Rock Splitters, Quarry
O*NET 47-5051.00 · SOC 47-5051
Rock Splitter is a solid career choice. Median pay is $49k a year with +5.8% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 400 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Operate drills or wedges to split large quarry rocks
- →Drive chisels into rock seams to create controlled breaks
- →Mark stone along natural grain lines before splitting
- →Remove split stone slabs and stack them for transport
- →Inspect finished stone pieces for cracks or size defects
Education & How to Get In
Rock Splitter roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths, you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.
Get Started Learning
Ready to start building skills for a career as a Rock Splitter? These platforms offer courses you can start today, many with free trials or financial aid.
Links open in a new tab. Some may include affiliate partnerships.
Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Rock Splitter involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Rock Splitter?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Rock Splitter Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
Explore More Careers
Job Outlook
Employment of Rock Splitters, Quarry is projected to grow 5.8% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·51% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
- ·Industry sector with low automation exposure
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Rock Splitter make?
The median Rock Splitter earns $49k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Rock Splitter jobs?
Our model puts Rock Splitter at 38 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 51% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress; industry sector with low automation exposure.
Is Rock Splitter a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 5.8% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 400 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Rock Splitter?
Most Rock Splitter roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.
How long does it take to become a Rock Splitter?
Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Rock Splitter career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
Take the assessment →Free to take · Matches $9 · No account required · 7 minutes