Job Summary

Reporting to the PIC, the Jumbo Operator is responsible for operating advanced twin‑boom electro‑hydraulic drill rigs to develop tunnels, crosscuts, and declines. This role demands exceptional drilling precision, an understanding of geotechnical conditions, and the ability to follow complex drilling patterns that directly determine advance rates. The operator's performance significantly affects production efficiency, explosives usage, ground stability, and overall project timelines.

Key Responsibilities

The operator conducts pre‑start inspections, verifies drilling plans with survey lines, installs and adjusts booms for optimal accuracy, and drills according to engineered patterns. Duties include monitoring rig hydraulics, identifying ground hazards, scaling loose rock, installing mesh and roof bolts, and ensuring that drilled rounds match survey specifications. The operator is responsible for recording drilling performance, communicating deviations, coordinating with charging crews, and maintaining the rig through housekeeping, lubrication, and minor mechanical interventions. Working closely with surveyors and blasting teams, the operator ensures full face advance, controlled overbreak, and minimized dilution. Strong communication with the PIC, Shiftboss and safety teams is essential for risk management.

Qualifications & Experience

A Sandvik Operator Certificate or equivalent for Sandvik DD321 or DD421i or DD422i is required, with at least eight years experience in operating these machines in a mechanized underground high-speed development environment. Ability to install mesh and roofbolts using a Jumbo is required and experience in drilling 4,5m blasting rounds is required. A valid drivers license and the ability to pass a Sandvik Competency Assessment is mandatory.

Strong proficiency in interpreting drill layouts, ground support plans, and OEM machine controls is essential.