Bore Rig Operator

A bore rig operator's duties include

safely operating and maintaining drilling equipment to create deep, narrow holes for various purposes, including utility installation, water wells, and resource extraction. They work as part of a crew and must follow detailed project plans and strict safety protocols.

Pre-drilling duties

• Site preparation: Before drilling, the operator is responsible for positioning the rig and associated equipment, such as mud pumps and generators, at the correct location. In directional drilling, they must first verify the bore path and mark all existing underground utilities to avoid accidental damage.
• Inspections and checks: The operator conducts pre-operation inspections to ensure all equipment is in working order. This includes verifying that all safety systems and support equipment are functioning properly.
• Fluid mixing: Depending on the type of drilling, the operator may need to mix drilling fluids or "mud" by adding clay and chemicals to water to achieve the right consistency.

Operation duties

• Equipment operation: The operator skillfully uses levers and controls to manage the drill's speed, pressure, and direction. They monitor gauges to ensure the machine operates within safe and optimal parameters.
• Collaboration: They work with a crew and may direct their activities, such as connecting drill pipes and assembling rig components.
• Sampling and analysis: In water well or geotechnical drilling, the operator may collect and log core samples to determine the nature of the rock and soil strata being drilled.
• Problem-solving: The operator must troubleshoot issues during drilling, including addressing geological obstacles and retrieving lost or broken bits and pipes.
• Directional steering: For directional boring projects, the operator uses specialized equipment to precisely guide the drill head along the planned underground path.

Post-drilling and maintenance duties

• Data recording: The operator is responsible for maintaining accurate records of the drilling process, including footage drilled, materials used, and geological data.
• Equipment maintenance: Regular and preventative maintenance is a key duty. This includes cleaning, greasing, and repairing equipment to ensure it performs correctly.
• Well completion: For water wells, the operator installs the well casing, necessary hardware, and the pump to prepare the well for use.
• Site cleanup: After the job is complete, the operator and crew clean and restore the site, which may include plugging observation wells.