Driller - Driller Assistants - Future Opportunities

smeinc; Knoxville (TN); On-site; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health & wellness programs

Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

401(k) with company matching

Competitive compensation

PTO with rollover

Job summary

S&ME is hiring Driller and Driller Assistant positions for its Field Exploration team across our footprint. Roles involve hands-on drilling, soil/rock sampling, and safety-focused field work.

You will work with a collaborative field crew, gain exposure to geotechnical procedures, and travel as needed to project sites. CDL/HAZWOPER credentials are valued and growth opportunities abound.

Qualifications

• Education: High School Diploma or GED.
• Experience: 0-3 years in geotechnical drilling or related field.
• Certifications/Licensure: HAZWOPER certification or ability to obtain within 6 months; CDL required for Drillers.

Responsibilities

• Assist with drilling operations for soil and rock samples using various techniques.
• Set up, operate, and maintain drilling rigs and machinery.
• Perform geotechnical tests and collect field data.
• Follow safety protocols at all times.
• Collaborate with team to meet project goals and deadlines.

Skills

Safety

Teamwork

Dependability

Willingness to travel

Education

High School Diploma or GED

HAZWOPER certification or ability to obtain within 6 months

CDL required for Drillers

Tools

Drilling rigs

Job description

Driller and Driller Assistant - Future Opportunities

Requisition Number: 2026-2190-00

Are you passionate about making a meaningful impact on infrastructure projects? S&ME is seeking motivated Drillers and Driller Assistants to join our Field Exploration team across multiple locations within our footprint. This role offers hands‑on field experience, opportunities for growth, and the chance to contribute directly to projects that strengthen communities nationwide.

Visit the Life tab on our LinkedIn profile to learn more about life at S&ME.

What You Will Do:

As a Driller or Driller Assistant, you will support field exploration activities by assisting with drilling operations, collecting soil and rock samples, and ensuring work is completed safely and efficiently in outdoor environments. You'll work closely with a collaborative field team while gaining experience with specialized equipment and geotechnical procedures.

• Assist with and/or conduct drilling operations for soil and rock samples using various drilling techniques and equipment




• Assist in the setup, operation, and maintenance of drilling rigs and associated machinery




• Perform geotechnical testing and data collection in the field




• Follow and enforce safety protocols and procedures at all times




• Collaborate with team members to meet project goals and deadlines

Who We're Looking For:

We're looking for dependable, safety-focused individuals who take pride in quality workmanship and operate with integrity. You enjoy hands‑on, outdoor work, are adaptable to changing environments, and thrive as part of a team. A willingness to travel, learn new skills, and work year‑round in the field is essential for success in this role.

Qualifications:

• Education: High School Diploma or GED




• Experience: 0-3 years of experience in geotechnical drilling or a related field



• 
  

  Certifications/Professional Licensure:

  
  
  
  

  • HAZWOPER certification or the ability to obtain within 6 months

  
  

  • Commercial Driver's License (CDL) required for Drillers

  
  
  
  


• 
  

  Key Competencies:

  
  
  
  

  • Commitment to safety and quality workmanship

  
  

  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team

  
  

  • Dependability and strong work ethic

  
  

  • Willingness to travel with overnight stays (paid hotels and per diem)

  
  
  
  

Working Conditions and Physical Demands:

This role involves hands‑on work in outdoor environments, and with Company‑provided Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), you'll need to be comfortable with:

• Working outdoors year‑round in varying weather conditions




• Walking over rough and uneven terrain




• Standing up to 8 hours per day, occasionally up to 12 hours




• Routinely lifting and carrying 40-50 lbs. (field samples and equipment)




• Maneuvering field equipment safely on uneven ground and active construction sites




• Traveling out‑of‑town (typically overnight) as project needs arise




• Working outside of normal business hours when required

We Are S&ME:

At S&ME, we're committed to your growth‑professionally and personally. For over 50 years, we've delivered innovative solutions in geotechnical, civil, environmental, and construction materials engineering. Our team of 1,000+ employee‑owners across 10+ states works collaboratively to create lasting, positive impacts in our communities. With employee ownership at our foundation, we invest in each other's success and put our people first in everything from safety to opportunity.

What We Offer:

Comprehensive Health & Wellness Programs

• Medical, Dental & Vision Plans with HSA and FSA options




• Well‑being programs to support you and your family

Ownership & Financial Perks

• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)




• 401(k) with company matching




• Competitive compensation

Work-Life Balance & Career Development

• PTO with rollover options and Paid Maternity & Paternity Leave




• Tuition Reimbursement and Credential Incentive Program




• Company vehicle with gas card for project‑based work




• $2,000-$5,000 referral bonuses




• And more

If you're passionate about making an impact and want to work with a firm committed to its employees and delivering quality service to clients, we'd love to hear from you.

This is a full‑time position with competitive pay based on experience. Candidates must meet the requirements of the company's Fleet Management Program, Substance Policy, and Reference Check Program. Only candidates with acceptable employment eligibility verification (I-9) will be considered. Visa assistance is not provided. S&ME reserves the right to fill this position with an internal or external candidate at any time. No candidate/recruiter calls, personal calls, or walk‑ins are accepted.