Drill Operator

About the role

Under the supervision of the Drill Supervisor, the Drill Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of rotary and DTH drill rigs in an open‑pit copper and cobalt mine. The role ensures drilling is carried out according to approved plans, technical tolerances and HSE standards while meeting daily production targets.

Key responsibilities

• Perform full pre‑operational inspections and participate in safety briefings to guarantee a safe work environment.
• Operate Epiroc D65, PV231 or PV271 drill rigs following validated drill patterns and mining sequences.
• Accurately position the rig on collar coordinates using drill plans and survey maps.
• Drill holes to specified depth, angle and diameter, maintaining deviation tolerances and delivering clean holes for blasting.
• Monitor and adjust penetration rate, weight on bit, RPM and air pressure to optimise performance.
• Achieve daily drilled‑meter targets while minimising unplanned downtime and consumable usage.
• Complete daily equipment checklists, conduct preventive maintenance and report any technical abnormalities.
• Collaborate with maintenance and supervision teams to maximise equipment availability.

Required profile

• Experience operating rotary and DTH drill rigs in a mining environment.
• Ability to read and interpret drill plans, survey coordinates and technical specifications.
• Strong commitment to health, safety and environmental procedures.
• Proactive attitude towards equipment care and downtime reduction.

Required skills

• Operation of Epiroc D65 drill rig.
• Operation of Epiroc PV231 / PV271 drill rigs.
• Monitoring drilling parameters (WOB, RPM, air pressure).
• Preventive maintenance of drilling equipment.