Underground Operations - Underground Helper

The Underground Driller Assistant supports underground and surface drilling operations by assisting with equipment operation and maintenance, site housekeeping, sample handling, safety compliance, and drilling activities. This position works under the direction of the Driller and Field Supervisor and is responsible for performing assigned duties in accordance with company policies, MSHA regulations, and site-specific requirements.

• Comply with all company policies, site rules, MSHA regulations, and safety requirements.
• Participate in safety meetings, toolbox talks, site inductions, and safety share activities.
• Complete workplace hazard assessments and pre-task risk evaluations before beginning work.
• Follow established procedures for Lock Out Tag Out Try Out (LOTOTO), brassing in/out, incident reporting, near-miss reporting, and hazard identification.
• Exercise stop-work authority when unsafe conditions or practices are identified.
• Wear and maintain required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Assist with emergency response activities and follow site emergency procedures as required.

• Perform pre-shift inspections of drill rigs, mobile equipment, hand tools, and support equipment.
• Conduct preventive maintenance activities and routine equipment inspections.
• Assist with rebuilding and maintaining drilling equipment, including latch heads, water swivels, pumps, mud systems, and related components.
• Install and replace parts, gaskets, valves, and other drilling equipment components as required.
• Assist with drill rig setup, movement, and teardown activities.
• Operate vehicles, forklifts, and other equipment when trained, authorized, and qualified to do so.
• Assist with inventory management, tool inspections, and equipment audits.

• Assist with drill setup and operation, including drill station preparation and maintenance.
• Perform rod handling, rod tripping, and related drilling support activities.
• Assemble, disassemble, inspect, and maintain downhole tooling and core barrels.
• Mix, monitor, and troubleshoot drilling fluids, muds, and grouts.
• Assist with surveying activities and the use of drilling orientation tools.
• Maintain drilling supplies, consumables, and equipment required for ongoing operations.

• Collect, label, handle, secure, and transport samples in accordance with company procedures.
• Label, load, and secure core boxes and maintain accurate sample identification.
• Build and maintain chip trays and sample storage areas.
• Record sample information and complete required drilling documentation.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Perform housekeeping duties in accordance with site requirements and company standards.

• Assist in the training and onboarding of new employees as directed.
• Communicate operational, equipment, and safety concerns to supervisors.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Driller, Field Supervisor, or management.

• Ability to understand and follow safety procedures, work instructions, and standard operating procedures.
• Knowledge of underground mining and drilling safety practices.
• Ability to read and interpret drill plans, maps, and operating instructions.
• Ability to use workplace communication systems and emergency response equipment.
• Knowledge of hazard recognition and reporting procedures.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Ability to safely use hand tools, power tools, and job-related equipment.

• Current MSHA Part 48 Underground and Surface Miner certification (5000-23) or ability to obtain as required by the project.
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