One of Equinox Gold’s cornerstone Canadian assets, the Valentine Gold Mine (VGM) is a new, world-class, long-life gold mine located in the central region of Newfoundland and Labrador. The mine achieved first gold in September 2025 and commercial production in November 2025 and, when operating at full capacity, will be the largest gold mine in Atlantic Canada and a significant economic driver and employer in the province. VGM currently has an estimated mine life of more than 14 years, with significant exploration potential. Equinox Gold is a public company (TSX: EQX; NYSE-A: EQX) headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, with a regional office located in Grand Falls-Windsor, NL.
Additional corporate and VGM information is available at www.equinoxgold.com
Equinox VGM is currently inviting applications for a Drill Operator to join our growing team as the company transitions from mine construction to mine operations.
Position Summary
The Drill Operator is a team member of the Mine Operations department and is responsible to assist with the preparation and execution of the drill pattern for the grade control program. This role must ensure work is performed in accordance with health, safety, environmental and legislative requirements.
This position is located at the Mine site, working on a 14 days in/14 days out rotation.
Accountabilities/Responsibilities:
Be a courageous health, safety, and environment advocate, adhere to and promote health, safety and environmental standards, policies, and procedures.
Drive and operate drilling equipment to drill hole or blast hole to specified locations and depths.
Read instructions or diagrams, lay out drill pattern and determine depth and diameter of blast holes and Reverse Circulation holes.
Perform general drill maintenance checks, involving climbing on and walking around the equipment.
Perform maintenance on required drill equipment as required.
Assist blasters where necessary.
Conduct final inspections to ensure that each work order has been completed to meet safety standards.
Actively participate in orientation and training programs.
Conduct daily inspections of the work area.
Adhere to all company policies and procedures.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Education and Experience Required:
High school diploma or equivalent; or a significant amount of related experience in a similar role is required.
Minimum of 5 years’ experience operating blast hole or reverse circulation drill rigs in a Mining environment.
Specific experience working on the following is a strong asset:Sandvik DX900
Epiroc D65 drill
Epiroc T45 drill
Epiroc PV231
Experience and certifications in safe handling and operation of Heavy Equipment in the mining industry is preferred.
Experience working in a remote industrial environment is preferred.
A valid driver’s license and a driver’s abstract.
Skills and Knowledge:
Knowledge of health, safety, and environmental requirements at remote sites.
Excellent coordination and driving skills.
Ability to provide mentorship, coaching, and training to an apprentice.
Strong knowledge of the OHS, and mining regulations.
Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and safety.
Experience with radio communication and protocols.
Excellent communication (oral/written) skills required.
Strong team building skills.
Equinox VGM is an equal opportunity employer committed to local hiring preferences and all applications will be considered on this basis. We value equity and diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace environment for all employees. Equinox reserves the right to hire only those candidates who are appropriately qualified for the position advertised.
Equinox will review all applications; however, we will only contact those candidates who best fit the requirements.
To apply for this position, please do so by clicking on the following link: Careers.
