Description
Operate pneumatic and hydraulic rock drills to bore holes in rock for blasting, anchoring, and grouting in mining, quarrying, and heavy construction; set up and align drill rigs, regulate drilling parameters, and maintain equipment per plans and safety standards.
- • Read and interpret drill and blast plans and mark hole locations.
- • Position, level, and stabilize drill rigs using jacks or outriggers.
- • Select drills, bits, rods, and tooling based on rock type and hole specs.
- • Start, stop, and control rotation, feed, and impact to match geology.
- • Regulate air and water flow for flushing and dust suppression.
- • Drill blastholes and anchor/grout holes to required depth, angle, and diameter.
- • Verify hole depths, angles, and spacing with gauges or alignment tools.
- • Add and remove drill rods and change bits as conditions require.
- • Monitor gauges, penetration rates, and machine sounds to adjust drilling.
- • Operate systems to clear cuttings and blow or flush dust from holes.
- • Record footage drilled, ground conditions, and production data.
- • Perform daily inspections, lubrication, and routine maintenance.
- • Replace wear parts, build up or sharpen bits, and service hydraulic and pneumatic systems.
- • Troubleshoot stuck tools and retrieve lost equipment from holes.
- • Move and spot rigs safely between holes; signal support or crane operators.
- • Install hole collars, sleeves, or casings where required.
- • Assist blast crews by cleaning, labeling, and preparing holes per procedures.
- • Follow site safety rules and lockout/tagout during maintenance.
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
