Drill Lead

AET•Saint Paul, MN

7h•$30 - $37

About The Position

The Drill Lead is a leadership role within American Engineering Testing’s Geotechnical Drillers Job Family. The position oversees daily drilling operations, supports safe and efficient project execution, and provides technical direction and mentorship to the drilling team. The Drill Lead coordinates with project managers, engineers, and clients to ensure drilling work complies with project, quality, safety, and regulatory requirements. The role provides on-site work direction to Drill Operators and Drill Assistants but does not include formal managerial or performance-management responsibilities. The Drill Supervisor handles those functions. Work takes place in field environments and occasionally in an office, with significant outdoor time at project sites, varied weather, and physically demanding tasks. Travel may account for 20%–80% of work time, including overnight travel.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least 3–5 years of experience in geotechnical drilling operations.
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 in varying weather conditions.
Ability to travel 20%–80% of work time, including overnight travel.
Ability to obtain and maintain safety and operational certifications required by AET.
Strong technical aptitude, effective communication skills, and ability to provide clear work direction in a dynamic field environment.
Ability to perform physical labor at hazardous waste sites while wearing personal protective equipment.

Nice To Haves

Technical or vocational training in drilling operations or a related field.
Class A or B Driver’s License, or willingness to obtain one if required.
Advanced knowledge of drilling equipment and geotechnical sampling techniques.
Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
Proven ability to guide team members in a non-managerial capacity.
Strong documentation and reporting abilities.
Familiarity with regulatory and safety requirements in drilling operations.

Responsibilities

Lead and coordinate daily on-site drilling operations, providing work direction to Drill Operators (Levels 1–3) and Drill Assistants.
Ensure drilling activities follow project plans, schedules, and safety protocols.
Assign tasks, monitor performance, and provide technical guidance and mentorship to drilling staff.
Promote effective communication between field teams and project management.
Supervise the setup, calibration, and operation of drilling equipment.
Conduct quality checks on drilling activities, sample collection, and field data documentation.
Oversee accurate documentation of test boring locations, elevations, and geologic observations.
Enforce AET safety standards and personal protective equipment requirements.
Keep current with regulatory requirements, including borehole sealing and environmental compliance, and ensure operations meet those standards.
Coordinate with project managers and engineering teams to review project instructions and confirm materials and supplies are available.
Adjust operational strategies to address field conditions and project needs.
Oversee routine equipment maintenance and coordinate repairs.
Address technical issues and liaise with maintenance personnel for advanced troubleshooting.
Prepare daily and weekly field logs covering drilling progress, equipment performance, and issues encountered.
Provide reports to higher management and participate in post-project reviews.
Mentor less experienced team members and share technical expertise and best practices.