A Career in Drilling

Explore a Career in Drilling

If you're looking for a job that offers great pay, breaks free from the 9-to-5 grind, and lets you develop new skills while earning qualifications on the job, drilling might be the perfect fit. You’ll work outdoors, alongside a team of motivated individuals who thrive on adventure and embrace new challenges every day. If this sounds exciting, a career in drilling could be your next great opportunity.

Check out our Career in Drilling brochure!

This brochure covers everything you need to know about starting a career in drilling, from pay and types of opportunities to growth potential.

An Introduction to Drilling

Driller’s Offsider Job Ready Program

The Driller’s Offsider Job Ready Program, delivered by the WA State Government through Jobs and Skills WA, is a great opportunity to launch a dynamic and rewarding career.

The program is FREE for eligible job seekers, youth (under 25), and concession students. Eligibility criteria apply.

For more details, check out the flyer or visit jobsandskills.wa.gov.au/pathways

Frequently Asked Questions

How old do I need to be?

One requirement for a driller's offsider is the ability to drive trucks used to transport equipment to and from the site. To meet this requirement and obtain a Heavy Vehicle (HV) driver's license, you must be at least 21 years old.

If you are under 21, you can still pursue a career in underground drilling, where trucks are not used in day-to-day operations. In this case, demonstrating competency in driving a 4WD vehicle is usually sufficient.

How do I get started?

There are several ways to begin your drilling career. You can apply through one of the many recruitment firms that hire drillers and offsiders. Alternatively, you can reach out directly to drilling companies in your area. Most companies currently have vacancies and would be eager to receive your application.

Will I have to travel away from home? 

A significant amount of drilling takes place in remote locations, far from major cities, which often requires travel. For example, if you live in Perth and are working in the Pilbara, you’ll likely follow a roster system.

However, some drilling jobs allow you to return home each night, particularly in waterwell, geotechnical, or civil drilling, which often takes place near major cities or regional towns

If I need to work away, how long will it be?

A typical roster system is two weeks on-site followed by one week off. However, schedules can vary, with some requiring more or less time on-site, balanced by a proportional break period.

Who covers the living costs while working away?

Employers typically cover accommodation and meals, so you’ll only need to budget for personal expenses. Most sites offer comfortable rooms, plenty of healthy food, and excellent camp facilities, often including Wi-Fi.

How much will I get paid?

Drilling does not have its own employment award, so your pay will be determined by the industry sector you work in—typically mining, coal, or civil. Wages are based on a base salary, with additional allowances for shift work, overtime, and other applicable factors.

Many employers offer an annual salary that bundles these components together. Additionally, there are often opportunities to earn bonuses based on factors such as productivity and safety.

What are the work hours?

Drilling typically involves 12-hour shifts, which could include consecutive days while you are on-site. Shifts may be day, night, or a rotating schedule that alternates between the two.

Will I receive any training before I start work?

Newcomers to drilling typically begin in supervised, entry-level roles to learn the processes involved. While on-the-job training is the most effective approach, there is usually some form of induction beforehand. This may include basic training on safety protocols and relevant procedures.

How long will I have to wait before starting qualifications?

This should be clearly communicated by your prospective employer. Generally, you’ll be expected to work for a minimum of 3 months before beginning your Certificate II in Drilling. Some companies may require 6 months of work to ensure long-term commitment before enrolling you in the program. The decision on timing is ultimately up to the employer, based on their specific needs.

Will I need to undergo drug and alcohol testing to enter the industry?

Yes! You will likely be required to complete drug and alcohol testing as part of the application and screening process, and then undergo regular testing while on the job.

How safe is it working in the drilling industry, given the large machinery used?

Drilling is a safe occupation when site procedures are correctly followed. The equipment you’ll work with is designed with multiple built-in safeguards to protect personnel from injury. Comprehensive site rules are in place to ensure workers perform their tasks safely. Non-compliance with safety directives is considered a serious breach and can result in dismissal.

How safe is it working in the drilling industry, given the large machinery used?

Drilling is a safe occupation when site procedures are correctly followed. The equipment you’ll work with is designed with multiple built-in safeguards to protect personnel from injury. Comprehensive site rules are in place to ensure workers perform their tasks safely. Non-compliance with safety directives is considered a serious breach and can result in dismissal.

Can women apply?

Historically, drilling has been a male-dominated industry. However, drilling companies are actively hiring women, as they are fully capable of performing the same tasks on-site as their male counterparts. This is partly due to the increasing automation of drilling processes. Additionally, exploration and mining camps now offer separate facilities to accommodate women on-site.

Are there other job roles available in the drilling industry?

Drilling companies also require fitters, mechanics, electricians, and boilermakers to handle rebuilds, servicing, and maintenance. These roles typically require a more formalised apprenticeship, which can last 3-4 years. Once the apprenticeship is completed, tradespeople have the option to work in a home base workshop or on-site at the job location.

Those who choose to work on-site typically follow the same roster system as the drilling staff. In recognition of the extra time spent on the job, the salaries for these roles tend to be higher compared to those at the home base. Drilling companies are actively seeking tradespeople, as they are in high demand, just like drilling staff.