Assistant drilling operatives

Dunelm Geotechnical & Environmental Ltd; North East; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

Dunelm Geotechnical & Environmental Ltd is seeking an Assistant Drilling Operatives to join the on-site team in Durham. You will support drilling crews on site, help prepare and load equipment, assist with drilling rig setup and operation, and keep tools in safe working condition.

Role includes handling samples, recording basic site data, and maintaining tidy, safe work areas while following health and environmental procedures.

Qualifications

• Ability to work safely on construction and investigation sites.
• Basic mechanical skills for tools and equipment handling.
• Teamwork and clear communication with drilling staff.
• Willingness to perform manual labor in all weather.

Responsibilities

• Support drilling teams on ground investigation projects.
• Prepare and load equipment, assist with rig setup and operation.
• Maintain tools and machinery in a safe condition.
• Handle samples and record basic site data.
• Keep work areas clean, organized and compliant with safety rules.

Skills

Safety awareness

Mechanical aptitude

Teamwork

Communication

Attention to detail

Timekeeping

Driving licence

Willingness to travel

Manual labor

Job description

Company Description

Dunelm Geotechnical & Environmental Ltd has over 50 years of experience as a leader in ground investigation, delivering site investigation services across the UK at competitive prices. The company holds full accreditation for Quality, Environment, and Health and Safety, giving clients confidence in the reliability of its results. Dunelm’s highly qualified and experienced team, supported by in-house drilling services, provides an efficient and flexible service tailored to project requirements. In addition to ground investigation, Dunelm offers in-situ site testing for earthworks design and validation, as well as post-fieldwork monitoring, supporting a wide range of geotechnical and environmental projects.

Role Description

The Assistant Drilling Operatives role is a full-time, on-site position based in Durham. Day-to-day responsibilities include supporting drilling teams on ground investigation projects, preparing and loading equipment, assisting with the setup and operation of drilling rigs, and maintaining tools and machinery in a safe working condition. The role involves handling samples, recording basic site data, and ensuring work areas are kept clean and organized. Duties also include following health, safety, and environmental procedures, working outdoors in varying weather conditions, and collaborating closely with drilling operatives, engineers, and site supervisors to meet project timelines.

Qualifications

• Ability to work safely on construction and investigation sites, with awareness of health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and practical skills for handling tools, equipment, and machinery maintenance.
• Strong physical fitness and willingness to perform manual labor, including lifting, carrying, and working outdoors in all weather.
• Effective teamwork and communication skills, with the ability to follow instructions and support senior drilling staff.
• Good attention to detail for handling samples, recording information, and maintaining accurate site documentation.
• Reliable timekeeping, strong work ethic, and flexibility to travel to different sites as required.
• Full UK driving licence (or working towards one) is highly beneficial.
• Previous experience in construction, drilling, ground investigation, or related field is an advantage but not essential; relevant training will be provided.