Performance Driller and Trainer

Sandvik AB; Florida; On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Sandvik is seeking a Performance Driller to advance drilling efficiency and safety across global mine sites, including our Alachua facility. You will train operators, optimize drilling performance, and serve as a trusted technical partner in field and shop settings.

The role requires 10+ years in blasthole drilling, 5+ years in training, strong program design knowledge, and willingness to travel extensively.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of production blasthole drilling experience with rotary and DTH applications.
• 5+ years of delivering drill operator training in surface mining environments.
• Strong knowledge of drill patterns, program design, and optimization.
• Ability to travel extensively, domestically and internationally.

Responsibilities

• Train operators and mine supervisors on Sandvik rotary drills in open-pit mines worldwide and at the Alachua facility.
• Demonstrate drills during trials and support start-ups and performance optimization.
• Analyze drilling performance metrics and benchmark against industry best practices.
• Conduct training needs assessments and operator audits to identify skill gaps.
• Design and deliver on-site and classroom training programs.
• Provide coaching to improve operator competence and confidence.
• Adapt drilling approaches to varying ground conditions to maximize penetration and reduce tool wear.
• Make data-driven recommendations to improve safety and productivity across drilling and blasting.
• Champion safe work practices and Sandvik’s Zero Harm vision; report hazards and improvement opportunities.

Skills

Production blasthole drilling

Rotary and DTH drilling

Drill operator training

Safety coaching

Performance optimization

Data analysis

Field coaching

Communication

Travel readiness

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Rotary drills

DTH hammers

Intelligent or autonomous drill rigs

Job description

Location: Alachua, FL or another Sandvik Mining office location

Drive real performance improvements in surface mining—globally.

As a Performance Driller, you’ll bring deep operational expertise directly to mine sites around the world. This is a hands‑on, customer‑facing role for an experienced surface mine driller who takes pride in safety, efficiency, and developing others. You’ll train operators, optimize drilling performance, and serve as a trusted technical partner—both in the field and at our Alachua manufacturing facility.

What You’ll Do

Deliver performance where it matters most

Train drill operators and mine supervisors on Sandvik rotary drills in open‑pit surface mines worldwide and at our Alachua facility.

Demonstrate drills during trials and support customers through start‑ups and performance optimization initiatives.

Analyze drilling performance metrics (quality, time, cost) and benchmark results against industry best practices.

Coach, assess, and elevate capability

Conduct training needs assessments and operator audits to identify skill gaps.

Design and deliver customized on‑site and classroom training programs.

Provide constructive, actionable coaching and feedback to improve operator competence and confidence.

Optimize safety, efficiency, and cost

Adapt drilling approaches to varying ground conditions to maximize penetration rates and minimize tool wear and cost per foot.

Optimize drill settings and rock tools for peak performance.

Make data‑driven recommendations to improve safety and productivity across drilling and blasting operations.

Lead by example in safety

Champion safe work practices and Sandvik’s EHS vision of Zero Harm in every environment.

Identify and report hazards, unsafe behaviors, and improvement opportunities.

Follow all IMS, regulatory, and site‑specific safety requirements.

What You Bring

Experience & technical expertise

10+ years of production blasthole drilling experience with rotary and DTH applications (top hammer a plus).

5+ years of delivering drill operator training in surface mining environments.

Strong knowledge of drill patterns, drilling program design, and performance optimization.

Working knowledge of rotary tri‑cone bits and pneumatic DTH hammers (rebuild experience a plus).

Experience with intelligent or autonomous drill rigs is an advantage.

Clear, confident communicator with the ability to coach, influence, and build trust with operators and customers.

Self‑directed and adaptable, comfortable working independently in dynamic field environments.

Ability and willingness to travel extensively, both domestically and internationally, in support of global mining operations.

Education

High school diploma or GED required.

Must have the legal right to work in the United States on an indefinite basis without employer sponsorship.
(Please note: temporary work authorizations, including OPT, do not meet this requirement.)

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

This role spans manufacturing, office, and active mine environments and requires regular standing, walking, climbing, and lifting (50+ lbs), wearing PPE, and working around loud equipment. International travel is a core part of the job.

About Sandvik

Sandvik is a global leader in mining and rock solutions, known for combining advanced technology with deep operational expertise. We work closely with customers worldwide to improve safety, productivity, and long‑term performance.

Sandvik is an equal opportunity employer and provides reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application and employment process.