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U.S. Dept. of Labor code 47-5023.00Market Standard — pending BLS/OEWS enrichment

Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Gas

Operate a variety of drills such as rotary, churn, and pneumatic to tap subsurface water and salt deposits, to remove core samples during mineral exploration or soil testing, and to facilitate the use of explosives in mining or construction. Includes horizontal and earth boring machine operators.

What this job is about

Ensure efficient and safe drilling operations for various projects.

What this work involves, step by step

AI can help most with the planning, drafting, and paperwork below — not the hands-on parts.

  1. 1

    Prepare drilling equipment

    Assemble and position machines, augers, and casing pipes using hand and power tools.

  2. 2

    Operate drilling controls

    Start, stop, and control drilling speed while stabilizing machines and aligning drills.

  3. 3

    Monitor drilling conditions

    Check gauges and listen to equipment to assess drilling conditions and make necessary adjustments.

  4. 4

    Document geological data

    Record drilling progress and geological formations encountered during work.

  5. 5

    Perform maintenance on equipment

    Conduct routine maintenance such as replacing parts and lubricating machinery to ensure optimal performance.

Tools used in this work
Microsoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft Word

Free — no credit card required. 200 messages included.