Underground Operations - Helper

Major Drilling America; United States; On-site; USD 45,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

Major Drilling America is seeking an Underground Driller Assistant to support underground and surface drilling operations while prioritizing safety and efficiency. You will perform pre-shift inspections, follow LOTOTO and emergency protocols, and help maintain equipment, samples, and documentation on site.

You will participate in inductions, safety meetings, and outreach to visitors, with a focus on safety compliance, operational readiness, and teamwork across rotating shifts and mine sites.

Qualifications

• Hold a current MSHA 5000-23 UG/Surface Certification required.
• Experience in drilling operations or mining environments preferred.
• Valid driver's license; clean record; no DUI or >3 moving violations in 3 years.

Responsibilities

• Support underground and surface drilling operations while ensuring safety.
• Perform pre-shift inspections on equipment.
• Follow LOTOTO, hazard reporting and safety procedures.
• Assist with site inductions and safety trainings.
• Maintain logs and use documentation tools on site.
• Assist with rig audits, inventory, and equipment maintenance.

Skills

Life Saving Rules

Gas Monitors

Emergency Plans

Site Communications

Standard Work

Education

MSHA 5000-23 UG/Surface Certification

Job description

US Underground Driller Assistant

Base pay range is $21.60 to $27.54. Total earning potential may increase due to non-discretionary incentives and performance-based bonuses.

Job Summary

The Underground Driller Assistant is responsible for supporting underground and surface drilling operations while ensuring safety compliance, equipment maintenance, sample integrity, and operational efficiency. The role requires adherence to MSHA regulations, company policies, and site-specific procedures.

Duties

• Conduct yourself professionally and represent MD with integrity.
• Be fit for duty and punctual for all shifts.
• Perform pre-shift inspections on UG mobile equipment and drill station tools using Intelex.
• Follow correct procedures for Brassing In/Out, Lock Out Tag Out Try Out (LOTOTO), and hazard reporting (incidents, near misses, safety hazards).
• Participate in and conduct site inductions and safety shares.
• Provide site inductions to visitors and ensure adherence to safety and operational standards.
• Perform Take 5 assessments before tasks and understand Stop Work Authority.
• Conduct PMs and pre-shift checks on drill equipment, mud tanks, mud mixers, pumps, and fire suppression systems.
• Rebuild and maintain latch heads, water swivels, and support equipment.
• Replace valve seats, gaskets, and conduct continuity tests.
• Assist with rig audits and tool inventory.
• Operate and maintain crew vehicles, forklifts, and other heavy equipment.
• Use orientation tools, survey tools, and assist in surveying operations.
• Assist in drill rig setup, movement, and station maintenance.
• Set up drill for AZI and DIP, maintain water swivels, and install splits.
• Mix and troubleshoot muds and grouts.
• Maintain a clean and organized worksite per site housekeeping standards.
• Perform rod tripping, install lifter cases, and maintain drilling cycle readiness.
• Assemble and disassemble downhole tooling, including core barrels, inner/outer tubes, and latch heads.
• Participate in manual material handling, hauling supplies, and fueling operations.
• Accurately label, load, and secure core boxes.
• Write core blocks and keep core areas clean and organized.
• Perform sample collection, ensure proper labeling, order, and secure storage.
• Build and manage chip trays.
• Use BOX app for documentation or reporting.
• Maintain hand and power tools in good condition.
• Wear and maintain appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Assist in the training of new Driller Assistants in a safe and professional manner.
• Complete other duties as assigned by the Driller or Field Supervisor.

Required Skills

• Understand and follow all 10 Life Saving Rules.
• Understand and use gas monitors, self-rescuers, refuge chambers, and emergency protocols.
• Know emergency escape routes and the Mine Site Emergency Plan.
• Comprehend mine site communications, light signals, and emergency shutdowns.
• Know locations of SDS/MSDS, spill kits, and trash labeling protocols.
• Understand and utilize Standard Work Procedures.
• Understand and read drill plans and maps.

Education and Experience

• Hold a current MSHA 5000-23 UG/Surface Certification.
• Prior experience in drilling operations or mining environments preferred.
• Familiarity with safety protocols and mechanical/equipment knowledge.
• Current valid driver's license (without any DUI's, reckless driving citations, or more than 3 moving violations in the last 3 years).

Physical Requirements

• Physically fit and capable of lifting up to 25 kg (55 lbs); able to work in harsh environments.
• 2-5 years' experience in drilling or mining (e.g., Driller Helper).
• Must pass a pre-employment medical and drug screening.
• Clean criminal background check.
• Willingness to travel and work at various mine sites if required.
• Must be able to work flexible shifts and adapt to varying field conditions.
• Able and willing to travel for this position and work 12-hour days, 7 days a week, for 20 days at a time (home 10) and willing to be away from family and friends
• Labor intensive work outdoors, with small crews, in various weather conditions and often remote work locations.
• Dependable transportation to get to and from different job sites (and airports).