Underground Operations - Underground 3

Major Drilling America•Reno, NV

About The Position

The Underground Driller operates and maintains underground and surface drilling rigs to meet production targets safely and efficiently. The role requires technical drilling skills, adherence to site safety procedures, teamwork, and the ability to work in challenging, remote, and underground environments with minimal supervision. The driller operates hydraulic, rotary, in-the-hole (ITH), top hammer, and diamond drills; follows drill plans and site layouts; adjusts drilling parameters to suit rock conditions; and checks hole quality. The position also involves equipment inspections, routine maintenance, minor repairs, drill surveying support, documentation, inventory and rig audits, and coordination with mechanics, Driller Helpers, production teams, contractors, and other stakeholders. The employee must follow site-specific safety requirements, use required PPE, participate in inductions and emergency drills, assess and report hazards, and maintain an orderly worksite. The position requires physical work in variable field conditions and travel to different mine sites. The stated schedule may involve 12-hour days, seven days a week, for 20 days at a time, followed by 10 days at home.

Requirements

Hold and maintain a valid MSHA 5000-23 UG/Surface Certification.
Have 2–5 years of experience in drilling or mining, such as experience as a Driller Helper.
Have strong mechanical aptitude and the ability to read and follow drill plans, maps, and manuals.
Be able to visualize 3D layouts and understand drilling alignment.
Know the locations and proper use of SDS/MSDS, spill kits, and labeling procedures.
Understand light signals, radio communications, and emergency shutdowns.
Understand and comply with site-specific emergency protocols, including gas monitors, self-rescuers, refuge chambers, emergency escape routes, and the Mine Site Emergency Plan.
Be proficient in safe equipment operation and hazard assessment.
Have excellent communication and team coordination skills.
Be adaptable, dependable, committed to continuous improvement, and willing to embrace new techniques and technologies.
Have a current valid driver's license, without any DUI convictions, reckless driving citations, or more than three moving violations in the last three years.
Be physically fit, able to lift up to 25 kg (55 lbs), and able to perform labor-intensive work and lift heavy equipment in harsh conditions.
Be willing and able to travel to various mine sites and work in remote or underground locations.
Be able to work flexible shifts and adapt to varying field conditions.
Be willing to work 12-hour days, seven days a week, for 20 days at a time, followed by 10 days at home, and to be away from family and friends during work periods.
Have dependable transportation to and from job sites and airports.
Pass a pre-employment medical and drug screening.
Pass a criminal background check.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in drilling operations or mining environments.
Familiarity with safety protocols and mechanical or equipment knowledge.

Responsibilities

Conduct oneself professionally and represent the company with integrity.
Be fit for duty, punctual, and ready for all shifts.
Operate and maintain hydraulic, rotary, in-the-hole (ITH), top hammer, and diamond drilling equipment.
Drill holes to specified depths and diameters according to drill plans and site layouts.
Conduct pre-operational checks, routine maintenance, and minor repairs on drill rigs and auxiliary equipment.
Regulate drilling pressure, rotary speed, and airflow based on rock conditions.
Use orientation and survey tools and assist with drill surveying.
Perform pre-shift inspections using Intelex, conduct preventive maintenance, and complete permits and assessments.
Participate in site inductions, safety shares, and emergency drills.
Erect barricades, bunting, and signage to secure work areas.
Wear and maintain proper PPE and follow the 10 Life Saving Rules and Stop Work Authority requirements.
Perform Take 5 assessments before tasks; follow Brassing In/Out and LOTOTO procedures; and report hazards.
Maintain a clean and organized worksite in accordance with housekeeping standards.
Meet or exceed daily drilling production targets while minimizing downtime and equipment wear.
Monitor drilling progress and adjust operations to optimize performance.
Check the quality of drilled holes by dipping and re-drilling as necessary.
Organize daily consumables and supplies and assist with inventory and rig audits.
Maintain accurate drill logs, daily reports, and data entry, including in the BOX app.
Collaborate with mechanics, Driller Helpers, and production teams, and assist other crew members as required, including off-side fitter duties.
Support operational improvements and project execution within scope, time, and budget.
Participate in supply assessment, costing, and reviews as needed.
Communicate with team members, contractors, and stakeholders to support coordinated operations.
Perform other duties as necessary.