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Vertical Drill Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MDB Group

Drill Operator (Quarry)

Rochester, NY · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

About The Opportunity Are you an experienced heavy equipment operator with experience with vertical and/or horizontal drilling? Do you have a high mechanical aptitude and the desire to advance within ...

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Vertical Drill Operator information

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$13

$27

$51

How much do vertical drill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for vertical 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 vertical drill operator?

A Vertical Drill Operator is a skilled worker who operates and maintains drilling machines that create vertical holes in various materials, such as soil, rock, or concrete. These professionals are commonly employed in construction, mining, and oil and gas industries to facilitate projects like foundation work, exploration, or extraction. They are responsible for setting up the drilling equipment, monitoring the drilling process, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and performing routine maintenance on the machinery. Vertical Drill Operators often work as part of a larger team and must follow strict safety guidelines to prevent accidents.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a vertical drill operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Vertical Drill Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, knowledge of drilling techniques, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant safety training. Familiarity with operating drilling rigs, computerized drilling controls, and maintenance tools is commonly required, and certifications such as OSHA or MSHA may be necessary for certain worksites. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure safe, efficient drilling operations and the prevention of costly mistakes or accidents.

What are some common challenges vertical drill operators face on the job, and how can they be managed?

Vertical Drill Operators often encounter challenges such as varying ground conditions, equipment malfunctions, and maintaining safety standards in changing environments. Navigating unexpected geological formations requires adaptability and problem-solving skills, while regular maintenance checks help prevent downtime due to mechanical issues. Proactive communication with site supervisors and adhering to safety protocols are essential for managing these challenges effectively. Operators who stay current with training and industry best practices tend to succeed in overcoming on-site obstacles.

What is the difference between Vertical Drill Operator vs Horizontal Drill Operator?

AspectVertical Drill OperatorHorizontal Drill Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, CDL often preferredOSHA safety training, CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, oil and gas fields, miningConstruction sites, oil and gas fields, mining
Job DutiesDrills vertical holes for foundations, blasting, or explorationDrills horizontal or angled holes for pipelines, utilities, or underground work

Both Vertical Drill Operators and Horizontal Drill Operators work in similar environments and require comparable certifications. The main difference lies in the drilling orientation: vertical versus horizontal. Vertical Drill Operators focus on vertical holes for foundational or exploration purposes, while Horizontal Drill Operators specialize in horizontal or angled drilling for utilities or pipeline installation. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How to become a vertical drill operator?

To become a vertical drill operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or an apprenticeship to learn operating procedures and safety protocols. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the industry and location, and familiarity with drilling equipment and safety standards is essential.

What are popular job titles related to Vertical Drill Operator jobs?

For Vertical Drill Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Vertical Drill Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,917 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Vertical Drill Rig Operator

China Grove, NC • On-site

Appalachian Drilling Company LLC
See more jobs at Appalachian Drilling Company LLCexternal

$35 - $45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Appalachian Drilling Company is seeking a highly skilled and safety-focused Drill Rig Operator to join our deep foundations team. In this role, you will be responsible for operating heavy rotary drilling rigs to excavate large diameter drilled shafts (caissons) for commercial, industrial, and infrastructure projects.


Key Responsibilities

  • Rig Operation: Safely and efficiently operate large rotary drilling rigs to excavate large-diameter drilled shafts according to engineering blueprints and project specifications. From 2' to 10' diameters
  • Casing & Slurry: Manage the installation and extraction of temporary or permanent steel casings. Work effectively with wet-hole construction methods, including polymer slurry systems, when required.
  • Equipment Maintenance: Perform daily pre-shift and post-shift equipment inspections. Conduct routine preventative maintenance, grease moving parts, and promptly report any mechanical issues to the maintenance team.
  • Concrete Placement: Coordinate and assist with concrete pouring operations, including the setup of tremie pipes & pump lines.
  • Rebar & Anchor Bolt Setting: Assist in rigging and lowering heavy rebar cages. Accurately set, align, and secure anchor bolts and anchor templates to exact engineering tolerances prior to and during the concrete pour.

Qualifications & Skills

  • Experience: Minimum of [3–5] years of proven experience operating large foundation drilling rigs specifically for drilled shafts/caissons.
  • Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of drilling techniques through various subsurface conditions (soil, cobble, hard rock, ground water).
  • Certifications: Current OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification preferred. NCCCO Drill Rig Operator certification is a major plus.
  • Driver’s License: Valid driver’s license required. A Class A CDL is highly preferred for moving equipment and materials.
  • Problem-Solving: Ability to read project plans, adapt to changing soil conditions, and troubleshoot minor equipment issues on the fly.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

  • Ability to work safely outdoors in all weather conditions (extreme heat, cold, rain, etc.).
  • Physical stamina to climb on and off heavy machinery, lift up to [50 lbs], and stand or sit for extended periods.
  • Willingness to work long hours, overtime, and occasional weekends as project schedules demand.
  • Willingness to travel to various job sites within the Southeastern US

What We Offer

  • Competitive hourly wage
  • Daily Per Diem
  • Comprehensive benefits package (Health, Dental, Vision).
  • Paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays.
  • Opportunities for ongoing training and career advancement.