Driller Courses
A Driller operates equipment to extract minerals and fluids from underground, setting up and maintaining rigs while collaborating with a team.
AI Exposure
Low
Core skills such as social intelligence and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
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How do I become a Driller
Get qualified to work as a Driller with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
RII31820
Get started in mine tunnel construction and drilling with the RII31820 Certificate III in Drilling Operations. This nationally recognised qualification introduces you to the environmental and safety protocols of a mine site and delivers the technical skills you need to use a range of drilling machines and equipment. The course covers: setting up for drilling operations, team communication and running onsite operations, risk management processes, responding to incidents and emergencies, carrying out operat...
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RIIBHD301E
The RIIBHD301E Conduct Surface Blast Hole Drilling Operations outlines the skills required for surface blast hole drilling in the resources and infrastructure sectors. It covers tasks such as marking drill patterns, operating and relocating rigs, and maintaining equipment. This applies to drillers who work with minimal supervision, performing a variety of skilled tasks in different work environments, exercising some discretion in selecting equipment and making decisions on services or contingency measures...
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RII31619
Duration
6 months - 24 months
Study mode
Apprenticeship, On Campus, Traineeship
Get started in civil construction with the RII31619 Certificate III in Trenchless Technology. This nationally recognised qualification prepares you for work on civil construction sites that utilise trenchless technologies. The course covers: following safety procedures, working in confined spaces, applying risk management, maintaining site records, onsite communication, following plans and job specs, protecting underground services, operating plant and equipment, manual excavation, laying pipes, and much ...
Career opportunities
Duration
6 months - 24 months
Study mode
Apprenticeship, On Campus, Traineeship
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RII30320
Duration
12 months - 18 months
Get a job at underground mines extracting iron ore, copper, tin, nickel, gold, silver and zinc with the RII30320 Certificate III in Underground Metalliferous Mining. This nationally recognised training course introduces you to the environmental and safety protocols of underground mine sites and qualifies you for operator and production roles. The course covers: assessing ground conditions, maintaining site quality standards, identifying environmental and heritage concerns, work team communication, risk ma...
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Duration
12 months - 18 months
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Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Driller.
Common questions
How much does a Driller earn?
In Australia, a full time Driller generally earns $2,080 per week ($108,160 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
What are the job opportunities for a Driller?
The number of people working in this job role has decreased in recent years. There are currently 6,900 people employed as a Driller in Australia compared to 8,600 five years ago. Drillers may find work across various regions of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
How do I become a Driller?
To become a Driller, consider enrolling in a Certificate IV in Drilling Operations. This course will give you the practical skills you need to work in a range of industries. You’ll address various types of drilling including blast hole, seismic, geotechnical, water well, artesian bore, foundation and mineral production.
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More information
A Driller operates equipment used to extract minerals, liquids or gases from underground. You might work on a drilling rig, in the mining industry or in other roles to take samples and remove resources from within the earth. Drillers set up equipment and relocate it to other positions as required. You might also carry out servicing and maintenance on your equipment or arrange repairs when necessary.
Drillers need to be able to work as part of a larger production team and communicate well with colleagues. You should be able to follow directions and prioritise your work tasks. Time management is important and you may have to handle several tasks at once. Drillers often work irregular hours and may have to travel long distances to a work site.
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