ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Underground Core Drilling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Timberline Drilling Inc.

Driller

Juneau, AK · Remote

$23.50 - $32/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

We are seeking dedicated individuals to help us provide top-tier core drilling services for both surface and underground mining operations nationwide, including Alaska. If you apply to one of the ...

Timberline Drilling Inc.

Driller

Juneau, AK · On-site

$24.25 - $33/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

We are seeking dedicated individuals to help us provide top-tier core drilling services for both surface and underground mining operations nationwide, including Alaska. If you apply to one of the ...

Timberline Drilling Inc.

Driller

Kellogg, ID · On-site

$21 - $28.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

We are seeking dedicated individuals to help us provide top-tier core drilling services for both surface and underground mining operations nationwide, including Alaska. If you apply to one of the ...

Timberline Drilling Inc.

Driller

Elko, NV · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

We are seeking dedicated individuals to help us provide top-tier core drilling services for both surface and underground mining operations nationwide, including Alaska. If you apply to one of the ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

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 Aug 13, 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?

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,781 per year, or $22 per hour.

Driller

Timberline Drilling Inc.

Juneau, AK • Remote

$23.50 - $32/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Thank you for your interest in working with Timberline Drilling! We are seeking dedicated individuals to help us provide top-tier core drilling services for both surface and underground mining operations nationwide, including Alaska.

If you apply to one of the open positions listed on our website, you will automatically be considered for any current openings at any of our locations. We value your interest and look forward to reviewing your application!

Job Requirements

  • Must be willing to work 12-hour shifts (day and night), up to 20 consecutive days followed by 10 days off (including weekends and holidays).
  • Must be willing to travel (including out of state) if no local work is available.

Your application will remain active for 60 days.

Job Duties

  • Commitment to Safety: Demonstrate a strong commitment to safety and the environment; work safely every day.
  • Hazard Identification: Recognize and address hazards and unsafe actions or conditions.
  • Policy Adherence: Know and follow Timberline Drilling Inc. company policies and procedures.
  • Leadership and Coordination: Provide leadership and coordinate with contractors and drill crews to ensure the safe and efficient placement of drills in work areas.
  • Equipment Operation: Safely and efficiently operate underground and surface core drills.
  • Crew Orientation: Provide leadership and training for drill crews in drilling and sampling processes, focusing on safe and effective procedures.
  • Client Communication: Work with client personnel to avoid scheduling conflicts between drilling and production.
  • Supply Management: Ensure drill program requirements are met by making drill supplies available in a timely and efficient manner.
  • Vehicle Operation: Safely operate four-wheel drive light vehicles under various conditions (wet, muddy, icy, paved, and unimproved roads).
  • Safety Compliance: Conduct and document regular drill inspections and safety meetings to comply with MSHA regulations and client safety guidelines.
  • Sample Processing: Lead and participate in the shipping of samples from the drill site to the processing facility, ensuring accurate documentation and safe transport.
  • Document Accuracy: Assist with processing drill-related documents for accuracy and completeness.
  • Communication: Communicate drill-related activities and issues with supervisors and other departments.
  • Troubleshooting: Troubleshoot down-hole drilling issues using experience and knowledge from similar situations.
  • Surveying: Ensure drill hole surveys are conducted accurately upon completion of each drill hole.

Requirements and Abilities

  • Ability to hear warning alarms and phone conversations.
  • Ability to read and interpret safety data sheets, warning signs, and gauges.
  • Capability to walk on rough, slick, or uneven terrain and climb stairs or ladders.
  • Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) including a hard hat, steel-toe shoes, safety glasses, respirator, earplugs, and gloves.
  • Ability to operate and maneuver light vehicles and drilling equipment safely.
  • Strong communication skills (verbal and written).
  • Basic math skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division).
  • Ability to lift up to 100 lbs and carry up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to climb ladders and onto equipment.
  • Willingness to work 12-hour shifts (day and night) for up to 20 consecutive days.
  • Willingness to work in extreme weather conditions (hot, cold, and wet).
  • Must be willing to travel for multi-day assignments away from home.
  • Must be at least 18 years old.
  • Must have a valid driver’s license.
  • Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
  • Must be authorized to work in the United States.

Benefits

  • Competitive Pay (Based on Experience)
  • Overtime Opportunities
  • Production & Safety Bonus Program
  • Clear Career Advancement Paths
  • Paid Travel Expenses
  • Per Diem for Travel Away from Home
  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Company-Paid Life Insurance
  • 401(k) with Employer Match

Interested in joining our team? We'd love to hear from you! Please apply directly on our company website:
https://timberlinedrillinginc.bamboohr.com/careers