Experienced Diamond Driller

Posted: June 30, 2026

Type: Full Time

Location: Cromwell, Macraes, Reefton, Waihi

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Experienced Diamond Driller

Join Alton Drilling and help deliver quality drilling solutions on mineral exploration projects across New Zealand.

About Alton Drilling

Alton Drilling is a proudly Kiwi-owned and operated company with over 40 years of experience delivering drilling solutions throughout New Zealand and overseas. We specialise in mineral exploration, operating one of New Zealand’s largest drilling fleets across a wide range of surface and underground projects.

Built on our values of Resourceful, Respect and Genuine, we’re committed to investing in our people, maintaining high safety standards, and creating opportunities for long-term careers in the drilling industry.

About the Role

As an Experienced Diamond Driller, you’ll lead drilling operations on mineral exploration projects throughout New Zealand, safely recovering accurate, high-quality core samples while operating and maintaining modern drilling equipment across both surface and underground environments.

Based from our Waihi, Macraes or West Coast operations, you’ll join hardworking crews that value teamwork, respect, good banter and looking out for one another while delivering quality results safely and efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

• Safely operate diamond drilling rigs to recover high-quality core samples.
• Conduct daily pre-start inspections and equipment checks.
• Complete all required safety documentation and follow company procedures.
• Carry out routine maintenance and minor mechanical repairs.
• Set up, dismantle and relocate drilling rigs and associated equipment.
• Load and unload vehicles, equipment and drilling consumables.
• Maintain drill rigs, vehicles, tools and work areas to a high standard.
• Work closely with your crew to deliver safe and efficient drilling operations.
• Mentor and support Driller Assistants where required.
• Perform other duties as required.

What We’re Looking For

• NZQA Drilling Certificate or equivalent qualification.
• Proven experience operating diamond drilling rigs.
• Strong commitment to health and safety.
• Mechanical aptitude with excellent problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently in remote and underground environments.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Full New Zealand manual Driver Licence.
• Clean Police Record.
• New Zealand Citizen, Permanent Resident or hold the legal right to work in New Zealand.

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly rates.
• Secure full-time employment.
• FIFO opportunities where applicable.
• Project rosters including 2 weeks on / 1 week off, 7:3 and 7:4.
• Ongoing NZQA training and professional development opportunities.
• Modern drilling equipment and a diverse range of exploration projects.
• A supportive team culture built around our values of Resourceful, Respect and Genuine.
• Genuine opportunities for career progression within Alton Drilling.

Ready to Apply?

If you’re an experienced Diamond Driller looking for your next opportunity with one of New Zealand’s leading exploration drilling companies, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today and join the Alton Drilling team.

Important Information

Applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand.

Alton Drilling has a zero-tolerance policy for drugs and alcohol. Successful applicants will be required to pass a pre-employment medical and drug screening and remain compliant throughout their employment.

Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

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