Take on more complex work, mentoring and quality accountability while building evidence for the next formal step.
Compare roles and pay →Operations · Skilled
Drill operator
Runs an authorised production or exploration drill and records hole information for the site's mine plan.
Indicative 2026 annual cash$130k–$195kGross, generally before super
Common roster context7/7, 8/6 and 2/1 are possible; continuous operations may rotate days and nights.
Role at a glance
What this role actually does.
Runs an authorised production or exploration drill and records hole information for the site's mine plan. The precise scope changes with the employer, asset, jurisdiction and written authorities.
The work
Core duties
- 01
Set up and check the rig
- 02
Drill to approved plan within area controls
- 03
Record holes, ground conditions and faults
The assets
Equipment and systems
- 01
Blast-hole or exploration rig
- 02
Drill rods and compressors
- 03
Hole plans and records
Before mobilisation
Typical foundations
- 01
Employer verification for the drill and method
- 02
Mine-specific ground and exclusion training
- 03
Explosives authority is separate from drilling
Prove capability
Evidence employers can verify
- 01
Rig, method and hole types
- 02
Ground and fault decisions
- 03
Accurate hole records and handover
Entry pathway
A credible way into the role.
- 01
Enter as offsider or trainee on the relevant drill method
- 02
Build supervised operating hours
- 03
Gain rig-specific verification
Earning context
What tends to move pay
- 01
Experience and verified scope
- 02
Roster, location and shift pattern
- 03
Employer, contract and allowances
Before accepting
Questions to ask about the offer
- 01
Is this base salary, gross cash or a package including super?
- 02
Which roster, point of hire, ordinary hours and overtime terms apply?
- 03
What duties, equipment and written authorities are included in the offer?
Progression
Possible next moves.
Maintains production and exploration drill rigs where hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical and control-system reliability directly affects drilling output.
Related role band: $150k–$220kLead people, work controls and handovers across a wider scope; statutory appointment and licence duties must be checked separately.
Progression depends on demonstrated competence, vacancies, performance, qualifications and any appointment requirements. A related profile is a starting point, not a guarantee of that exact title or scope. Browse all 98 role profiles →
Keep exploring
Related role profiles.
Sources and role examples
Editorial note
Salary bands are broad 2026 Australian mining comparisons, not promised rates. Role requirements summarise common practice and do not replace legislation, regulator guidance, an employment agreement, site procedures or a written appointment. Pay presentation reviewed 27 September 2026.