Core Driller

Mariana Minerals•Moab, UT

8d•Onsite

About The Position

The Core Driller operates diamond core drill rigs at an open-pit copper mine, focusing on mineral exploration and resource definition. This role emphasizes safe and accurate drilling for planning, high-quality core recovery, equipment maintenance, and adherence to health, safety, and environmental standards. While diamond core experience is preferred, strong drillers from reverse circulation (RC), air rotary, or blast hole backgrounds are also welcome. A candidate who can lead and train a Driller Assistant is highly desired. The company is a software-first, vertically integrated minerals company aiming to supply critical minerals for modern energy, AI, and defense technologies by revolutionizing the minerals supply chain with advanced software, automation, and data-driven decision-making.

Requirements

2+ years of drilling experience, ideally as a diamond core driller
Strong mechanical aptitude and a solid understanding of drilling techniques and equipment
Real commitment to safety
Valid driver's license

Nice To Haves

Diamond core experience
Strong drillers from reverse circulation (RC), air rotary or blast hole backgrounds
Experience training or leading drill helpers is a strong plus
CDL is a plus

Responsibilities

Safely operate a diamond core drill rig in line with site procedures, manufacturer specs and MSHA requirements
Collar holes accurately and hold the right angles, depths and alignment per the drill plan
Do thorough pre-start inspections, routine servicing and basic troubleshooting to keep downtime low
Monitor and adjust drilling parameters such as fluid pressure, rotation speed, weight on bit and penetration rate
Make sure core is recovered, measured, labeled and boxed correctly, with good contamination control
Keep accurate drill logs, footage drilled and daily production reports
Recognize changes in ground conditions and flag them to the geologist and supervisors
Lead and mentor the Driller Assistant and keep the crew working safely
Keep the drill pad and equipment area clean and organized
Handle equipment breakdowns and emergencies with a calm, safety-first approach