Lead Driller

Company Overview

Geotechnical Engineering Ltd (GEL) is the UK’s largest independent ground investigation contractor, delivering specialist pre-construction services for over 60 years. Due to continued growth, we are recruiting an experienced Lead Rotary Driller to join our expanding drilling department.

This is an excellent opportunity to join an industry-leading business with a strong reputation for technical excellence and Health & Safety, working on high-profile projects across the UK and abroad.

The Role

• Lead and operate rotary drilling rigs safely and efficiently
• Supervise and mentor Assistant Drillers on site
• Travel throughout the UK (staying away as required)
• Oversee mobilisation and demobilisation of specialist plant and equipment
• Monitor drilling progress and adapt techniques to varying ground conditions
• Ensure high-quality borehole construction and installations
• Carry out routine equipment inspections and basic maintenance
• Work closely with Site Engineers and Project Managers to deliver projects on schedule
• Liaise professionally with clients on site
• Maintain strict compliance with health, safety and company procedures

Projects range from short-term site visits to multi-week programmes across highways, rail, substations, refineries, reservoirs and other major infrastructure schemes.

What we offer

• Competitive salary
• Overnight allowance
• 32 days holiday (including bank holidays)
• Company pension & sick pay
• Christmas shutdown
• Recruitment referral bonus up to £1,500
• Ongoing professional development and industry-recognised qualifications

Requirements

• Proven experience operating rotary drilling rigs (ground investigation)
• NVQ L2 Lead Driller
• Familiar with GBS, SPTs, UT100s and further GI testing methods
• Strong leadership and team supervision skills
• Full manual UK driving licence (C/C1 preferred)
• Right to work in the UK
• Must live within commuting distance of Gloucester (all work starts/finishes at depot)

GEL is an equal opportunities employer.

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Referral programme
• Sick pay

Work Location: In person