Drill Rig Operator

Job Title: Operator – Drill Rig – T Line Drill Crew
Department: Operations
Reports To: Supervisor
Company: Cobalt Civil, LLC
Location: Winchester, IN
Job Type: Full-Time - Hourly
Effective Date: 7/30/2026

Position Summary

Cobalt Civil is seeking a skilled, safety-focused Drill Rig Operator to support our Transmission Line Drill Crew on utility infrastructure projects throughout the Midwest. This position is responsible for safely operating truck-mounted and track-mounted drill rigs used for transmission line foundation construction while assisting the crew with daily field operations.

The ideal candidate has experience operating drilling equipment, working around heavy construction equipment, and maintaining a strong commitment to safety, quality, and productivity. This position requires frequent overnight travel and the ability to work in a physically demanding outdoor environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Safely operate drill rigs and associated equipment used to construct transmission line foundations
• Perform drilling operations according to project specifications, plans, and supervisor direction
• Assist with drill setup, tear down, tooling changes, and equipment mobilization
• Read plans, layouts, and grade information to accurately position and complete foundation locations
• Work alongside laborers and equipment operators to support drilling, excavation, and concrete foundation activities
• Load, unload, and organize tools, drill steel, augers, casings, and project materials
• Perform daily equipment inspections and basic preventative maintenance
• Identify and report equipment issues requiring repair or maintenance
• Follow all company safety policies, OSHA requirements, and utility-specific safety procedures
• Maintain clean, organized equipment and work areas
• Communicate effectively with supervisors and crew members to ensure safe and efficient operations
• Travel Monday through Friday to project sites as required

Qualifications

• Previous experience operating drill rigs or heavy construction equipment required
• Experience in transmission line, utility, foundation, or civil construction preferred
• Mechanical aptitude with the ability to understand drilling equipment and perform routine maintenance
• Ability to interpret construction plans, layouts, and grade stakes preferred
• Ability to work safely around underground and overhead utilities
• Ability to lift up to 75 pounds and perform physical labor as needed
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and terrain conditions
• Strong work ethic, reliability, and commitment to safety
• Valid driver's license required
• Must pass pre-employment drug screening and background check

Preferred Qualifications

• CDL Class A preferred
• OSHA 10 certification preferred
• Previous experience operating:
  • Altec or Texoma drill rigs
  • Track-mounted drill rigs
  • Foundation drilling equipment
• Experience working on transmission line or utility infrastructure projects
• Experience towing heavy equipment

Work Environment

This position works primarily outdoors on active utility construction sites with exposure to varying weather conditions, uneven terrain, noise, vibration, and heavy equipment. Overnight travel Monday through Friday, overtime, and occasional weekend work may be required based on project schedules.

Why Cobalt Civil

Cobalt Civil offers competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, career advancement opportunities, and the opportunity to work on critical transmission infrastructure projects throughout the region. We are committed to providing a safe, team-oriented work environment where employees can build long-term careers in the utility construction industry.