and ancillary equipment
• Complete daily production and safety reports
• Ensure proper ventilation, scaling, and water management around drill sites
• Communicate effectively with shift bosses, mine engineers, and NISS supervisors
• Uphold NISS’s values of safety, professionalism, and teamwork in all operations

Qualifications & Requirements

• 2+ years of underground core drilling experience preferred (B, N, H and P size holes)
• Demonstrated mechanical and hydraulic troubleshooting skills
• Proficiency in core orientation, deviation control, and sample handling
• Ability to lead and train assistants in underground environments
• Current MSHA certification or willingness to obtain
• Physically fit and comfortable working in confined, wet, and high-temperature conditions
• Valid driver’s license with clean record
• Must pass pre-employment drug, alcohol, and background checks
• Commitment to a safety-first culture and continuous improvement

Work Schedule & Conditions

• Typical rotations: 14 days on / 14 days off or 20 days on / 10 days off
• 12-hour shifts, day or night, underground mine environment
• Exposure to humidity, confined spaces, noise, and dust
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) required and provided
• Travel and camp accommodations provided for remote assignments

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive hourly wage based on experience
• Overtime and night-shift premium pay
• Per diem or travel allowances when applicable
• Full benefits package (health, dental, vision, life insurance)
• 401(k) or equivalent retirement program
• Paid safety and technical training • Clear advancement path: Driller → Lead Driller → Foreman / Superintendent