Diamond Drill Operator

The Diamond Drill Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient operation and maintenance of underground diamond drilling equipment, ensuring high-quality geological data delivery in line with drill plans. The role emphasizes strict adherence to Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) standards while promoting continuous improvement and teamwork in a dynamic underground mining environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and manage electric/hydraulic diamond drill rigs capable of drilling up to 1000 m depth (NQ/BQ core sizes).
• Interpret and execute drill plans accurately to ensure correct rig setup, alignment, and target achievement.
• Record and report drilling progress, production data, and shift activities accurately and timely.
• Ensure full compliance with all HSE policies, procedures, and standards.
• Conduct routine and weekly inspections of drilling equipment to ensure optimal performance and safety.
• Identify, report, and assist in resolving equipment faults, breakdowns, and safety hazards.
• Ensure accurate deployment and operation of downhole survey tools (e.g., Gyro) and core orientation systems to maintain data integrity for geological interpretation.
• Deliver high-quality core with minimal disturbance (no grinding, breakage, or contamination), ensuring compliance with QAQC and geological logging standards.
• Maintain core in clean, sequential, and presentable condition for logging.
• Assist in rig moves, setup, and breakdown activities in accordance with operational requirements.
• Support the supervisor in improving drilling efficiency, safety performance, and operational effectiveness.
• Promote and actively participate in a positive safety culture within the drilling team.

Qualifications & Experience

• BGCSE (or equivalent) plus a valid Diamond Drill Operator certification/licence.
• Minimum 3–5 years’ experience in diamond drilling operations.
• Underground drilling experience is highly preferred.

Core Competencies & Skills

• Technical Competence: Proficient in diamond drilling methods, equipment operation, and maintenance practices.
• Safety Awareness: Demonstrates proactive safety management, hazard identification, and risk mitigation.
• Physical Fitness: Capable of performing physically demanding tasks requiring strength, stamina, and dexterity.
• Communication Skills: Effective communication in English (written and verbal) with team members and supervisors.
• Problem Solving: Identifies operational issues and contributes practical solutions.
• Teamwork & Leadership: Supervises assistants, promotes teamwork, and maintains discipline on the rig.
• Values Alignment: Demonstrates and upholds PNR core values and behavioural competencies.