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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Rotary Drill Operator

💰 $58,000 - $93,000

ConstructionMiningSkilled TradesHeavy Equipment Operation

🎯 Role Definition

This role requires a skilled and safety-conscious Rotary Drill Operator to join our dynamic team. In this critical role, you will be responsible for the precise and efficient operation of large-diameter rotary drill rigs on our project sites. The ideal candidate has a deep understanding of drilling techniques, a strong mechanical aptitude, and an unwavering commitment to safety protocols. You will be a key player in the initial stages of major construction, mining, or quarrying operations, ensuring that all drilling is performed according to engineering plans and project specifications. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced driller to contribute to high-profile projects in a challenging and rewarding environment.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Driller's Helper / Offsider
  • Heavy Equipment Operator
  • General Construction or Mine Laborer

Advancement To:

  • Lead Drill Operator / Senior Driller
  • Drilling Supervisor or Foreman
  • Site Superintendent

Lateral Moves:

  • Blaster / Explosives Technician
  • Heavy Equipment Mechanic
  • Geotechnical Field Technician

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Expertly operate and control large-scale rotary drill rigs (such as Sandvik, Epiroc, or Atlas Copco models) to bore blast holes, foundation shafts, or water wells to specified depths and diameters.
  • Perform comprehensive pre-shift and post-shift safety and maintenance inspections on the drill rig and associated equipment to ensure operational integrity.
  • Interpret and execute drilling patterns from geological maps, blueprints, and digital survey plans, utilizing GPS technology for precise hole placement and alignment.
  • Accurately position, level, and stabilize the drill rig on various terrains and grades, ensuring a safe and stable platform for all drilling activities.
  • Continuously monitor gauges, dials, and electronic indicators during the drilling process to maintain optimal performance and identify potential equipment or geological issues.
  • Manage the addition and removal of drill pipes, rods, and casings, ensuring secure connections and proper handling to prevent accidents or equipment damage.
  • Select, inspect, and replace drill bits and other down-hole tools based on rock formation, drilling conditions, and wear-and-tear to maximize efficiency and hole quality.
  • Maintain detailed and accurate daily drilling logs, including hole depths, penetration rates, geological strata encountered, and any operational delays or incidents.
  • Effectively troubleshoot mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical malfunctions in the drill rig, performing minor field repairs to minimize downtime.
  • Ensure the cleanliness and integrity of each drilled hole, verifying depth and clearing debris to prepare for blasting, piling, or other subsequent operations.
  • Communicate proactively and clearly with ground crew, blasters, geologists, and site supervisors regarding drilling progress, ground conditions, and safety concerns.
  • Adhere strictly to all company, client, and governmental safety regulations, including MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration) and OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standards.
  • Operate the drill's dust suppression systems (water or dry) effectively to minimize airborne particulates and maintain environmental compliance.
  • Assist in the mobilization and demobilization of the drill rig to and from project sites, including assembly and disassembly as required.
  • Identify and mitigate potential hazards in the work area, such as unstable ground, overhead power lines, and proximity to other moving equipment.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment in and around the drill rig and support vehicles.
  • Skillfully navigate the drill rig around the job site, demonstrating superior awareness of the machine's size, blind spots, and operational footprint.
  • Monitor and manage consumables such as fuel, oil, and grease, ensuring the rig is always ready for operation.
  • Provide guidance and mentorship to Driller's Helpers or trainees, sharing knowledge of safe and efficient operating procedures.
  • Participate in daily safety meetings (toolbox talks) and contribute to a proactive and positive safety culture on site.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist maintenance crews and mechanics with more complex repairs and scheduled preventative maintenance on drilling equipment.
  • Operate auxiliary equipment such as water trucks, skid steers, or loaders as needed to support drilling operations.
  • Collect and label geological samples as requested by engineers or geologists for analysis.
  • Contribute to the development and refinement of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for drilling activities.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Drill Rig Operation: Proven experience operating large rotary drill rigs (e.g., Atlas Copco Pit Viper, Sandvik DR series, Epiroc DML).
  • Mechanical Aptitude: Strong ability to diagnose and perform minor repairs on hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical systems.
  • Blueprint & Plan Reading: Proficiency in reading and interpreting geotechnical reports, survey stakes, and engineering drill plans.
  • GPS Systems: Competency in using on-board GPS for accurate hole navigation and placement.
  • Drilling Techniques: In-depth knowledge of different drilling methods, bit selection, and adjustments for various rock formations (soft rock, hard rock, fractured ground).
  • Safety Compliance: Verifiable knowledge of MSHA and/or OSHA regulations pertaining to surface mining and construction.
  • Equipment Maintenance: Ability to perform routine preventative maintenance, including lubrication, filter changes, and inspections.
  • Log Keeping: Meticulous record-keeping skills for completing daily drill reports and equipment logs.
  • Rig Mobilization: Experience with the setup, breakdown, and transport of large drilling equipment.
  • Downhole Tool Management: Expertise in handling, changing, and maintaining drill strings, bits, and hammers.

Soft Skills

  • Safety Consciousness: A constant and proactive awareness of potential hazards and a commitment to safe work practices.
  • Problem-Solving: The ability to think critically and quickly to resolve operational and mechanical challenges in the field.
  • Communication: Clear and effective verbal communication skills for coordinating with team members and supervisors.
  • Work Ethic: Self-motivated with the ability to work independently for long periods with minimal supervision.
  • Adaptability: Flexibility to work in various weather conditions, on different terrains, and on rotating shift schedules.
  • Physical Stamina: Ability to withstand the physical demands of the job, including climbing on equipment, lifting heavy items, and enduring vibration.
  • Situational Awareness: High level of awareness of the surrounding environment, including personnel and other equipment.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

  • Certificate from a vocational or technical school in Heavy Equipment Operation or Drilling Technology.
  • MSHA Surface Miner Certification (Part 46 or 48).

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Heavy Equipment Operation
  • Diesel Mechanics
  • Geology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 3-5+ years of documented experience as a Rotary Drill Operator in a mining, quarry, or heavy civil construction environment.

Preferred: Experience with GPS-guided and/or autonomous drilling systems is highly advantageous.

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