Geotechnical Driller

Schnabel; Walnut Creek (CA); On-site; USD 87,422 - 96,432; Full time

Job summary

Schnabel is hiring a Driller in Walnut Creek, California, to assist in constructing specialty underground structures. The role involves operating drill rigs for tieback anchors and micropiles while complying with safety regulations. Candidates should have at least 2 years of experience and a high school diploma. The position offers pay rates between $63.46 and $70.00 per hour, reflecting the company's dedication to safety and employee welfare. Opportunities for advancement are available through hard work. Union benefits apply.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years operating drill rigs proficiently.
• Ability to work in a busy and noisy construction environment.
• Current certification for vertical and/or tieback drill rig preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate drill rigs and associated equipment safely.
• Follow company safety regulations.
• Complete inspection and maintenance logs as required.

Skills

Operating drill rigs

Safety compliance

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Drill rigs

Safety equipment

Job description

THE COMPANY

Schnabel is a nationally recognized specialty contractor with over 65 years of experience in geostructural design-build and underground construction. With a portfolio of thousands of successful projects across the country, we are known for delivering smart, safe, and cost-effective solutions to complex engineering challenges. We specialize in advanced earth retention systems and other innovative geostructural techniques that create stable, lasting foundations for buildings, infrastructure, and other critical structures. At Schnabel, we combine technical expertise with a hands‑on approach to ensure every project starts on solid ground.

ROLE

Schnabel is seeking a Driller to assist with the building of specialty underground structures. Our goal is to find a Geotechnical Drill Operator or equipment operator with experience in the safe operation of tieback and micropile drills (Klemm, Comacchio, Hutte) related to geotechnical construction. Heavy preference to those that can operate vertical drill rigs (Bauer / Liebherr).

As a driller you will work with your project manager and field supervisor to install tieback anchors, soldier beams, micropiles, and more.

Our typical scope of work includes installation of piles, lagging, walers, tiebacks, and braces for support of excavation projects. We also take on challenging projects with underpinning, grouting, tunneling, and unique structural support as part of our scope. Candidates having direct construction experience and familiarity with our company’s traditional scope of work are preferred.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Be responsible for safe and proper operation or drill rigs and associated equipment.
• Follow all of Schnabel’s safety regulations.
• Complete inspection and maintenance logs, and documentation as required.
• Record drilling parameters, production data, and daily progress reports, while maintaining open and clear communication to job site supervisor.
• Clean drill rigs, trucks, and equipment.
• Clear and maintain a clean work environment without debris or potential hazards.
• Work closely with site leadership to ensure that scope of work is being met within a timely schedule and meeting production rates.
• Manage your scope of work appropriately to minimize job cost.
• Always wear appropriate PPE, as assigned by job site supervisor.
• Exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and dust.

REQUIREMENTS

• Minimum of 2 years of documented experience operating drill rigs proficiently.
• High level of focus in a construction environment that is very busy and noisy.
• Current certification for vertical and/or tieback drill rig or willing to obtain certification.
• Focus, stand, walk, kneel, climb, bend, and work from heights or within confined space during assigned shift.
• Ability to pass pre‑employment drug test.
• Local and regional travel as required for projects.
• Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds of materials over rough terrain.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Driver’s license, reliable transportation, and a safe driving record.
• Follow all safety procedures, use proper protective equipment, and help maintain a safe job site by identifying and reporting potential hazards.

SAFETY

Support the company’s safety and risk management objectives by adhering to established procedures, proactively identifying and addressing potential risks, and contributing to the achievement of safety goals through the use of metrics and continuous improvement efforts.

Don’t hurt yourself, don’t hurt anyone else, and don’t let anyone hurt you; a simple philosophy that has been adopted at Schnabel. We live by this belief to provide a safe and healthy workplace for all our employees and subcontractors.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

Pay Ranges $63.46 - $70.00+ per hour

Schnabel is a union contractor and as such, your benefits are made available based on your union affiliation. Through hard work and reliability there will be opportunities to advance within the company.

Schnabel is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is fully committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran or military status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable laws. We are an E-Verify employer.