Geotechnical Drilling Lead

The Drill Lead is a pivotal leadership role within the Geotechnical Drillers Job Family at American Engineering Testing (AET). This position is responsible for overseeing daily drilling operations, ensuring safe and efficient execution of projects, and providing technical direction and mentorship to the drilling team. The Drill Lead coordinates with project managers, engineers, and clients to guarantee that drilling activities adhere to quality, safety, and regulatory standards.

• Provide comprehensive reports to higher management and participate in post-project reviews.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of regulatory requirements, including borehole sealing and environmental compliance, ensuring all operations meet these standards.
• Enforce strict adherence to AET’s safety standards and PPE requirements.
• Oversee the accurate documentation of test boring locations, elevations, and geologic observations.
• Collaborate with project managers and engineering teams to review project instructions and verify that all materials and supplies are available for project completion.
• Supervise the setup, calibration, and operation of drilling equipment.
• Oversee routine maintenance tasks and coordinate repairs for drilling equipment to ensure operational efficiency.
• Adjust operational strategies based on field conditions and project needs.
• Lead and coordinate daily drilling operations on-site, supervising Drill Operators (Levels 1-3) and Drill Assistants.
• Occasionally lift 60-100 pounds from the floor to 2 feet.
• Conduct regular quality checks on drilling activities, sample collection, and field data documentation.
• Ensure drilling activities are executed in line with project plans, schedules, and safety protocols.
• Address technical issues promptly and liaise with maintenance personnel for advanced troubleshooting.
• Foster effective communication between the field team and project management.
• Mentor less experienced team members, sharing technical expertise and best practices to drive continuous improvement on-site.
• Prepare detailed daily and weekly field logs summarizing drilling progress, equipment performance, and any encountered issues.
• Assign tasks and monitor performance, providing technical guidance and mentorship to drilling staff.

This role is a blend of field and occasional office environments. You will spend significant time outdoors at various project sites, facing diverse weather conditions and physically demanding tasks. Flexibility and resilience in a dynamic environment are essential.

The primary differentiator among Drill Operator 1, 2, and 3 levels is the degree of experience and autonomy in performing complex drilling operations.

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical or vocational training in drilling operations or related fields is preferred.
• Ability to travel up to 20% - 80% of work time including overnight travel.
• Willingness to work outdoors and in varying weather conditions.
• Familiarity with regulatory and safety requirements in drilling operations.
• Class D Driver’s License
• Proven ability to guide team members in a non-managerial capacity.
• Capable of the physical labor required including work at hazardous waste sites, with personal protective equipment.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in geotechnical drilling operations.
• Frequently carry 30-60 pounds for 10-30 feet.
• Advanced knowledge of drilling equipment and geotechnical sampling techniques.
• Stand 80% of the day (often on uneven surfaces).
• Move 80% of the day, with frequent bending and stooping.
• Strong technical aptitude, effective communication skills, and the ability to provide clear work direction in a dynamic field environment.
• Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Class A or B Driver’s License.
• Ability to lift and carry heavy equipment.
• Strong documentation and reporting abilities.
• Ability to obtain and maintain required safety and operational certifications as mandated by AET.
• Occasionally carry 60-100 pounds for 10-30 feet.
• Frequently lift 30-60 pounds from the floor to 2 feet.
• Insurable driving record and ability to obtain a medical card.

Compensation details: 29.71-37.16 Hourly Wage

Base compensation is expected to be in the range of $29.71 - $37.16 per hour based on skill set and experience. AET offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health benefits, insurance, Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), long term savings, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. The selected candidate must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. without requiring visa sponsorship now or in the future.