Driller Trainee

Vulcan Materials Company; Knoxville (TN); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Vulcan Materials Company is seeking a drilling operator to safely operate portable rotary drilling equipment and prepare for blasting operations. You will document drilling activities, coordinate with geologists and engineers, and perform routine maintenance to ensure reliability.

The role requires understanding of drilling equipment, ground conditions, and safety protocols, with a commitment to safe operations and accurate reporting.

Qualifications

• HS Diploma or GED required or equivalent.
• 3+ years drilling experience in construction, mining, or environmental projects preferred.
• Valid driver’s license with clean driving record; CDL preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate the portable rotary drill.
• Adjust drilling techniques based on soil or rock conditions.
• Assist with the drilling pattern layout.
• Collect and describe stone, sand, and gravel samples.
• Perform pre-shift and post-shift inspections and maintenance of drill bits and lubrication systems.
• Enter and maintain drill logs and drilling reports; ensure accuracy.
• Coordinate drilling activities with geologists, engineers and plant management.
• Communicate effectively with team members and onsite personnel.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Drilling Equipment

Safety Protocols

Team Coordination

Documentation

Education

HS Diploma or GED

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION

This position is responsible for the safe operation of drilling equipment to prepare for blasting operations and to extract core samples from the earth's subsurface. This role requires a thorough understanding of drilling equipment, ground conditions, and safety protocols. The operator will be responsible for maintaining and troubleshooting the equipment, following instructions from supervisors and geologists, and accurately documenting drilling activities. This position involves operating drilling equipment with a strong focus on safety.

Job Summary

This position is responsible for the safe operation of drilling equipment to prepare for blasting operations and to extract core samples from the earth's subsurface. This role requires a thorough understanding of drilling equipment, ground conditions, and safety protocols. The operator will be responsible for maintaining and troubleshooting the equipment, following instructions from supervisors and geologists, and accurately documenting drilling activities. This position involves operating drilling equipment with a strong focus on safety.

JOB DESCRIPTION

This position is responsible for the safe operation of drilling equipment to prepare for blasting operations and to extract core samples from the earth's subsurface. This role requires a thorough understanding of drilling equipment, ground conditions, and safety protocols. The operator will be responsible for maintaining and troubleshooting the equipment, following instructions from supervisors and geologists, and accurately documenting drilling activities. This position involves operating drilling equipment with a strong focus on safety.

Essential Functions

• Operate the portable rotary drill.
• Adjust drilling techniques based on soil or rock conditions encountered during drilling.
• Assist with the drilling pattern layout.
• Collect and describe stone, sand, and gravel samples.
• Perform pre-shift and post-shift inspections and maintenance of drill bits, drill steel, lubricant systems, and fluid levels.
• Perform minor services, repairs, and adjustments, such as replacing gaskets, filters, and hoses in order to improve drill performance.
• Report any maintenance needs or equipment issues to the maintenance department.
• Enter and maintain information regarding drill logs, drilling reports, and other relevant operational information.
• Work closely with geologists, engineers, plant management and other team members to coordinate drilling activities and achieve objectives.
• Communicate effectively with team members and onsite personnel.
• Other duties as assigned.

Critical Competencies

• Technical Proficiency-Knowledge and skills in a specific field, gained through education, training, experience, and continuous learning. It combines theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and problem-solving ability. Technical proficiency is valuable to employers for innovation, efficiency, and problem-solving.
• Problem Solving- identify, analyze, and resolve work-related issues efficiently and effectively using practical knowledge, experience, and hands‑on skills. This involves identifying the problem, diagnosing the cause, finding practical solutions, implementing fixes, and adapting to unexpected challenges.
• Attention to Detail- Ability to thoroughly and accurately complete tasks, ensuring that no aspects or elements are overlooked; meticulous and precise when handling information, performing tasks, or delivering work, and is critical in ensuring the quality, accuracy, and integrity of the results.
• Communication: Ability to clearly and effectively convey information, ideas, and messages to others in both written and verbal formats; can express one's thoughts clearly but also demonstrate active listening, understands the needs of the audience, and adapts the message to ensure it is understood.

Education

• HS Diploma or equivalent GED preferred.

Experience

• 3 (three) years experience as a driller in construction, mining, or environmental projects is preferred.
• Must have a valid driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record.
• A commercial driver’s license or the ability to obtain one is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Proficient in operating and maintaining drilling equipment.
• Knowledge of different drilling techniques and methodologies.
• Strong attention to safety protocols, practices and operation techniques
• Knowledge of and adherence to environmental regulations related to drilling operations.
• Basic mechanical aptitude to complete a thorough safety and mechanical inspection
• Clear communication skills to collaborate with team members and convey important information.
• Ability to adapt to changing project requirements and work in diverse geological conditions.
• Efficient planning and organization of drilling activities to meet project timelines.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively.
• Identify and address issues and challenges encountered during drilling operations and report and concerns or abnormalities promptly.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team, coordinating drilling activities with other team members.
• Gathering and recording geological data, core sample information, and other relevant data during drilling operations.

Other Requirements

• Adhere to safety best practices, protocols and guidelines to prevent accidents and ensure a safe working environment.
• Utilize personal protective equipment (PPE) and enforce safety measures among the drilling team.
• Maintain awareness of surroundings, equipment, and personnel to prevent accidents or hazards.
• Report any safety concerns, incidents, or equipment malfunctions to the supervisor promptly.
• Take an active role in prioritizing safety throughout the operation at all times and in accordance with MSHA regulations and Vulcan standards.
• Follow environmental regulations related to drilling operations and implement measures to minimize environmental impact.
• Must be willing to work overtime and travel to different operations depending on company demands.
• Must be able to work outside in all types of weather conditions and tolerate being exposed to loud noises.
• Physical ability to operate heavy machinery for extended periods

JD Disclaimer

Vulcan Materials Company is an equal opportunity employer.