Hydraulic Drill / Jack Leg Operator

Hydraulic Drill / Jack Leg Operator Southland (SLND) | Austin, Texas

About Southland Southland (SLND) is a century-old infrastructure builder with a legacy of constructing critical bridges, tunnels, water systems, and heavy civil projects across all 50 U.S. states, two Canadian provinces, and internationally. Through the combined strength of its operating companies, Southland self-performs the majority of its work, giving clients greater value, expedited schedules, and quality delivered safely and productively. Above all, Southland is a family company — the mission on every job is to send every team member home safe.

Position Summary Southland is seeking an experienced Hydraulic Drill / Jack Leg Operator to support heavy civil and underground construction work on a project in the Austin, Texas area. This role is responsible for the safe and accurate operation of pneumatic jack leg drills and hydraulic drilling equipment to drill blast holes, rock bolts, and anchor points in tunnel, shaft, and rock excavation environments. The ideal candidate has hands-on underground or rock excavation experience and a strong, demonstrated commitment to jobsite safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and operate hydraulic drills and pneumatic jack leg drills to bore holes for blasting, rock bolting, spiling, and grouting in tunnel, shaft, and rock excavation settings
• Read and interpret drill patterns, blast plans, and rock support drawings to drill to specified depth, angle, and spacing
• Position, align, and stabilize drill steel and bits; change bits and rods as needed for varying rock conditions
• Install rock bolts, spiles, and other ground support elements as directed by the shift supervisor or foreman
• Inspect drilling equipment, air lines, hoses, and hydraulic systems before each shift; perform routine maintenance and report defects immediately
• Work safely in confined, underground, and low-visibility conditions, following all ground control and ventilation procedures
• Coordinate with drill crew, miners, and blast crew to maintain a safe and efficient drilling cycle
• Maintain accurate drill logs, footage records, and consumable usage as required
• Follow all Southland and site-specific safety protocols, including lockout/tagout, fall protection, and confined space entry
• Participate in daily safety briefings, toolbox talks, and pre-task planning

Qualifications

• Minimum 2+ years of experience operating jack leg or hydraulic drills in underground, tunnel, mining, or heavy civil rock excavation work
• Working knowledge of drilling patterns, rock bolting, and ground support installation
• Ability to safely work underground, at heights, and in confined spaces for extended shifts
• Physical ability to lift and maneuver drill steel, rods, and equipment (up to 50 lbs.) repeatedly throughout a shift
• Willingness to work rotating shifts, nights, and weekends as project schedule requires
• MSHA or OSHA safety training preferred; willingness to complete site-required certifications
• Valid driver's license; reliable transportation to the jobsite
• High school diploma or equivalent preferred

Why Southland

• Competitive pay based on experience
• Medical, dental, and vision benefits
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and holidays
• Opportunity to grow with a 100+ year infrastructure builder that self-performs its own work

Southland is a drug-free workplace and an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.