Junior Rock Drill Operator

3riversdrillingandblasting; Utah; On-site; USD 54,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

Overtime pay

Job summary

3-Rivers Drilling & Blasting is seeking a Junior Rock Drill Operator based in Central Utah or Southern Nevada/Southern Utah, with travel to project sites in Utah and Nevada. You will support mining and civil drilling operations and grow toward a senior drilling role as you gain hands-on experience with field equipment.

The role involves day and night shifts, extended hours, and overtime as project needs dictate.

Qualifications

• 1-3+ years drilling experience preferred; related heavy equipment experience will be considered
• Willingness to learn, follow direction, and develop into a higher-level drilling role
• Must have valid driver's license and reliable transportation to job sites

Responsibilities

• Operate rock drills safely and efficiently under guidance of experienced drill operators
• Assist with drill setup, tooling changes, greasing, and daily equipment preparation
• Monitor ground conditions and communicate changes to the crew
• Complete daily equipment inspections and assist with maintenance tasks
• Follow MSHA requirements, safety procedures, and site standards
• Maintain production records as required
• Support drilling operations while working toward production goals

Skills

Drilling operations

Safety mindset

Teamwork

Tools

Sandvik Di650 Leopard DTH rigs

Sandvik DP1500i Top Hammer rigs

Job description

3-Rivers Drilling & Blasting

Junior Rock Drill Operator

Location: Based in Central Utah (Delta area, Saratoga Springs) or Southern Nevada/Southern Utah. Travel to project sites throughout Utah and Nevada is required.

Build Your Drilling Skills. Operate with Precision. Work Safely.

3-Rivers Drilling & Blasting has been serving the Western U.S. since 1997 with a strong reputation for safe, accurate, and professional drilling and blasting operations. We are fully licensed, insured, and bonded and take pride in delivering quality results on every project.

We are seeking a Rock Drill Operator to support mining and civil drilling operations while developing advanced drilling skills. This position is ideal for someone with previous drilling, heavy equipment, or related field experience who is motivated to grow into a senior-level driller role. Work may include day and night shifts, extended hours, and overtime depending on project requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate rock drills safely and efficiently under the guidance of experienced drill operators
• Assist with drill setup, tooling changes, greasing, and daily equipment preparation
• Monitor ground conditions and communicate changes or concerns to the crew
• Complete daily equipment inspections and assist with basic maintenance tasks
• Follow MSHA requirements, company safety procedures, and job-site standards
• Maintain accurate documentation and production records as required
• Support drilling operations while working toward production goals

Qualifications

• 1-3+ years of drilling experience preferred; related heavy equipment experience will be considered
• Experience with Sandvik Di650 Leopard DTH rigs or similar equipment is a plus
• Experience with Sandvik DP1500i Top Hammer rigs or similar equipment is a plus
• Willingness to learn, follow direction, and develop into a higher-level drilling role
• Ability to work toward production targets while maintaining safe operating practices
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record
• Reliable transportation to and from job sites
• MSHA 5000-23 Experienced Miner certification preferred
• Strong commitment to safety and teamwork
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work outdoors in remote and changing conditions, with or without reasonable accommodation

Pay & Benefits

• Full-time W-2 employment
• Pay: $26.00 - $30.00 per hour, based on experience and qualifications
• Health insurance available with employee participation
• Paid time off after 1 year (40 hours)
• Overtime paid according to state and federal law
• Typical schedule: 8-12 hour shifts, Monday through Friday
• Night shifts, weekend work, and overtime may be required based on project needs

Work Environment

• Field-based position supporting mining and civil drilling projects
• Travel required throughout Utah and Nevada
• Outdoor work environment involving rugged terrain and remote job sites
• Opportunity to gain hands-on experience with production drilling equipment

Why Join 3-Rivers Drilling & Blasting?

At 3-Rivers, safety, teamwork, and quality workmanship are at the center of everything we do. We are building a professional operation where employees can develop their skills, take pride in their work, and contribute to successful projects. With a variety of job sites and equipment, this role offers the opportunity to grow as a driller while working alongside an experienced team.

If you are dependable, safety-focused, and interested in building a career in drilling operations, we would like to hear from you.

3-Rivers Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds.