Horizontal Driller

Job highlights
  • Attractive Roster 14D/14R
  • Darwin
  • Longevity and career development opportunities
Job ID 05O - 00132326 Closing date 29/05/2026 Last Updated 08/05/2026

Glencore’s McArthur River Mine (MRM) is a world-class zinc-lead mine with a strong future. Located in the Gulf of Carpentaria, approximately 900 km southeast of Darwin and 64 km from Borroloola, we produce and process zinc, lead, and silver from our open-cut operation. Our products are transported to our Bing Bong loading facility and shipped globally, playing a crucial role in essential commodities used for mobility, infrastructure, and communications.

Benefits:

  • Modern, low-hour / new equipment
  • Supportive and safety-driven team environment
  • Ongoing training and development opportunities
  • 13% Superannuation
  • 14 Days On / 14 Days Off Roster 
  • Excellent career development opportunities
  • Salary sacrificing options for vehicles
  • Benefits program, including discounts with health insurance providers and online/in-store savings through Glencore Rewards


About the Role
We are seeking a skilled and safety-focused Horizontal Drill Operator to operate Vermeer horizontal/directional drill (HDD) rig for Geotechnical / Water Depressurisation. This role will focus on drilling depressurisation bores, dewatering installations, and slope stability support, ensuring accurate drilling and compliance with geotechnical and hydrogeological requirements.

 

You will be responsible for delivering safe, precise drilling outcomes while maintaining productivity and adhering to site procedures and engineering specifications.

 

Key Responsibilities

  • Operate Vermeer HDD drill rig for geotechnical and water depressurisation drilling
  • Drill and install horizontal drains, piezometers, and depressurisation bores
  • Monitor ground conditions, water ingress, and drilling parameters
  • Conduct pre-starts, routine maintenance, and troubleshooting of equipment
  • Maintain accurate drilling logs and report ground and water conditions
  • Ensure compliance with safety standards, environmental controls, and site procedures
  • Work closely with geotechnical engineers, and site supervisors

 

Required Experience & Skills

  • Proven experience operating Vermeer HDD rigs or similar horizontal drilling equipment
  • Experience in geotechnical drilling, slope depressurisation, or dewatering systems (highly regarded)
  • Background in mining, civil, or infrastructure drilling environments
  • Current Open Driver’s Licence (HR desirable)
  • Strong understanding of drilling safety, hazard identification, and ground control practices
  • Experience with drilling fluids and water management
  • Relevant RII competencies and/or training transcripts must be provided
  • Current RII for (highly regarded)
    • Forklift
    • Slew Crane
    • Vehicle Loading Crane
    • Riggers/Doggers ticket
    • Telehandler
  • Strong communication skills and ability to work within a multidisciplinary team
  • Proven experience operating one or more of the following drill rigs: Epiroc D65, DML, Pit Viper, (highly regarded)

 

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We strongly encourage applications from Veterans, First Nations peoples, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities. We believe that embracing diversity strengthens our organisation and creates a supportive environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed.

 

At MRM, we are Territory First – we encourage and prioritise applications from current Northern Territory residents or those willing to relocate.

Current Glencore employees are encouraged to discuss their interest in this position with their manager prior to applying.

To learn more, contact us at mrmjobs@glencore.com.au Note: We may commence interviews and make appointments prior to the closing date.

Apply Now and shape the future with Glencore.