Mining Drill Lead — Safety‑Focused Operator

GOLDEN QUEEN MINING COMPANY LLC; Mojave (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401K with Company Matching

Health Insurance

9 Paid Holidays

Vacation Accruals

Job summary

Golden Queen Mining Co., LLC is seeking a Drill Operator to join our surface mining team near Mojave, CA. The role focuses on safe operation, maintenance of heavy drilling equipment, and mentoring junior drillers.

You will perform pre-shift safety inspections, operate drill rigs (Epiroc DM-45) and support fleet—ensuring compliance with MSHA standards, site plans, and blasting coordination. Outdoor work in variable conditions, strong communication required.

Qualifications

• Experience in surface drilling operations preferred.
• Leadership or mentoring experience preferred.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Valid driver’s license required.

Responsibilities

• Complete all required MSHA and site safety training.
• Perform pre-shift and pre-operation safety inspections.
• Operate drilling and mining equipment safely and efficiently (e.g., drill rigs, haul trucks, loaders).
• Lead, mentor, and train lower-level drillers.
• Supervise drill department activities and ensure compliance with mine regulations.
• Maintain equipment maintenance and operations records.

Skills

Surface drilling

Leadership

Communication skills

Valid driver’s license

Mentoring

Safety focus

Tools

Wenco fleet management

Job description

Golden Queen Mining Co., LLC is seeking a Drill Operator to join our surface mining team near Mojave, CA. The role focuses on safe operation, maintenance of heavy drilling equipment, and mentoring junior drillers.

You will perform pre-shift safety inspections, operate drill rigs (Epiroc DM-45) and support fleet—ensuring compliance with MSHA standards, site plans, and blasting coordination. Outdoor work in variable conditions, strong communication required.