Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Gas
Earth drillers operate various drilling equipment like rotary, churn, and pneumatic drills to access underground water and salt deposits, extract core samples for mineral exploration and soil testing, and create holes for explosives in mining and construction. They work on job sites in mines, quarries, construction projects, and geological survey locations.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against earth drillers, except oil and gas and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
Earth drillers set up and operate drilling equipment, monitoring drill performance and adjusting settings as needed. Work involves positioning drills, managing coolant and drilling fluids, extracting core samples or materials, and maintaining equipment. Drillers follow safety protocols, maintain detailed records of drilling depths and findings, and coordinate with other crew members. Weather and site conditions affect daily schedules, and projects may last days, weeks, or longer depending on drilling objectives.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You'd do well in this work if you prefer hands-on, practical problem-solving and following established procedures and safety standards. A logical, methodical approach to operating machinery and a willingness to learn specialized equipment through training are key strengths in this career.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | $61,920 | $80,490 | $100,000 | 210 |
| Alaska | $61,770 | $80,040 | $94,600 | 290 |
| Illinois | $67,820 | $79,080 | $103,480 | 330 |
| New Jersey | $64,600 | $77,950 | $94,490 | 400 |
| Montana | $60,760 | $71,470 | $77,210 | 180 |
| Wisconsin | $59,860 | $68,320 | $77,750 | 280 |
| California | $58,870 | $66,910 | $79,420 | 1,630 |
| New Hampshire | $53,340 | $66,410 | $81,180 | 80 |
| Connecticut | $61,490 | $65,710 | $69,050 | 140 |
| Kansas | $49,870 | $65,600 | $76,010 | 80 |
| Oregon | $59,280 | $64,920 | $76,790 | 510 |
| Colorado | $59,220 | $64,820 | $81,390 | 280 |
All 48 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Well Driller (CWD) — National Ground Water Association
- Certified Vertical Closed Loop Driller (CVCLD) — National Ground Water Association
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against earth drillers, except oil and gas and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 47-5023.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.