Driller

Driller (Epiroc D60 SmartROC)

• Salary: Competitive + Benefits
• Hours: Full Time
• Location: Hemerdon Mine, PL7 5BW

Overview

Tungsten West plc is a mining company based in the UK, dedicated to restarting and operating the Hemerdon Tungsten Mine near Plymouth. As one of the largest tungsten resources in the western world, Hemerdon plays a vital role in supporting technologies essential for future innovation. We prioritise our employees' growth and wellbeing by offering competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, professional development opportunities, and a collaborative workplace culture. This is a fantastic opportunity to join the mine restart project and play a key role in the rebuild, commissioning, ramp-up and transition into full production at one of the UK's most significant mining operations.

Job Summary

As the Driller, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of an Epiroc D60 SmartROC drill rig, delivering production blast holes in accordance with approved drill and blast designs. Working as part of the Drill & Blast team, you will ensure drilling accuracy, maintain high standards of safety and environmental compliance, accurately record drilling data, monitor changing ground conditions, and contribute to the successful delivery of the mine's production targets.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate the Epiroc D60 SmartROC drill rig to drill production blast holes to specified depths, diameters and inclinations.
• Accurately position the drill rig using onboard guidance systems and follow approved drill and blast designs.
• Monitor drilling performance, operating parameters and ground conditions, reporting any significant changes to the Drill & Blast Supervisor.
• Record and submit accurate drilling data, including hole locations, depths, angles and any deviations from design.
• Minimise drilling deviations, collaring errors and unnecessary rework while maintaining high standards of hole quality.
• Complete daily pre-start inspections, monitor machine condition and carry out routine operator maintenance activities.
• Maintain drill rods, bits, compressors and ancillary equipment in good working condition and report defects promptly.
• Comply with all health, safety and environmental procedures, participating in toolbox talks, inspections and risk assessments.
• Maintain awareness of mine hazards, including bench edges, highwalls, traffic movements and blast exclusion zones.
• Support the site's environmental objectives through effective dust suppression, spill prevention and good housekeeping practices.

What You'll Need To Succeed

• NVQ Level 2 in Land Drilling Operations (or equivalent Drilling Operations qualification) as a minimum requirement.
• Previous experience working as a Driller, Blast Hole Driller or within a related drilling environment.
• Experience operating and maintaining drilling rigs, plant machinery and associated equipment safely and efficiently.
• Strong understanding of drilling methods, rig operation, tooling and drilling best practices.
• Ability to interpret site instructions, technical specifications, drawings, risk assessments and operational procedures.
• Knowledge of health, safety and environmental regulations applicable to mining, quarrying, construction or heavy industry environments.
• Ability to accurately complete drilling logs, maintenance inspections, operational reports and site documentation.
• Full UK Driving Licence.
• Experience operating Epiroc SmartROC rigs and previous open-pit mining experience would be highly advantageous.
• A safety-first mindset, excellent communication skills, strong attention to detail and the ability to work effectively as part of a team in a fast-paced operational environment.

If you are interested, click apply or reach out to the recruitment team for more information.

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Health & wellbeing programme
• On-site parking

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Plymouth PL7 5BW: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Work Location: In person