driller

A driller is a person or a machine that creates holes by drilling. In manufacturing and construction, drillers operate equipment that rotates cutting bits to remove material. In professional contexts, the term can refer to an operator who handles a drill or to the drill rig itself.

As a person, a driller may work in construction, mining, geotechnical engineering, water-well drilling, or oil and gas. Responsibilities include selecting appropriate drill bits, setting speeds and feeds, monitoring hole depth, collecting samples, and maintaining equipment. They must observe safety protocols and follow project specifications.

Equipment ranges from small handheld cordless or corded drills used in carpentry and metalworking to stationary drill presses in shops. In field operations, rotary drilling rigs, auger rigs, and cable-tool rigs are used to penetrate soil and rock and to extract core samples or reach reservoirs. Offshore and onshore oil and gas drilling employ large, complex rigs with rotating drill strings.

Drill bits come in various geometries (twist bits, carbide, diamond) and are chosen for material and hole size. Drilling often uses coolant or lubricant to reduce heat and extend bit life. Accurate depth control, hole straightness, and finished tolerances are important in most drilling operations.

In dentistry, the term driller is rarely used; the dental drill is operated by a dentist or dental hygienist. Across industries, driller roles are regulated by safety standards, and certification or training may be required. See also drilling, drill bit, drill press, and drilling rig.