Environmental Drilling Operator in Montana Career Overview
As an Environmental Drilling Operator in Montana, you play a vital role in supporting environmental investigations and remediation projects. This position involves operating specialized drilling equipment to gather soil, groundwater, and other samples from the earth.
Key aspects of your job include:
- Implementing drilling methods and techniques that protect the surrounding environment and ensure safety.
- Collaborating with environmental engineers and scientists to assess sites for contamination and evaluate the necessary steps for remediation.
- Conducting field tests and collecting data that contribute to environmental assessments and compliance with regulatory standards.
- Maintaining drilling equipment to ensure it is functioning efficiently and safely, as well as adhering to maintenance protocols to prevent environmental harm during operations.
- Training and supervising other personnel in safe drilling practices and environmental protocols.
Your work directly influences the success of projects related to environmental protection, resource management, and public health. By providing essential data for decision-making, you help organizations mitigate risks and comply with environmental regulations, making your role integral to sustainable practices and community wellbeing in Montana.
Environmental Drilling Operator Salary in Montana
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become an Environmental Drilling Operator in Montana
To become an Environmental Drilling Operator in Montana, you should pursue educational qualifications and specialized training focused on environmental and geological sciences. Several degree programs can provide you with the foundational knowledge necessary for this career:
Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering: This program combines principles of civil engineering with environmental protection, covering soil mechanics, foundation design, and environmental engineering practices.
Geology and Earth Science: A degree in this field offers insights into the composition of the Earth, geological processes, and the environmental impacts of drilling, making it essential for understanding subsurface conditions.
Ground Transportation: This program focuses on the logistics and technical aspects of ground transportation systems and may include courses relevant to transport infrastructure and environmental considerations for drilling operations.
Hydrology and Water Resources Science: This course of study emphasizes the distribution, movement, and properties of water on Earth, which is crucial for understanding groundwater systems and their interactions with drilling activities.
Water Quality and Wastewater Treatment Management and Recycling Technology: This degree provides knowledge about managing water quality issues, treatment systems, and recycling processes, which can be vital for maintaining environmental standards in drilling operations.
In addition to these degree programs, gaining practical experience through internships or training programs in the field of environmental drilling is advised. Such experiences can provide you with hands-on knowledge of drilling equipment, site assessment, and environmental regulations.
Best Schools to become a Environmental Drilling Operator in Montana 2024
Mississippi State University
Santiago Canyon College
Washington State University
Texas A & M University-College Station
City Colleges of Chicago-Olive-Harvey College
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- Operate a variety of drills such as rotary, churn, and pneumatic to tap subsurface water and salt deposits, to remove core samples during mineral exploration or soil testing, and to facilitate the use of explosives in mining or construction.
- Includes horizontal and earth boring machine operators.
Environmental Drilling Operator Required Skills and Competencies in Montana
Technical Proficiency: You should have a solid understanding of drilling equipment and tools. Being able to operate and maintain drilling machinery effectively is vital to your role.
Knowledge of Environmental Regulations: Familiarity with environmental protection laws and regulations applicable to drilling activities is essential. You need to ensure compliance to prevent ecological damage.
Problem-Solving Skills: You must possess strong analytical skills to troubleshoot issues that may arise during operations, ensuring that solutions are implemented efficiently and effectively.
Attention to Detail: Precision is important in monitoring drilling operations and adhering to safety protocols. Your ability to pay attention to small details can prevent accidents and ensure quality outcomes.
Physical Stamina and Strength: The job often requires physical labor in challenging conditions. Maintaining good physical health and stamina is important for safely handling equipment and working long hours.
Teamwork and Communication: Collaborating effectively with fellow operators, engineers, and environmental specialists is necessary. Strong communication skills will help ensure that everyone is aligned and working towards the same goals.
Safety Awareness: A strong commitment to safety practices and protocols is vital. You will need to consistently prioritize the well-being of yourself and your coworkers while adhering to safety regulations.
Data Collection and Analysis: Proficiency in collecting geological and environmental data during drilling operations is crucial. You should be comfortable using technology and software for data analysis to inform project decisions.
Project Management Skills: Being able to plan, execute, and manage drilling projects efficiently is key. This includes time management and resource allocation to meet project deadlines and budgets.
Adaptability: The ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions, technologies, and work processes is important in this evolving field. Flexibility will enable you to thrive in various working environments.
Job Duties for Environmental Drilling Operators
Operate controls to stabilize machines and to position and align drills.
Regulate air pressure, rotary speed, and downward pressure, according to the type of rock or concrete being drilled.
Start, stop, and control drilling speed of machines and insertion of casings into holes.
Mobile location based services software
- Global positioning system GPS software
Office suite software
- Microsoft Office software
Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
Basic Skills
- Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Environmental Drilling Operator in Montana
The job market for Environmental Drilling Operators in Montana is influenced by the state's natural resources and commitment to environmental stewardship. Here are key aspects to consider:
Demand: The increasing emphasis on environmental protection and sustainable practices has led to a steady demand for Environmental Drilling Operators. Industries such as oil, gas, and environmental consulting often require skilled operators to conduct soil sampling, groundwater monitoring, and remediation projects.
