Career Profile

Rock Splitters, Quarry

What they do:

Separate blocks of rough dimension stone from quarry mass using jackhammers, wedges, or chop saws.

Also Called:

Driller, Quarry Worker, Rock Splitter, Splitter Operator, Stone Breaker, Stone Splitter, Driller, Quarry Worker, Rock Splitter, Splitter Operator, Stone Breaker, Stone Splitter
$37,340
Starting Salary (2025)
$48,740
Median Salary (2025)
4.4%
Projected Job Growth
3,320
Employment (2025)

Typical Tasks

Remove pieces of stone from larger masses, using jackhammers, wedges, and other tools.
Insert wedges and feathers into holes, and drive wedges with sledgehammers to split stone sections from masses.
Mark dimensions or outlines on stone prior to cutting, using rules and chalk lines.
Locate grain line patterns to determine how rocks will split when cut.
Drill holes along outlines, using jackhammers.

What kind of work is this?

Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work
Investigative
Studying, Research based work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Dependability
Independence
Integrity
Social Orientation
Concern for Others
Cooperation

What key skills are needed for this job?

Operation and Control
Operations Monitoring
Active Listening
Monitoring
Coordination
Complex Problem Solving

Expected Knowledge

Production and Processing

Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.

Mechanical

Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.

Mathematics

Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

Common Activities

Handling and Moving Objects

Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.

Performing General Physical Activities

Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.

Controlling Machines and Processes

Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).

Education & Preparation

Some occupations may require additional education, advanced degrees, and years of experience in the field.
Talk to your support team on campus about this career pathway and additional degree information.
Job Zone 1

Little or No Preparation Needed

Education

Some of these occupations may require a high school diploma or GED certificate.

Experience

Little or no previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations.

Training

Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few days to a few months of training. Usually, an experienced worker could show you how to do the job.

Typical Education Required

Education a new hire may need

  • Less than high school 50%
  • High school diploma 31%
  • Professional degree 19%
Source: O*NET Education, Training & Experience data

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