Assistant Driller

Ground Control; Greater London; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Job summary

Ground Control in Dartford is seeking an Assistant Driller to support geotechnical drilling operations on site, learning from experienced drillers and building a long-term career in geotechnical drilling.

This hands-on role keeps you outdoors, involves site preparation, rig setup, sampling, safety compliance, and the chance to gain NVQ qualifications in Land Drilling while progressing toward Lead Driller.

Qualifications

• Experience as an Assistant Driller or trainee on geotechnical sites.
• Basic knowledge of drilling techniques, soil mechanics, or geotechnical investigations.
• Strong commitment to health and safety.
• Ability to use hand tools and equipment safely.
• Physically fit and able to work outdoors in all weather.
• Desire to learn and progress to Lead Driller.

Responsibilities

• Support the Lead Driller with geotechnical drilling operations across a variety of sites
• Assist with site preparation, rig set-up, and borehole drilling activities
• Handle drilling tools, rods, and consumables safely and effectively
• Collect and manage soil and rock samples for testing and analysis
• Support the installation of monitoring equipment such as piezometers and standpipes
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organised working environment at all times
• Carry out daily pre-start checks and basic maintenance of equipment
• Follow HSE procedures, RAMS, and all site safety requirements

Skills

Drilling operations

Site safety awareness

Manual tool use

Reliable and motivated

Outdoor fitness

Learning mindset

Education

NVQ Level 2 in Land Drilling

Job description

Contract Type: Full time, permanent

Typical Hours: 40 hours per week, Monday–Friday

Build your skills. Work outdoors. Be part of something that keeps infrastructure moving

At Ground Control Geotechnical Solutions (GCES), we deliver innovative and sustainable geotechnical services that support safe and efficient infrastructure projects. This is a hands-on role where you’ll be out on site, learning from experienced drillers and building a long-term career in geotechnical drilling.

Location: Dartford/South West

Salary: Competitive

What You’ll Do

• Support the Lead Driller with geotechnical drilling operations across a variety of sites
• Assist with site preparation, rig set‑up, and borehole drilling activities
• Handle drilling tools, rods, and consumables safely and effectively
• Collect and manage soil and rock samples for testing and analysis
• Support the installation of monitoring equipment such as piezometers and standpipes
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organised working environment at all times
• Carry out daily pre-start checks and basic maintenance of equipment
• Follow HSE procedures, RAMS, and all site safety requirements

What you’ll get

• Structured training and clear progression into Lead Driller and supervisory roles
• Opportunity to gain NVQ qualifications in Land Drilling
• Hands-on experience across varied geotechnical and infrastructure projects
• Supportive team environment where you’ll learn from experienced professionals
• A role that keeps you active, outdoors, and constantly developing new skills

What we’re looking for

• Experience as an Assistant Driller
• Basic knowledge of drilling techniques, soil mechanics, or geotechnical investigations
• Good understanding of health & safety and safe working practices
• Ability to use hand tools and equipment safely and confidently
• Physically fit and comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions
• Reliable, hardworking, and motivated to learn and progress

Desirable

• NVQ Level 2 in Land Drilling (or willingness to work towards it)
• First Aid or other relevant safety certifications
• Plant, forklift, or other site-related tickets

Benefits;

• Competitive salary – aligned with your skills and experience
• Pension scheme – helping you plan for the future
• Recognition schemes – celebrating and rewarding great work
• Private GP service – fast, convenient access to medical support
• Life insurance – providing added peace of mind
• Holiday buy scheme – purchase up to 5 additional days of annual leave

Equal Opportunities Statement

At Ground Control, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. We believe that diversity drives innovation and success, and we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.

We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race (including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin), religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic as defined in the Equality Act 2010.

We actively support and promote an inclusive culture, ensuring fair and equitable treatment throughout the recruitment process and across all stages of employment, including training, development, promotion, pay, and termination. We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for disabled applicants and employees, and to creating a working environment free from discrimination, harassment, bullying, or victimisation.

We expect all colleagues to uphold our values of dignity, respect, and inclusion. We take a zero-tolerance approach to any form of discriminatory behaviour and are committed to continuous improvement through training, inclusive policies, and accountability at all levels.