What are the responsibilities and job description for the Entry Level Driller Helper position at Evolve Exploration?
Entry-Level Driller Helper
Department: Operations
Reports To: Driller / Lead Driller / Field Supervisor
Employment Status: Full-Time
Position Summary
The Entry-Level Driller Helper provides hands-on assistance to the Driller in safely operating and maintaining drilling equipment during mineral exploration projects. This position is ideal for individuals looking to start a career in the drilling or mining industry. The Driller Helper is responsible for maintaining a safe work environment, performing manual labor, assisting with equipment setup and breakdown, handling drill rods and tools, and ensuring the drill site remains clean and organized.
This position requires working outdoors in various weather conditions, long shifts, and rotational schedules at remote job sites.
Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesDrilling Support
- Assist the Driller with all daily drilling operations.
- Load, unload, and handle drill rods, casing, tooling, and drilling supplies.
- Add and remove drill rods during drilling operations.
- Mix drilling fluids and additives as directed.
- Help maintain proper drilling fluid levels.
- Assist with moving and positioning drilling equipment.
- Help set up and dismantle drill rigs and support equipment.
- Maintain drilling supplies and inventory.
Equipment Maintenance
- Clean drilling equipment daily.
- Grease equipment according to maintenance schedules.
- Assist with preventative maintenance.
- Report equipment damage or mechanical issues immediately.
- Wash drill rigs and support vehicles when necessary.
- Keep tools clean and properly stored.
Site Maintenance
- Maintain a clean and organized drill site.
- Pick up trash and debris throughout the shift.
- Assist with spill prevention and cleanup.
- Properly dispose of waste materials.
- Ensure walkways remain free of trip hazards.
Safety Responsibilities
- Follow all company safety policies and procedures.
- Wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times.
- Participate in daily safety meetings and Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs).
- Report unsafe conditions immediately.
- Stop work if an unsafe condition exists.
- Assist in emergency response activities if required.
- Maintain compliance with all MSHA, OSHA, client, and company safety standards.
Physical Labor
- Lift, carry, push, and pull heavy materials.
- Move supplies throughout the drill site.
- Assist with loading and unloading trucks.
- Perform manual labor as directed.
- Work in mud, snow, rain, heat, dust, and uneven terrain.
Minimum Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED preferred.
- No prior drilling experience required.
- Mechanical aptitude preferred.
- Mining, construction, oilfield, ranching, or heavy labor experience is beneficial but not required.
- Valid driver's license preferred.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check (if applicable).
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Strong work ethic.
- Willingness to learn.
- Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
- Basic mechanical ability.
- Good communication skills.
- Dependable attendance.
- Ability to adapt to changing work conditions.
- Strong attention to safety.
Physical Requirements
The employee must frequently:
- Lift up to 75 pounds independently and heavier items with assistance.
- Stand for extended periods.
- Walk on uneven terrain.
- Bend, kneel, squat, crawl, and climb.
- Reach overhead.
- Grip and handle heavy drill rods repeatedly.
- Work 10–12 hour shifts.
- Perform repetitive manual tasks.
Working Conditions
- Outdoor work in all weather conditions.
- Remote drilling locations.
- Exposure to loud noise, dust, mud, grease, fuel, and drilling fluids.
- Rotational work schedule (such as 20 days on / 10 days off, depending on project requirements).
- Frequent travel and overnight stays.
- Long work hours, including weekends and holidays when necessary.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Employees are required to wear:
- Hard hat
- Safety glasses
- Steel-toe boots
- High-visibility clothing
- Cut-resistant gloves
- Hearing protection
- Additional PPE as required by the job site
Performance Expectations
Successful Driller Helpers will:
- Arrive on time and prepared for work.
- Demonstrate a positive attitude and willingness to learn.
- Follow all safety procedures without exception.
- Maintain equipment and work areas in clean condition.
- Take initiative without compromising safety.
- Work efficiently with minimal supervision after training.
- Respect coworkers, clients, and property.
- Maintain attendance and reliability.
Pay: From $24.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- On-the-job training
- Opportunities for advancement
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
Work Location: In person
Salary : $24