SKILLS & EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

• Previous experience in civil engineering or utility installation would be advantageous
• Mechanical or Agricutural background
• Experience of operating tractors/lorries
• Full UK driving licence
• Self-motivated, safety-conscious, and able to work independently or within a team

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

• Minimum 2 years of experience as a Mud Engineer or in a similar fluid management role
• Strong understanding of bentonite-based and polymer drilling fluids
• Experience working in HDD, oil & gas, or geotechnical environments preferred
• Competence in fluid testing and managing returns in various soil types
• Full UK driving licence
• Practical, organised, and detail-focused with a strong commitment to safety

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL APPLICANTS:

• Willingness to travel across the UK on a regular basis
• Legal right to work in the UK (no sponsorship available)
• Positive attitude and strong work ethic
• Flexibility and readiness to work in changing site environments

ROLE: DIRECTIONAL DRILLING OPERATIVES & MUD ENGINEERS

Location: Various Sites throughout the UK
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Nicol of Skene, a well-established civil engineering construction company based in Scotland, is expanding our specialist Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) team. We are currently seeking Directional Drilling Operatives and Mud Engineers to join us on a full-time, permanent basis. Full training in the role will be offered to the right candidates
As one of the leading HDD contractors in the region, we deliver complex trenchless installations with professionalism and precision. Due to continued growth, we’re offering a fantastic opportunity to be part of a specialist team working on major projects across the UK.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Operate and maintain HDD equipment
• Carry out pilot bores, back-reaming, and product installation
• Conduct pre-start checks, daily maintenance, and minor repairs
• Interpret utility drawings and locate existing services
• Ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and to a high standard
• Work closely with the mud engineer and support crew during drilling operations
• Complete daily job sheets and reports

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Prepare and manage drilling fluid systems for HDD operations
• Monitor fluid properties and adjust additives as necessary
• Maintain accurate fluid logs and ensure drilling parameters are optimised
• Assist with equipment setup, fluid mixing, and site maintenance
• Support the drilling operative with troubleshooting drilling challenges
• Ensure environmental compliance and responsible fluid disposal