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.

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

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.

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

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.