Assistant Driller

Ground Control; Leeds; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A UK environmental services company is seeking an Assistant Driller in Leeds. You will work with a Lead Driller on ground investigation projects, assisting with drilling operations and site preparations. Candidates should be practical, reliable, and eager to learn, with some experience in drilling or fieldwork. The position offers competitive salary and training opportunities in a supportive environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits package

On-the-job training

Career progression opportunities

Qualifications

• Some experience in drilling, construction, or fieldwork environments.
• Understanding of safe working practices and HSE awareness.
• Good physical fitness and ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Willingness to travel nationally and work as part of a small team.
• Positive attitude and strong work ethic.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the operation of rotary drilling rigs and associated equipment.
• Support site setup, rig preparation, and borehole drilling.
• Collect and preserve soil and rock samples for laboratory testing.
• Promote safe working practices and follow all HSE policies.

Skills

Experience in drilling

HSE awareness

Good physical fitness

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Education

NVQ Level 2 in Land Drilling

Job description

Overview

Assistant Driller

Location: Leeds (with national travel)  
Salary: Competitive
Contract Type: Permanent

Ground Control Geotechnical Solutions (GCES) is expanding — and we’re looking for an enthusiastic and hardworking Assistant Driller to join our growing team.

At GCES, we deliver innovative, sustainable, and high-quality geotechnical services that support safe and efficient infrastructure projects across the UK. Our people are at the heart of everything we do — and we’re proud to offer a culture built on safety, teamwork, and environmental responsibility.

What You’ll Do

As an Assistant Driller, you’ll work alongside a Lead Driller to help deliver safe, efficient, and accurate ground investigation works. You’ll gain hands-on experience with rotary drilling equipment, learn valuable technical skills, and play a key role in collecting data that supports major construction and infrastructure projects.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Assisting in the operation of rotary drilling rigs and associated equipment
• Supporting site setup, rig preparation, and borehole drilling
• Handling, maintaining, and cleaning tools, rods, and consumables
• Collecting and preserving soil and rock samples for laboratory testing
• Helping install ground monitoring instruments such as standpipes and piezometers
• Conducting daily equipment checks and basic maintenance tasks
• Promoting safe working practices and following all HSE policies and procedures
• Working closely with your team to deliver high-quality results, on time and on budget

What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for someone who’s practical, reliable, and eager to learn. You’ll enjoy working outdoors, take pride in doing the job safely, and be keen to build a career in geotechnical drilling and ground investigation.

• Some experience in drilling, construction, or fieldwork environments
• Understanding of safe working practices and HSE awareness
• Good physical fitness and ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
• Willingness to travel nationally and work as part of a small team
• Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and attention to detail

Desirable:

• NVQ Level 2 in Land Drilling (or willingness to work towards it)
• Experience with geotechnical or site investigation projects
• First Aid or safety certifications
• Forklift or plant operation experience

What We Offer

Competitive salary and benefits package

On-the-job training and career progression opportunities

Exposure to exciting national infrastructure projects

A supportive, safety-first working environment

The opportunity to grow with a company committed to innovation and sustainability

About Us

Ground Control Geotechnical Solutions (GCES) is part of Ground Control Ltd, an award-winning UK business leading in environmental and infrastructure services.

Our mission is to deliver sustainable geotechnical excellence — helping to build the foundations for safer, stronger, and greener communities.

#INDHP

Equal Opportunities

At Ground Control, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone feels valued 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 and do not discriminate based on sex, age, disability, gender identity, marital status, pregnancy, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic. We actively support and promote an inclusive culture, ensuring fair and equitable treatment throughout the recruitment process and beyond.