Drilling Lead

Overview

At UES, we’re a team of more than 4,000 engineers, scientists, geologists, inspectors, technicians, and drillers united by a shared purpose—to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. As a national leader in geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, and materials testing and inspection, we collaborate on transformative projects across transportation, energy, water, healthcare, and more.

The Drilling Lead is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of a drilling crew in the field. This position serves as the on-site leader, ensuring that drilling activities are executed safely, efficiently, and according to project specifications. The lead coordinates site setup, assists with equipment operation, and oversees sampling and data collection. The role also mentors junior field staff, maintains site documentation, and upholds quality control and safety standards.

• Lead drilling crew on active job sites, ensuring all daily tasks are completed according to plan and safely executed
• Support setup and operation of drilling rigs and equipment; monitor drilling methods and site conditions
• Oversee sample collection, labeling, and chain-of-custody procedures in accordance with project specifications
• Serve as point of contact for field-related questions and issue resolution
• Ensure the job site is maintained according to safety and housekeeping standards
• Train and mentor Driller Helpers and new crew members to promote technical skill development and safety awareness
• Maintain daily field logs, crew time sheets, inspection reports, and documentation
• Communicate regularly with the Drilling Coordinator or Supervisor regarding progress, delays, or operational concerns

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical training preferred
• 3+ years of drilling or field services experience, preferably in environmental or geotechnical services
• Working knowledge of drilling techniques, soil sampling, and safety protocols
• Ability to interpret work plans and follow technical procedures
• Effective communication and leadership skills in field environments
• Ability to work outdoors in variable conditions and lift up to 75 lbs
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record; CDL preferred

This position primarily works in an outdoor work environment, regularly exposed to varying field conditions, including:

• Sites that may not be accessible by vehicle, requiring travel on foot through wetlands, swamps, grasslands, fields, and other uneven or rugged terrain with natural and man-made obstacles such as sand, brush, and debris
• Moderate to loud noise levels, common in active construction and industrial environments
• Exposure to environmental elements including dirt, dust, sun, heat, humidity, and adverse weather conditions

The physical requirements for this position may include (but are not limited to):

• Ability to lift and/or carry 35 to 75 lbs. up to 75 feet, involving regular repetitive motion
• Ability to stand, walk, drive, and operate equipment for extended periods
• Frequent use of hands and arms for typing, handling tools, and operating equipment
• Ability to bend, twist, reach, stoop, pull, kneel, climb, balance, lift, carry, and push as required for fieldwork and inspections
• Ability to speak and hear effectively to communicate in noisy environments and with project teams
• Ability to use senses to see (including close, distant, and peripheral vision, depth vision, and ability to focus), smell, hear, touch (use hands to reach climb or balance, crouch, stoop, crawl, kneel, and sit)

• This position requires moderate travel, approximately up to 50% of the time, in support of business objectives and client engagements. Travel may be both scheduled and on short notice, depending on project needs. Destinations typically include job sites, field locations, or regional offices, where work may be conducted in outdoor or operational environments. Adherence to all company safety protocols and use of PPE is required during travel and on-site work.

UES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is proud to recruit the most qualified candidates. Please see our full EEO Statement here.

Not Applicable

Full-time

Engineering and Information Technology