Operate a variety of drills such as rotary, churn, and pneumatic to tap subsurface water and salt deposits, to remove core samples during mineral exploration or soil testing, and to facilitate the use of explosives in mining or construction. Includes horizontal and earth boring machine operators.
SOC: 47-5023.00
Common Job Titles
Blast Hole Driller
Drill Operator
Driller
Well Driller
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate rotary, churn, and pneumatic drilling equipment in field environments for subsurface water extraction, mineral exploration, and construction applications.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform preventive maintenance and repairs on mechanical drilling equipment using hand tools and specialized equipment to ensure operational readiness.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate drilling equipment performance and operational parameters through continuous monitoring of machine indicators and environmental conditions.
Proficient
Hands-onManipulate drill pipe tongs, drilling collars, and downhole tools during core sampling and bore hole preparation operations.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess subsurface geological conditions and core sample quality to determine drilling technique adjustments and equipment selection.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze equipment malfunctions and operational problems to diagnose root causes and implement corrective actions under time constraints.
Developing
KnowledgeApply safety protocols and regulatory compliance standards in mining and construction environments to protect personnel and equipment.
Developing
Hands-onCalibrate mud pumping equipment and drilling fluid parameters using mud balances and marsh funnels to optimize drilling performance.
Developing
MindsetParticipate in crew coordination and worksite communication with supervisors, operators, and support personnel to ensure efficient drilling operations.
Developing
Hands-onExecute horizontal and earth boring machine operations following technical specifications and project plans in varied terrain.
Developing
KnowledgeEstimate drilling depth, time requirements, and material consumption using mathematical calculations and field measurements for project planning.
Developing
MindsetSupport junior crew members through on-site instruction and demonstration in drilling techniques, equipment operation, and safety procedures.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Gas (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
17,410
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $44,450. 25th percentile: U.S. $49,720. 50th percentile: U.S. $59,600. 75th percentile: U.S. $73,530. 90th percentile: U.S. $87,760. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$44,450
10% of workers earn the following or more
$87,760
Workers on average earn
$63,260
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Mechanical3.5/5
Administration and Management3.3/5
Transportation3.3/5
Public Safety and Security3.3/5
Design3.1/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
