What are the responsibilities and job description for the Surface Core Driller position at Nasco Industrial Services & Supply?
NISS – Surface Core Driller
Location: Western USA
Position Type: Full-time, rotational (e.g. 14 days on / 7 days off or 20 days on / 10 days off or similar)
Reporting To: Toolpusher / Site Supervisor
About NISS
At NISS, we specialize in high-quality surface and helicopter supported core drilling for the mining, exploration, and geotechnical sectors. Safety, professionalism, and efficiency are at the heart of everything we do. We invest in our people, providing training, career paths, and competitive compensation.
Position Overview
We are seeking experienced Surface Core Drillers to join our field crew. The successful candidates will help operate core drilling rigs, supervise drilling assistants, maintain equipment, and ensure safe and efficient operations.
Drilling operations run 24/7 in many projects — shifts include both day and night work. You must be ready to work in remote or rugged locations and maintain a strong safety mindset.
Key Responsibilities
- Operate and maintain core drilling rigs, downhole tooling, and associated support equipment
- Lead and supervise drill assistants, train and mentor new crew members
- Execute and document pre-shift inspections, toolbox talks, rig moves, and site set up
- Handle drill rods, casing, core barrels, sample handling, and drill rig consumables
- Monitor drilling parameters and make adjustments as needed to maintain production and safety
- Maintain accurate field logs, sample records, production data, and daily reports
- Perform equipment maintenance, basic repairs, and troubleshooting on the rig
- Ensure housekeeping, site cleanliness, and compliance with safety protocols
- Communicate transparently with Toolpusher, Supervisors, Project Managers and clients
- Adhere to all company, client, and regulatory safety requirements
Qualifications & Requirements
- Proven experience in surface core drilling or similar roles (geotechnical, exploration)
- Ability to lead a small crew and supervise daily operations
- Basic mechanical aptitude — understanding of diesel engines, hydraulics, drilling tools, etc.
- Strong commitment to safety, with experience in safe work practices
- Physical capability to lift up to 100 lbs., work at heights, and perform strenuous tasks
- Ability to work long hours (often 12-hour shifts), in remote or extreme weather conditions
- Valid driver’s license, clean driving record
- Pass pre-employment physical, drug & background screening
- Willingness to adhere to rotational schedule (e.g. 14 on / 7 off or 20 on / 10 off)
- Comfortable living on site and adapting to changing field conditions
- Good communication skills and ability to work well in a team
Work Schedule & Conditions
- Typical rotations: 14 days on / 7 days off (or per project schedule)
- Other rotations: 20 days on / 10 days off or 28 days on / 14 days off
- 12-hour shifts (day and night) — rigs operate 24/7
- Remote, rugged locations with travel required
- Camp-style living, with site accommodations and meals provided
- Exposure to extreme weather, uneven terrain, and physically demanding tasks
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive hourly wage or salary (based on experience)
- Overtime and shift premium pay
- Travel per diem when required
- Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision, life, etc.)
- Retirement plan / 401(k) or equivalent
- Training and career development opportunities Progressive advancement track (Driller Lead Driller
- Foreman / Toolpusher)