Drill Rig Operator

 Position Overview: 

The Drill Rig Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and productive operation of the Company's Reverse Circulation (RC) drilling rigs and mini diamond drilling rigs (Openok) used for mineral exploration, grade control, and geological investigations. The role involves operating drilling equipment, monitoring drilling performance, ensuring proper sample recovery, and maintaining equipment in good working condition to support the Company's exploration and mining activities. 

The Drill Rig Operator is expected to conduct daily equipment inspections, perform routine operator maintenance, identify and report mechanical issues, and work closely with geologists, mechanics, and other operational personnel to ensure safe and efficient drilling operations. Previous experience operating RC and/or diamond drilling rigs in a mining or exploration environment is preferred, together with a strong commitment to safety, operational efficiency, and teamwork. 

The Company maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy regarding alcohol and illegal substances. Employees are required to reside at the company camp in Chunya, Mbeya Region, Tanzania, during work rotations and work within structured shift schedules. 

 Key Responsibilities 

• Operate Reverse Circulation (RC) drilling rigs and “Openok” modular drilling rigs safely and efficiently in accordance with approved drilling programs, technical specifications, and company procedures. 
• Execute drilling activities for mineral exploration, grade control, resource definition, geotechnical investigations, and mine development while meeting daily production targets. 
• Interpret drilling instructions, collar coordinates, hole orientation, depths, and geological requirements before commencing drilling operations. 
• Conduct comprehensive daily pre-start inspections of drilling rigs, compressors, hydraulic systems, engines, pumps, tooling, and safety equipment to ensure operational readiness. 
• Set up, position, and level drilling rigs correctly to ensure drilling accuracy, equipment stability, and safe operation. 
• Monitor and adjust drilling parameters including rotation speed, feed pressure, penetration rate, air pressure, flushing systems, and drilling fluid performance to maximize productivity and minimize equipment wear. 
• Ensure accurate drill hole alignment, depth control, and adherence to planned drilling specifications. 
• Perform drill rod handling, rod additions and removals, bit changes, casing installation, and recovery operations safely and efficiently. 
• Ensure proper collection, recovery, handling, labeling, and storage of drill samples, chips, and core in accordance with geological sampling protocols and chain-of-custody requirements. 
• Maintain accurate drilling logs, shift reports, production records, equipment operating hours, fuel consumption, and maintenance documentation. 
• Assist mechanics during scheduled servicing, repairs, equipment breakdowns, and major maintenance activities to minimize operational downtime. 
• Safely operate auxiliary equipment associated with drilling activities, including compressors, water pumps, generators, mud mixing systems, and support vehicles where authorized. 
• Ensure safe handling, storage, and efficient use of drilling consumables including drill rods, bits, hammers, lubricants, drilling fluids, fuel, and spare parts.
• Maintain drilling sites in a clean, organized, and environmentally responsible condition, ensuring proper waste management and spill prevention. 
• Strictly comply with all company Health, Safety, Environmental (HSE), and Mining Regulations, including Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO), permit-to-work systems, hazard reporting, and emergency response procedures.
• Conduct risk assessments before commencing drilling activities and immediately stop work whenever unsafe conditions are identified. 
• Coordinate daily drilling activities with geologists, surveyors, supervisors, mechanics, and other operational departments to ensure drilling programs are completed efficiently and accurately. 
• Report equipment damage, operational delays, safety incidents, environmental hazards, and near misses immediately to supervisors. 
• Demonstrate responsible operation of Company equipment to maximize equipment life, minimize operating costs, and maintain high levels of productivity. 
• Perform any other duties reasonably assigned by management that are consistent with the position and support the Company's exploration and mining operations. 

• Preferred Qualifications: 

  • Valid Heavy Equipment or Drill Rig Operator Licence (where applicable). 
  • Certificate or vocational training in Drilling, Mining, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field. 
  • Minimum 2–5 years of experience operating RC and/or Diamond Drilling Rigs in the mining or mineral exploration industry. 
  • Experience with Openok, Atlas Copco, Sandvik, Epiroc, or similar drilling equipment is an advantage. 
  • Current First Aid, Working at Heights, or Mine Safety certifications are desirable.