Drill Operator

Job Summary

The Drill Operator is a key technical role within the Geotechnical Drillers Job Family at American Engineering Testing. This position is responsible for independently setting up and operating drilling equipment, ensuring efficient and safe drilling operations, and delivering high-quality field data.

The Drill Operator performs routine and non-routine maintenance, adheres to regulatory requirements, and collaborates with team members to support geotechnical investigations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Reasonable accommodation or workable solutions may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Independently set up, calibrate, and operate drilling equipment in accordance with project specifications and safety guidelines.
• Conduct comprehensive pre-operational checks and post-operational maintenance to ensure equipment is functioning optimally.
• Troubleshoot and resolve operational issues promptly to minimize downtime.
• Lead geotechnical investigations by directing drilling operations and supervising the collection, labeling, and transport of soil, rock, and water samples.
• Prepare and maintain detailed field logs of drilling activities, including documenting test boring locations, elevations, soil classifications, and geologic observations.
• Review project instructions to verify that all required materials, supplies, and equipment are available and in good condition.
• Enforce adherence to AET’s safety protocols and personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements at all times.
• Maintain current knowledge of regulatory requirements, including those for borehole sealing and environmental standards, ensuring all operations remain compliant.
• Collaborate closely with Drill Leads and Supervisors to plan daily operations and adjust procedures based on field conditions.
• Provide clear instructions and support to Drill Assistants, fostering a collaborative team environment and ensuring effective communication with all project stakeholders.
• Oversee routine maintenance tasks and schedule repairs for drilling equipment to uphold operational efficiency and longevity.
  Continuously evaluate operational procedures and contribute to process improvements that enhance safety, efficiency, and data quality.

Qualifications and Education Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Class D Driver’s License.
• Insurable driving record and ability to obtain a medical card.
• Ability to lift and carry heavy equipment.
• Willingness to work outdoors and in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to travel up to 20% - 80% of work time including overnight travel.
• Prior experience in a field or technical role is beneficial but not mandatory.
• Ability to obtain and maintain required safety and operational certifications as mandated by AET.

Preferred Skills

• Class A or B Driver’s License.
• Previous experience in a similar role or a strong mechanical aptitude.
• Basic understanding of geotechnical drilling techniques.

Pay Transparency

Base compensation is expected to be in the range of $22.36 - $27.93 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.

Work Environment

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.

Physical Demands

• Capable of the physical labor required including work at hazardous waste sites, with personal protective equipment.
• Ability to:

• Frequently lift 30-60 pounds from the floor to 2 feet.
• Occasionally lift 60-100 pounds from the floor to 2 feet.
• Frequently carry 30-60 pounds for 10-30 feet.
• Occasionally carry 60-100 pounds for 10-30 feet.
• Stand 80% of the day (often on uneven surfaces).
• Move 80% of the day, with frequent bending and stooping.

AAP/EEO Statement

It is the policy of AET to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Notice to Third Party Agencies: AET does not accept unsolicited resumes from third party recruiting firms. Absent a signed Service Agreement by AET’s Chief People Officer (CPO), AET reserves the right to pursue and hire these candidates without financial obligation to recruiters or agencies.

Compensation details: 22.36-27.93 Hourly Wage