So you’ve heard that a career in drilling is good money and could lead to a lucrative career? But like all jobs, it’s not as simple as it sounds. The mining and construction job market is extremely competitive, and there are certain requirements you need to meet. So, before sending an application, you need to do a bit of research.
Fortunately, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions and answered them for you. Here’s everything you need to know about a driller’s offsider.
What Does a Driller’s Offsider Do?
An offsider’s job description is pretty simple. Your role is to assist the driller. Some of your responsibilities may include:
- Digging trenches
- Delivering samples
- Moving drill components
- Assisting with drill rig operations
- Assisting with drill rig maintenance
This is an entry-level position and a great start to kick off your career in mining. You’ll be trained on-site by the best Drillers in the industry, have the opportunity to work with experienced tradies and learn new skills. You’ll also have the opportunity to progress as a Trainee Driller or find new pathways to succeed in the mining industry.
Will I Be Working from 9-5? What Does FIFO Mean?
If you don’t like being cooped up in the office all day long, this role is perfect for you. As a driller’s offsider, you’ll be spending more time outdoors and you won’t be following a fixed 9-5 schedule. Instead you’ll be following a FIFO (fly-in fly-out) arrangement. Working as a FIFO driller means you’ll be flown to your outdoor work site where you’ll work for a set period before flying home.
Depending on your FIFO swing, you’ll spend weeks away from your family. On the plus side, when you get back from work, you’ll have all the time in the world to spend with your family and friends.
How much will I be paid as a Driller’s Offsider?
The salary for a driller usually starts at $35.00 per hour or around $90,000 a year. It’s a great starting rate, and you’re usually provided with accommodation, free gym memberships, and most meals cooked by chefs when you work on site.
Is It an Easy Job?
As far as jobs go, there is no such thing as an easy one, and this one is definitely not for softies. Some might even argue this is one of the most physically challenging and dangerous jobs because you’ll be subjected to extreme weather conditions. As long as you’re hard enough, you’ll have a rewarding career ahead of you.
What Are the Requirements for This Role?
You don’t need a college degree to be a driller’s offsider, but a background in a physical role such as labouring or trade assisting will get you set up for the job. Other requirements for this role include a pre-employment medical, drug & alcohol screen, a clean police record, mechanical aptitude and strong problem-solving skills.
What’s Next
Now that you know the basics of being a driller’s offsider, we hope it can help you decide whether it’s the kind of job that might suit you. If you want to step into your next role with confidence, the Aston JobFit Challenge™ gives you a taste of what your new job will be like before you get on site.
Apply for the role and see where it takes you. Better yet, fill out the form on our website and get job alerts about new jobs in mining and construction.
At Aston Advantage, we’ll work with you to advance your career now and into the future. Understanding where you are and where you want to go will help us find the right job for you. What are you waiting for? A rewarding career in drilling awaits!
