Driller's Assistant

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. Learn more about the benefits of joining Team UES and our core values at careers.teamues.com.

We are seeking a dedicated and hardworking Driller’s Assistant to join our team and support geotechnical drilling operations, including soil exploration, well installations, and site investigations. In this hands-on role, you’ll work alongside experienced drillers to operate, maintain, and transport drilling equipment while ensuring compliance with project specifications, safety protocols, and company procedures.

As a Driller’s Assistant, you will play a vital role in supporting the drill crew chief with drilling services, assembling and disassembling equipment, maintaining rigs, and ensuring testing and drilling requirements are met. Daily responsibilities include operating tools and equipment, assisting with site setup and cleanup, and preparing basic reports and documentation.

The ideal candidate is mechanically inclined, safety-conscious, and enjoys working outdoors in a variety of conditions. This role requires flexibility in scheduling, with the possibility of overnight and weekend work, as well as travel to project sites both locally and out of town.

This is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in geotechnical drilling, equipment operation, and fieldwork while building a rewarding career in a growing industry.

• Collect and test soil, concrete, and other construction materials in line with project specifications.
• Operate, maintain, and calibrate testing equipment, ensuring proper functionality and compliance with company and manufacturer standards.
• Assist with drilling operations, including rig setup, site preparation, and assembling/disassembling equipment.
• Operate tools such as pneumatic jackhammers and pressure washers for equipment cleaning and maintenance.
• Perform manual labor tasks and maintain drilling rigs, trucks, and work areas to ensure safe and efficient operations.
• Complete accurate daily time and labor reports, and submit required documentation on schedule.
• Maintain assigned company vehicles, including regular service, inspections, and upkeep.
• Follow strict safety protocols and OSHA regulations at all times.
• Report to job sites on time, adapt to changing schedules, and work extended or weekend shifts when needed.
• Travel to local and out-of-town project sites, including overnight stays as required.
• Support project goals and company initiatives by performing additional duties as assigned.

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 0 to 3 years of experience in Civil, Geotechnical, or Environmental Sciences Field Services preferred.
• Prior experience working on construction sites, geotechnical drilling, or environmental field services is a plus.
• 40-hour OSHA training preferred; must be able to pass and maintain OSHA 40HR certification class.
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record required; CDL preferred or willingness to obtain.
• Basic computer proficiency, including experience with Microsoft Office Suite and Field Data Collection (FDC) software or similar industry tools.
• Ability to read, write, and interpret blueprints, procedures, manuals, technical documents, and reports related to drilling, safety, and project requirements.
• Effective time management, problem-solving, and attention to detail, ensuring efficient and accurate documentation of work.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, demonstrating a strong work ethic, reliability, and commitment to safety.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to operate hand and power tools, including pneumatic jackhammers, pressure washers, and other drilling-related equipment.
• Physical capability to lift and carry up to 75 lbs., stand for extended periods, and perform strenuous labor in outdoor environments and varying weather conditions.
• Ability to travel and work flexible hours, including overnight stays, weekends, and varying schedules as needed for project demands.

This position requires extensive travel, approximately up to 70% 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.

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 and 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 your senses to see (including close, distant, and peripheral vison, depth vision, and ability to focus) smell, hear, touch (use hands to reach climb or balance, crouch, stoop, crawl, kneel and sit).

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