Lead Soil Driller / Senior Geotechnical Driller

GESTRA Engineering, Inc.; Madison (WI); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, Dental, Vision with Employer Contribution

4% Retirement Match

Paid time off

Professional Development/CDL Assistance

Job summary

GESTRA Engineering, Inc. is seeking a Lead Soil Driller in Madison, WI. This role requires outstanding proficiency in operating geotechnical drill rigs and overseeing a crew. The successful candidate will collect vital subsurface data while upholding high safety and quality standards.

Preferred qualifications include at least 1 year of soil drilling experience, a high school diploma, and effective communication skills. The position offers benefits like health insurance, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.

Qualifications

• At least 1+ year of soil drilling or relevant field experience.
• Proficiency in heavy machine operation in outdoor environments year-round.
• Must pass a pre-employment drug screening and a WisDOT physical.

Responsibilities

• Expertly operate geotechnical drill rigs.
• Collect and classify soil and rock samples.
• Maintain accurate field paperwork and logs.

Skills

Soil drilling

Heavy machine operation

Clear communication

Field leadership

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Geotechnical drill rigs

CPT testing equipment

Monitoring well installation tools

Job description

Lead Soil Driller / Senior Geotechnical Driller

Madison, WI.

Full Time

GESTRA Engineering, Inc. is a full-service geotechnical engineering firm seeking experienced geotechnical drillers, environmental drillers, and Geoprobe operators. We are looking for leaders capable of operating diverse drill rigs and managing field crews on high-profile projects throughout the region. If you are a hardworking professional looking for steady work with a strong team culture, we want you on our crew.

About the Role

As a Lead Driller, you will be responsible for the operation of geotechnical drill rigs and the oversight of a two-person crew. You will ensure the successful collection of critical subsurface data while maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality in the field.

Schedule: Typically Monday–Friday, 7:00 am to 4:00 pm. Occasional evening and Saturday work is required based on project needs. Some out-of-town travel may be necessary.

Key Responsibilities

Rig Operation: Expertly operate geotechnical drill rigs (hollow stem auger, mud rotary, air rotary, and rock coring).

Sample Collection: Collect and accurately classify soil and rock samples; perform in-situ testing including CPT, pressuremeter, and rock dilatometer.

Field Installation: Install monitoring wells and various geotechnical instrumentation according to project specs.

Crew Leadership: Lead and work alongside a drill crew, providing direction and ensuring efficient daily operations.

Documentation: Maintain accurate field paperwork, borehole logs, and DOT logs to track project progress and compliance.

Maintenance: Perform routine equipment maintenance and ensure all drilling tools are in safe, working order.

Requirements

Experience: At least 1+ year of soil drilling or relevant field experience; proficiency in heavy machine operation in outdoor environments year-round.

Education: High school diploma or equivalent.

Physical Demands: Ability to lift 50–80 pounds unassisted and perform rigorous physical labor in all weather conditions.

Compliance: Must pass a pre-employment drug screening and a WisDOT physical.

Licensing: Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record; ability to obtain a DOT Medical Card within 30 days.

Communication: Clear and concise English communication skills (written and verbal) for accurate record-keeping and team coordination.

Certifications & Preferences

Driving: Class A or B CDL is strongly preferred.

Technical Expertise: Prior experience with environmental, angle, or barge drilling.

Specialized Testing: Experience with in-situ testing or advanced instrumentation is a plus.

Growth Mindset: A strong desire to learn and expand your expertise in the geotechnical field.

Why Join Us?

Paid Training: We invest in your growth through professional certifications and CDL assistance.

Steady Work: Enjoy regional project variety with a focus on local impact and a strong team-first culture.

Career Advancement: Gain invaluable experience in civil engineering and construction management.

Impact: Your work provides the foundational data for major infrastructure and construction projects across the region.

Health, Dental, Vision with Employer Contribution

Life, Retirement, STD/LTD benefits are available.

Paid time off (Vacation, Sick pay, etc.) available

4% Retirement Match

Professional Development/CDL Assistance