Drill Rig Operator – Mining Production

About the role

The Drill Rig Operator will work under the Drill Supervisor to safely and efficiently operate a production drill rig for blasting activities in an open‑pit mining environment. The role ensures drilled blast holes meet technical specifications and support continuous mining production while adhering to the highest safety, health, and environmental standards.

Key responsibilities

• Perform blast‑hole drilling according to approved drilling plans and parameters (depth, angle, diameter, spacing).
• Position the drill rig accurately using field markings and operational instructions.
• Conduct pre‑start and pre‑operational inspections, checking fuel, oil, lubrication, and hydraulic levels.
• Verify the quality and compliance of drilled holes before handover to the blasting team.
• Report any equipment defects, breakdowns, or unsafe conditions immediately.
• Maintain the drill rig in a clean, operational condition and complete daily reports, checklists, and operational records.
• Follow all Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) procedures and wear required PPE.

Required profile

• Professional Studies Certificate (A5, A4) or equivalent qualification.
• Valid national driver’s licence.
• 1–2 years of experience in production drilling within a mining environment.
• Experience operating Epiroc D65 drill rigs or similar equipment.
• Experience in open‑pit mining operations.

Required skills

• Epiroc D65 (or similar) drill rig operation
• Heavy mobile equipment operation
• Pre‑operational equipment inspection
• Interpretation of drilling plans
• Compliance with mining safety standards