Growth Potential: As the market shifts towards more eco-friendly drilling practices and technologies, the need for trained professionals who can navigate these processes is expected to rise. The ongoing expansion of renewable energy projects, including geothermal and wind, is further anticipated to boost job openings for operators familiar with environmental compliance and drilling techniques.
Geographical Hotspots:
- Billings: As the largest city in Montana, Billings serves as a central hub for many resource extraction activities and environmental projects. The city's proximity to various drilling sites makes it a prime location for employment.
- Helena: The state capital is home to various governmental and regulatory entities that oversee environmental practices in drilling. This can lead to job opportunities not just in the field but in regulatory compliance and environmental assessments.
- Great Falls: Known for its proximity to natural resources, Great Falls presents considerable opportunities in environmental drilling, particularly as the area continues to develop its infrastructure for resource management.
- Bozeman: With its thriving eco-tourism and outdoor recreation industry, Bozeman has a growing need for environmental services which includes drilling operations associated with water quality and sustainability projects.
The evolving landscape in Montana's environmental sector promises an array of opportunities for Environmental Drilling Operators, reflecting a balance between resource development and ecological preservation.
Top Related Careers to Environmental Drilling Operator 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become an Environmental Drilling Operator in Montana
National Driller
A leading publication for the drilling industry that offers news, articles, and insights related to various drilling practices, including environmental drilling.
National Driller WebsiteThe American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
Provides resources related to environmental engineering practices, including standards that may relate to environmental drilling operations.
ASCE WebsiteEnvironmental Protection Agency (EPA)
The EPA offers guidelines and regulations that impact environmental drilling, including best management practices and environmental assessment procedures.
EPA WebsiteMontana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ)
This state agency provides regulations, permits, and resources specific to environmental practices in Montana, which can be valuable for environmental drilling operators.
Montana DEQ WebsiteNational Ground Water Association (NGWA)
An organization dedicated to the promotion of the groundwater industry, which includes resources regarding drilling techniques, issues, and safety regarding groundwater.
NGWA WebsiteInternational Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC)
A global trade association that offers training, resources, and support for drilling professionals, including those focused on environmental drilling.
IADC WebsiteOccupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Access vital information regarding workplace safety standards and regulations, specifically tailored for drilling operations.
OSHA WebsiteAmerican Water Works Association (AWWA)
Provides valuable resources related to water resource management and regulations, which can be essential in the scope of environmental drilling.
AWWA WebsiteSociety for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration (SME)
Contains resources and technical papers that might intersect with best practices in drilling within an environmental context.
SME WebsiteState of Montana Job Service
A resource for job listings, training opportunities, and labor market information specific to careers in environmental drilling and related fields in Montana.
Montana Job Service
These resources can help enhance your understanding of the environmental drilling sector and provide valuable tools as you pursue a career as an Environmental Drilling Operator in Montana.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Environmental Drilling Operator in Montana
What does an Environmental Drilling Operator do?
As an Environmental Drilling Operator, you are responsible for operating drilling rigs and equipment used to collect soil and groundwater samples. Your role also includes ensuring the safety of the drilling site and adhering to environmental regulations throughout the drilling process.What qualifications are needed to become an Environmental Drilling Operator?
Typically, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, but some employers may prefer post-secondary education in environmental science or a related field. Additionally, relevant certifications, such as OSHA safety training, are highly beneficial.Is there any specific training required for this job?
Yes, on-the-job training is crucial. You may also need to complete training programs related to drilling techniques, safety measures, and environmental regulations. Many employers provide training on their specific equipment.What skills are important for an Environmental Drilling Operator?
Key skills include:- Mechanical aptitude to operate and maintain drilling equipment
- Attention to detail for sampling procedures and record-keeping
- Strong problem-solving abilities
- Good communication skills to work with team members and clients
What are the work conditions like?
You will often work outdoors in various weather conditions, which can include extreme heat or cold. Sites may be remote, requiring travel. Safety measures must be followed diligently due to the potential hazards associated with drilling.What is the average salary of an Environmental Drilling Operator in Montana?
As of the latest data, the average salary for an Environmental Drilling Operator in Montana ranges from $40,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on experience and specific employer.Are there opportunities for advancement in this career?
Yes, with experience and additional training, you can advance to supervisory roles or specialized positions such as project managers or environmental consultants.What industries employ Environmental Drilling Operators?
You can find opportunities in several industries, including environmental consulting firms, government agencies, and construction companies involved in land assessment and environmental remediation.Which certifications can enhance my employability as an Environmental Drilling Operator?
Relevant certifications may include:- HAZWOPER (Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response)
- First Aid and CPR
- Certifications in specific drilling techniques or technologies
What are the job prospects for Environmental Drilling Operators in Montana?
The demand for Environmental Drilling Operators is expected to remain steady as industries increasingly prioritize environmental assessments and compliance with regulations. Networking with industry professionals can help you find employment opportunities.Can I work as an Environmental Drilling Operator part-time?
While most positions are full-time, some companies may offer part-time roles or seasonal work, especially in peak drilling seasons. It's best to check with individual employers for specific hiring practices.