Drill Operator

Code: 47-5012.00

Also known as: Daylight Driller, Drill Operator, Driller, Drilling Rig Operator, Motor Man, Oil Rig Driller, Oil Well Driller, Relief Driller, Tool Pusher

Description: Drill Operators set up, maintain and operate drills involved in the extraction of underground gas or oil. Operators also remove core samples that can be later tested during gas and oil exploration. Although there are no formal educational requirements, on-the-job experience is usually required in a related field., primarily one dealing with the operation of motor vehicles.

Drill Operator

Typical wages


10% $33,600
25% $42,790
Median $53,820
75% $71,780
90% $90,640
10% $16.15
25% $20.57
Median $25.88
75% $34.51
90% $43.57

Projected employment

Estimated Employment
(2019 year)
20,900
Projected Employment
(2029 year)
26,600
Percent Change +0 %
Projected Annual Job Openings 3,400