Senior Driller

ECS Group of Companies; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

ECS Group of Companies in Houston, TX seeks a Senior Driller to lead field geotechnical drilling operations, mentor junior staff, and ensure safe, efficient site execution across projects of moderate complexity.

You will operate drilling equipment, collect subsurface data, and maintain records while traveling for out-of-town assignments as needed. A strong safety mindset is essential.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED required.
• 5 years of related experience.
• Class A CDL preferred (if driving for ECS subsidiary).
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with GPS systems.
• Hands-on drilling equipment experience (drill rigs, push rigs).
• Advanced mechanical aptitude including hydraulic systems.

Responsibilities

• Performs drilling operations, including borings and Geoprobe work.
• Operates Geoprobe equipment to collect soil samples and CPT data.
• Operates drilling equipment (rotary, churn, pneumatic) and adjusts parameters.
• Monitors drilling progress and changes drill bits as needed.
• Locates boring positions using maps, plans, or GPS systems.
• Records all required drilling data accurately.
• Reports issues to Project Manager or Supervisor.
• Maintains equipment and performs routine maintenance.
• Troubleshoots mechanical, hydraulic, and basic electrical issues.
• Plans daily activities to meet productivity goals.
• Completes timesheets and field documentation promptly.
• Submits field reports and data per standards.
• Cares for and cleans vehicles and tools.
• Trains and mentors Driller Helpers and Drillers.
• Maintains safe and compliant work environment.

Skills

Excellent communication

Interpersonal skills

Advanced mechanical aptitude

Reading maps

Troubleshooting

Safety awareness

Education

High School diploma or GED

Tools

GPS systems

Geoprobe equipment

Drill rigs experience

Job description

The Senior Driller performs advanced geotechnical drilling operations on projects of moderate complexity, including operating drilling equipment, collecting subsurface data, and ensuring safe and efficient field execution. This role works with significant independence and is responsible for mentoring and training junior staff. The Senior Driller operates primarily in the field, including out-oftown assignments, and maintains a positive customer service attitude while exemplifying ECS Core Values.

Responsibilities

• Performs drilling operations, including borings and Geoprobe work
• Operates Geoprobe equipment to collect soil samples and Cone Penetration Test (CPT) data
• Operates drilling equipment (rotary, churn, pneumatic) and adjusts drilling parameters such as bit weight and rotational speed
• Monitors drilling progress, changes drill bits, and removes debris as needed
• Locates boring positions using maps, plans, or GPS systems
• Records all required drilling data accurately
• Reports project-specific issues to the Project Manager or Supervisor
• Performs routine maintenance on drill rigs and support trucks and reports repair needs
• Troubleshoots mechanical, hydraulic, and basic electrical issues
• Loads drill rigs and support vehicles with required supplies each day
• Plans daily activities to meet productivity goals set by the Drilling Supervisor or Office Manager
• Completes timesheets and field documentation promptly and accurately
• Submits field reports and data in accordance with company standards
• Cares for and cleans assigned vehicles, drilling equipment, and tools
• Maintains professional behavior and quality standards
• Trains and mentors Driller Helpers and Drillers
• Maintains a safe, healthy, and environmentally compliant work environment, including proper use of personal protective equipment and handling of hazardous materials
• Performs other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED required
• 5 years of related experience
• Class A CDL drivers license is preferred for this position
• If driving for, or on behalf of, any ECS subsidiary, a valid driver's license is required.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Experience with GPS systems
• Hands-on experience with drill rigs, push rigs, drilling procedures, and sampling methods
• Advanced mechanical aptitude, including experience with hydraulic system repairs
• Ability to read maps, follow directions, and interpret field data
• Advanced knowledge of drilling procedures and sampling methods
• Familiarity with state and federal driving and drilling regulatory requirements
• Ability to travel overnight and work non-standard schedules as required

Military Requirements

• The following US Military ranks would qualify for this position:
  • E-4

ECS Group of Companies (ECS) was founded in 1988 with the goal to raise the standards of professional engineering consulting. Today, we are a leader in geotechnical, construction materials, environmental and building science + infrastructure consulting services. We are employee-owned with more than 3,200 employees in 125 offices and testing facilities coast to coast. ECS is currently ranked #60 in Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms (April 2026), #148 in Engineering News-Record’s Top 200 Environmental Firms (October 2025) and #38 in Zweig Group’s Hot Firm List (June 2026). For additional information about ECS, visit: www.ecslimited.com. ECS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To learn more, click here.