Position Title: Exploration Drilling Coordinator
Department: Exploration
Reports To: Exploration Manager
Position Summary
The Exploration Drilling Coordinator is responsible for the safe and efficient execution of exploration drilling programs. This role coordinates drilling activities between exploration teams, drilling contractors, site operations, and support services to ensure drill programs are completed safely, on schedule, and within budget.
The successful candidate will support exploration objectives by managing drill site logistics, contractor performance, operational reporting, and field coordination while maintaining strong safety, environmental, and quality standards.
Key Responsibilities
Exploration Drilling Operations
- Coordinate daily exploration diamond drilling activities, including specialized drilling programs.
- Work closely with Exploration Geologists to execute drill plans and support exploration objectives.
- Coordinate drill rig scheduling, mobilizations, drill pad readiness, access requirements, drill pad closure, hole abandonments and field logistics.
- Monitor drilling progress, identify operational challenges, and implement solutions to maintain project timelines.
- Maintain accurate records of drilling activities, production rates, downtime, and operational performance.
Contractor Management
- Serve as the primary field contact for drilling contractors.
- Coordinate contractor activities, equipment needs, site requirements, and daily operations.
- Monitor contractor performance, safety compliance, productivity, and adherence to contractual requirements.
- Review daily drilling reports, timesheets, and invoices for accuracy.
Geological & Field Support
- Collaborate with geologists, field technicians, and technical teams to support successful drill program execution.
- Coordinate drill sample handling, core movement and data collection activities.
- Assist with maintaining organized drill records and documentation.
Safety & Environmental Responsibilities
- Promote a strong safety culture and ensure all drilling activities are conducted in accordance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
- Participate in field inspections, safety meetings, hazard assessments, and incident investigations.
- Support compliance with MSHA requirements, environmental permits, and site-specific procedures.
- Promote responsible environmental practices during exploration activities.
Field Logistics & Reporting
- Coordinate drill site preparation, access roads and water supply
- Provide regular updates to exploration leadership regarding progress, challenges, and operational needs.
- Support exploration budget tracking and forecasting.
Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor's degree in Geology, Mining Engineering, Engineering Technology, or related field preferred.
- Equivalent combination of education and relevant mining or exploration experience will be considered.
Experience
- Minimum of 5 years of experience supporting mineral exploration or drilling operations
- Experience coordinating diamond core drilling programs preferred.
- Experience working with exploration drilling contractors and remote field operations preferred.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Strong understanding of mineral exploration drilling practices and field operations.
- Experience coordinating contractors and managing multiple operational priorities.
- Strong organizational, scheduling, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to communicate effectively with geologists, contractors, and site personnel.
- Strong commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and operational excellence.
- Ability to work independently in remote field environments.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite; experience with GIS, exploration databases, or drilling software is preferred.
Physical Requirements & Work Environment
- Field-based position requiring regular work at active exploration drill sites.
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and remote locations.
- Ability to walk on uneven terrain and access active drill areas.
- Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Schedule flexibility required to support active drilling campaigns.
Preferred Certifications
- MSHA Part 46 or Part 48 Training
- First Aid/CPR Certification
- Valid Driver’s License
- Defensive Driving Certification