Driller Assistant (Helper)

The role

The Driller Assistant works alongside the Driller to support drilling for mineral exploration and resource definition at an open-pit copper mine. The role focuses on safe rig operations, core handling, equipment care, and following health, safety and environmental standards.

What you will do

• Help the Driller safely set up, move and tear down the drill rig and drill pad
• Handle rods, core barrels, casing and tooling while tripping in and out of the hole
• Pull, clean, measure, label and box core accurately
• Mix and manage drilling fluids, and maintain water lines, pumps and supply systems
• Do pre-start inspections, greasing, lubrication and basic maintenance on the rig, compressors, pumps and support equipment
• Help keep drill logs, footage drilled, consumables used and daily reports
• Keep an inventory of bits and supplies
• Recognize changes in ground conditions and flag them to the Driller and geologist
• Keep the drill pad and equipment area clean and organized
• Handle equipment breakdowns and emergencies

Required qualifications

• Experience as a driller's helper, offsider or rig hand, or comparable hands-on field, construction or mechanical work
• Strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn drilling techniques and equipment
• Real commitment to safety and following procedures
• Valid driver's license
• Work 12-hour shifts outdoors on drill pads and rugged terrain, in all weather and extreme temperatures
• Lift at least 50 lbs
• Exposure to dust, noise, vibration and diesel
• Wear all required PPE (hard hat, steel toes, safety glasses, hi-vis, hearing protection, and a respirator when required)

Nice to have

• Diamond core, reverse circulation (RC) or water-well drilling experience
• CDL

About the company

Mariana Minerals is a software-first, vertically integrated minerals company on a mission to supply the critical minerals powering modern energy, AI, and defense technologies.