Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Gas

Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed

Operate a variety of drills such as rotary, churn, and pneumatic to tap subsurface water and salt deposits, to remove core samples during mineral exploration or soil testing, and to facilitate the use of explosives in mining or construction. Includes horizontal and earth boring machine operators.

Pay & job outlook

Median pay: $60,190/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)

$44,460$83,800

Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.

Job outlook: +2.9% projected growth, 2024–2034 — about as fast as average.

About 1,700 openings per year, on average, over the decade.

Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.

Top skills

Operations MonitoringOperation and ControlCritical ThinkingEquipment MaintenanceMonitoringCoordinationActive ListeningComplex Problem SolvingSpeakingEquipment Selection

Top knowledge areas

MechanicalAdministration and ManagementTransportationPublic Safety and SecurityDesignMathematicsProduction and ProcessingLaw and Government

Core tasks

• Operate controls to stabilize machines and to position and align drills.

• Start, stop, and control drilling speed of machines and insertion of casings into holes.

• Regulate air pressure, rotary speed, and downward pressure, according to the type of rock or concrete being drilled.

• Select and attach drill bits and drill rods, adding more rods as hole depths increase, and changing drill bits as needed.

• Drive or guide truck-mounted equipment into position, level and stabilize rigs, and extend telescoping derricks.

• Operate machines to flush earth cuttings or to blow dust from holes.

• Verify depths and alignments of boring positions.

• Perform routine maintenance and upgrade work on machines and equipment, such as replacing parts, building up drill bits, and lubricating machinery.

Frequently asked questions

What's the median pay for Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Gas?

The median pay for Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Gas is $60,190 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What's the job outlook for Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Gas?

Employment for Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Gas is projected to change +2.9% from 2024 to 2034 - about as fast as average.

What education is typically required for Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Gas?

Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.

How many job openings are there each year for Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Gas?

About 1,700 openings per year, on average, over the decade.