Job Summary
MEG is seeking an experienced Lead Geotechnical Driller to support subsurface exploration projects throughout Texas. The position will be based in Central Texas, but regular travel and overnight work may be required depending on project location.
The Lead Driller will be responsible for safely operating geotechnical drilling equipment, directing the drilling crew, obtaining quality soil and rock samples, maintaining accurate field documentation, and keeping equipment ready for operation. The ideal candidate is dependable, safety-focused, mechanically inclined, and experienced working independently in the field.
Compensation will be based on experience and demonstrated capabilities.
In this pivotal role, you will oversee and execute complex drilling operations, ensuring precise data collection for subsurface analysis. Your leadership will drive safety, efficiency, and quality on the construction site, guiding a team of drillers and equipment operators. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to critical infrastructure projects while maintaining the highest standards of safety and technical excellence.
Responsibilities
- Operate truck-mounted, track-mounted, or similar geotechnical drilling equipment.
- Perform geotechnical borings using hollow-stem augers and other appropriate drilling methods.
- Conduct Standard Penetration Testing and obtain representative soil samples.
- Obtain undisturbed samples using Shelby tubes or similar sampling equipment.
- Perform rock coring when required and properly handle recovered core.
- Observe and document groundwater conditions encountered during drilling.
- Lead and direct driller helpers and other field personnel.
- Confirm boring locations, site access, and project requirements before drilling.
- Maintain accurate field logs, sample identification, boring depths, and daily production records.
- Properly label, protect, transport, and deliver samples.
- Perform routine inspections, maintenance, cleaning, and minor repairs of drilling equipment.
- Identify equipment problems and communicate repair needs promptly.
- Follow company safety procedures, utility-clearance requirements, and project-specific safety plans.
- Maintain a professional working relationship with clients, property owners, contractors, engineers, and other project personnel.
- Travel to project sites throughout Texas and work extended hours or overnight when required.
- Lead and coordinate geotechnical drilling operations, including site setup, equipment deployment, and project execution.
- Operate and supervise heavy machinery such as excavators, loaders, backhoes, and water trucks to facilitate drilling activities.
- Maintain rigorous adherence to federal construction safety regulations and equipment safety procedures across all operations.
- Conduct routine maintenance and inspections of construction machinery to ensure optimal performance and safety compliance.
- Oversee utility locating efforts to prevent underground utility damage during drilling activities.
- Manage construction grading tasks and excavation work with precision, ensuring project specifications are met.
- Train and mentor team members in heavy equipment operation, construction utility work, and safety protocols to foster a culture of safety-first practices.
Required Qualifications
- Prior experience as a lead geotechnical driller or equivalent drilling experience.
- Demonstrated experience operating geotechnical drilling equipment without continuous supervision.
- Working knowledge of soil sampling, Standard Penetration Testing, and geotechnical boring procedures.
- Ability to lead a drilling crew and maintain safe, productive field operations.
- Ability to read project maps, boring plans, and field instructions.
- Mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot common drilling-equipment problems.
- Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
- Ability to travel throughout Texas, including overnight travel.
- Ability to work outdoors in heat, cold, rain, mud, dust, and other field conditions.
- Ability to safely lift and carry drill tooling, soil samples, and equipment.
- Dependable attendance and ability to report to work early when project schedules require it.
Preferred Qualifications
- Commercial Driver’s License.
- Experience with both soil drilling and rock coring.
- Experience operating multiple types of drill rigs.
- OSHA, HAZWOPER, first-aid, or other applicable safety training.
- Experience performing equipment maintenance and field repairs.
- Familiarity with Texas soils and drilling conditions.
- Experience coordinating directly with project managers, engineers, and utility-locate personnel.
- Commercial Driver’s License.
- Experience with both soil drilling and rock coring.
- Experience operating multiple types of drill rigs.
- OSHA, HAZWOPER, first-aid, or other applicable safety training.
- Experience performing equipment maintenance and field repairs.
- Familiarity with Texas soils and drilling conditions.
- Experience coordinating directly with project managers, engineers, and utility-locate personnel.
Physical and Work Requirements
This is a physically demanding field position. The employee must be able to:
- Frequently stand, walk, bend, climb, kneel, pull, and lift.
- Lift and carry heavy tooling, samples, and field equipment.
- Work around moving machinery and drilling equipment.
- Work outdoors for extended periods.
- Work early mornings, long shifts, weekends, or nights when project conditions require it.
- Travel regularly and stay overnight near project sites.
Skills
- Extensive experience operating heavy construction machinery including excavators, loaders, backhoes, and water trucks.
- Strong mechanical knowledge for troubleshooting and maintaining diverse construction equipment.
- Proven ability in utility locating techniques essential for safe drilling operations.
- Valid commercial truck driving license with experience in commercial vehicle operation across construction sites.
- Skilled in construction site experience with a focus on geotechnical drilling projects.
- Knowledge of federal construction safety regulations, equipment safety procedures, and general safety regulations applicable to heavy equipment operation.
- Ability to perform construction grading, excavation, and utility work with accuracy and efficiency.
- Excellent communication skills for coordinating with team members and site managers.
What We Are Looking For
We are looking for a driller who takes ownership of the rig, crew, samples, safety, and final field product. The right candidate will understand that quality drilling is more than reaching the required depth it includes obtaining usable samples, documenting field conditions, protecting equipment, communicating problems, and helping the engineering team receive reliable subsurface information.
MEG is an equal-opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, experience, job performance, and business needs.
Join us as a Lead Driller - Geotechnical to play a vital role in shaping infrastructure projects through expert drilling operations! We are committed to fostering a safe working environment while empowering you with the tools and training needed for success. Your expertise will ensure that every project is completed safely, efficiently, and to the highest quality standards—making a tangible impact on our communities’ development!
Pay: $20.00 - $35.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee assistance program
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Professional development assistance
- Referral program
Work Location: On the road
