ESSENTIAL SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

• Proven experience in rotary drilling operations, with hands-on experience in ground investigation drilling.
• Understanding of soil mechanics, geology, and in-situ testing, and insulations.
• Strong understanding of drilling techniques, including open-hole drilling, core drilling, and wireline coring.
• Practical knowledge of geotechnical investigations, soil mechanics, and geological materials.
• Ability to operate and maintain rotary drilling rigs and associated equipment.
• Experience with daily operational planning, team supervision, and performance management.
• Knowledge of HSE regulations, CDM requirements, and site risk assessment procedures.
• Experience in working on large infrastructure, utilities, or construction projects.

DESIRABLE SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

• NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Land Drilling, or equivalent geotechnical drilling qualifications.
• First Aid certification, including emergency response training.
• Experience in foundation piling, embankment stabilisation, and slope stability.
• Knowledge of ground investigation logging software, data collection apps, or on-site digital tools.

ROLE PURPOSE

The Lead Rotary Drilling Operative plays a vital role in the safe, efficient, and high-quality execution of geotechnical site investigation works. This position is responsible for operating drilling rigs, supervising on-site drilling teams, maintaining equipment, and ensuring compliance with health, safety, and environmental (HSE) standards.
As a hands-on leader, the role ensures drilling activities are executed with precision, promoting technical excellence, operational efficiency, and a commitment to safety. This role also supports the development of less experienced operatives through on-the-job training and mentoring.

HEALTH & SAFETY RESPONSIBILITIES

As the Lead Rotary Drilling Operative, you are responsible for ensuring that all drilling activities are carried out safely. This includes:

• Conducting daily safety briefings and toolbox talks.
• Ensuring all site-specific risk controls are implemented.
• Reporting incidents, near-misses, and unsafe conditions.
• Leading by example in PPE compliance and safe working practices.

HEALTH & SAFETY RESPONSIBILITIES

As the Lead Rotary Drilling Operative, you are responsible for ensuring that all drilling activities are carried out safely. This includes:

• Conducting daily safety briefings and toolbox talks.
• Ensuring all site-specific risk controls are implemented.
• Reporting incidents, near-misses, and unsafe conditions.
• Leading by example in PPE compliance and safe working practices.