Rock Drill Equipment Operator

About the role

The Rock Drill Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating hydraulic drilling equipment on mining, quarry, construction, solar energy, and development projects throughout the United States. This position requires a strong commitment to safety, mechanical aptitude, and adaptability to changing project conditions.

Responsibilities

• Operates hydraulic drills on various terrains and job types including mines, quarries, and development sites
• Conducts daily maintenance for safe and efficient operation of assigned equipment
• Performs pre-operation inspections and workplace exams per company policy
• Understands and follows drill patterns/layouts provided by Project Managers
• Visually inspects and measures holes to ensure they meet required specifications
• Provides regular updates to Project Managers; reports any delays or challenges
• Utilizes the Strayos Fielder mobile app to execute and document drill patterns
• Participates in weekly Drilling Department Teams meetings
• Assists with blasting operations when needed
• Maintains a clean, organized, and safe work environment
• Performs any additional duties to support the overall drilling operations and team objectives

Requirements

• Previous rock drilling experience is strongly preferred. Equivalent experience operating heavy equipment in construction, mining, or a related industry will also be considered.
• OSHA 10-Hour Certification: Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) 10-Hour certification is strongly preferred. If not already obtained, the company will work with the employee to complete the certification prior to the start date.
• MSHA Training: Mine Safety Health Administration (MSHA) Experienced Miner Training certification is strongly preferred.
• Mechanical Aptitude: Ability to perform routine maintenance, inspections, and basic troubleshooting on drilling equipment.
• Driver License: Valid driver’s license with a driving record that includes no more than 3 moving violations and/or chargeable accidents in the last 3 years and no DUIIs.
• ATF clearance: Must pass a background check through the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in compliance with federal explosive handling regulations.
• Drug Test and Physical Screening: Pre-employment drug test and physical required. We conduct random drug tests and post-accident testing. ARI maintains a zero-tolerance drug policy, including marijuana.
• Travel commitment: Ability and willingness to travel extensively and work away from home for extended periods based on project assignments.
• Physical requirements: Physical stamina with the ability to lift 75 pounds and remain on feet for long hours.

Qualifications

• Situational Awareness: Maintains awareness of changing jobsite conditions and proactively identifies potential hazards and operational challenges.
• Communication: Effectively communicates with Project Managers, supervisors, and fellow crew members regarding production, safety, and project needs.
• Adaptability: Performs effectively in changing environments, schedules, weather conditions, and project requirements.
• Problem Solving: Uses sound judgment to identify issues and develop practical solutions in the field.
• Motivation: Results-driven and persistent in completing complex fieldwork.
• Safety awareness: Committed to safe work practices and adherence to company, OSHA, and MSHA requirements.

Skills

• Strong mechanical aptitude
• Ability to operate hydraulic drilling equipment safely and efficiently
• Effective communication skills
• Adaptable to changing project conditions
• Problem-solving abilities
• Results-driven and persistent work ethic
• Safety-first mindset

Benefits

• Generous and progressive pay scale. Pay for this position depends on experience.
• Typical annual earnings: $70,000-$100,000 per year.
• Benefits: Generous benefits package including per diem, comprehensive health insurance, 401(k) with company match, paid time off, holiday pay and more.

Pay

We offer a generous and progressive pay scale. Pay for this position depends on experience.

Schedule

Schedule is determined by the Drilling Manager and may vary based on project location and operational needs.

Benefits

• Per diem $40.00 per day when staying at a company paid hotel.
• Company Phone: We provide Operators with iPhones or a monthly cell phone allowance for phone calls, emails, text messaging and mobile time keeping.
• Fuel Card and Credit Card: We provide Operators with fuel cards and credit cards for company expenses.
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays
• Health Insurance: Eligible employees may participate in ARI's health insurance program, subject to plan terms and eligibility requirements
• Vision Insurance: Eligible employees may participate in ARI's vision insurance program, subject to plan terms and eligibility requirements.
• Dental Insurance: Eligible employees may participate in ARI's dental insurance program, subject to plan terms and eligibility requirements
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA): Employees are given the option to contribute a portion of their earnings, pre-tax, into a Flexible Spending Account (FSA). They can use the funds contributed to their account to pay for qualified medical or dependent care expenses that are not covered by insurance.
• Voluntary Insurance: We offer a voluntary insurance program for Critical Illness, Accident Protection, Short-Term Disability and Life Insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): With this benefit program, employees and members of their household can receive free, confidential counseling services to help work through both personal and professional issues.
• 401k: We match 100% of the first 3% of your salary that you contribute, and 50% of the amount that exceeds 3%, up to 5% of your annual earnings. In addition, ARI may make a profit-sharing contribution to your account at the end of the plan year.

Company

Aggregate Resource Industries, Inc. (ARI) is a leading mining and construction services contractor headquartered in Springfield, Oregon. We specialize in providing comprehensive solutions for the mining and construction industries, including rock drilling, blasting, and crushing operations throughout the United States. Our commitment to safety, innovation, and quality has established ARI as a trusted partner for mining and construction projects nationwide.