Drill Operator

About the role

The Drill Operator works under the direct supervision of the Drill Supervisor to safely and efficiently operate rotary and DTH drill rigs in an open‑pit copper and cobalt mining environment. The role is critical for delivering accurate drill holes that support blasting and overall mine productivity.

Key responsibilities

• Perform full pre‑operational safety inspections of drill rigs and participate in toolbox talks.
• Operate Epiroc D65, PV231 or PV271 rotary/DTH rigs according to approved drill plans and mining sequences.
• Accurately position the rig on collar coordinates and maintain required angles and alignments.
• Drill holes to specified depth, diameter and deviation tolerances, delivering clean and stable holes.
• Monitor and adjust penetration rate, weight on bit, RPM and air pressure to optimise performance.
• Report unsafe conditions or geotechnical risks immediately.
• Maintain equipment condition through preventive maintenance and consumable optimisation.
• Minimise downtime and ensure compliance with HSE procedures.

Required profile

• Experience operating rotary and DTH drill rigs in an open‑pit mining setting.
• Ability to read and interpret drill plans, maps and technical specifications.
• Strong commitment to safety and HSE standards.
• Physical fitness to work outdoors in demanding conditions.

Required skills

• Epiroc D65 drill rig operation
• Epiroc PV231 drill rig operation
• Epiroc PV271 drill rig operation
• Rotary drilling techniques
• DTH drilling techniques
• Drill plan interpretation
• Equipment preventive maintenance
• Monitoring of penetration rate, weight on bit, RPM and air pressure