What Tickets Do I Need to Join the Drilling Industry?
Are you ready to kickstart your career in the drilling industry? If you’re eyeing a role as a Driller’s Offsider, you’re about to dive into one of Australia’s most dynamic and essential sectors. But before you get your boots on the ground, you’ll need to upskill yourself with the right tickets and certifications. These will get your foot in the door and set you up for success in this challenging and rewarding field.
Must-Have Tickets to Get You Started
Manual C-Class Licence (Unrestricted)
First things first—you’ll need an unrestricted manual C-class licence. Why? Because 9 times out of 10, you’ll be driving vehicles with manual transmissions on-site. This licence is your golden ticket to legally operating these vehicles, which is a non-negotiable part of the job.
Heavy Rigid (HR) Truck Licence
Next up, the HR truck licence. While you might not need it on day one, having (or working on getting) this licence is a huge plus. It allows you to drive the heavy vehicles that keep drilling operations moving. Plus, upgrading to an HR licence is a must if you’re aiming for bigger roles down the line.
National Police Clearance (Within 3 Months)
A recent National Police Clearance is essential. It’s all about ensuring trust and safety on-site. Employers need to know that you’re a reliable team player, especially when working in tight-knit crews handling critical tasks.
Pre-Employment Medicals
Before you join the team, you’ll need to pass a drug and alcohol screening along with pre-employment medicals. These tests confirm that you’re fit for the physically demanding work and that you’re ready to maintain a safe, productive work environment.
Boost Your Game: Highly Regarded but Not Required Tickets
Current First Aid & CPR Certificate
Safety first! A current First Aid and CPR certificate is definitely puts you above the rest. You may find yourself on an exploration site, working in remote locations where quick responses to emergencies can make all the difference. This certification ensures you’re ready to step up when it counts.
Working at Heights
Want to stand out? A Working at Heights ticket can do just that. Drilling isn’t just ground-level work—sometimes, you’ll be up high, and this ticket shows that you’re trained and ready to handle it safely.
4WD Training
Remote sites often mean rough terrain, and that’s where 4WD training comes in. While not a requirement, having this ticket proves you can safely navigate the rugged landscapes that are part and parcel of drilling operations.
White Card
The White Card is your entry ticket to working on any construction site in Australia, and while it’s not always mandatory for drilling roles, it’s definitely a smart addition to your toolkit. This card shows that you’ve completed the necessary training to understand and apply basic safety protocols on site, making you a safer and more valuable team member.
Bonus Tip
Many employers are willing to cover the costs of pre-employment medicals, heavy rigid licence upgrades, and first aid training. So, don’t let those costs hold you back—ask your prospective employer about support for these expenses.
A Day in the Life of a Driller’s Offsider
Get ready for 12-hour shifts, both day and night, in some of the most remote parts of Western Australia. As a Driller’s Offsider, you’ll be doing everything from setting up and dismantling drilling rigs to taking ore samples, assisting the Driller, and even sharing cooking and cleaning duties with your crew.
This role is physically demanding and requires a strong team spirit. You’ll be working in small crews, often under challenging conditions, but that’s part of what makes this job so exciting and rewarding. And let’s not forget—the experience you gain here can open up endless opportunities in the drilling industry.
Ready to Join the Action?
Getting these essential tickets and certifications is your first step toward a thrilling career in the drilling industry. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upskill, having the right qualifications will set you apart from the crowd and prepare you for the journey ahead.
So, are you ready to make your mark in the drilling world? Get those tickets, lace up your boots, and let’s get to work!
For more tips and insights on how to excel in this field, have a look through our resources.
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