Drilling Operations Manager - Geotechnical & Environmental Drilling

Position Overview

The Drilling Operations Manager is responsible for day-to-day management of drilling crews, equipment, scheduling, safety, and production, while coordinating closely with engineering staff and clients to deliver high-quality field services on time and on budget.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and schedule drilling operations, crews, and subcontractors as needed
• Oversee field execution of geotechnical and environmental test borings, sampling, and documentation
• Ensure compliance with safety requirements, jobsite protocols, and company standards
• Cook logistics: permits, utility clearances, access, traffic control, and mobilization
• Maintain drilling rigs, support vehicles, and tooling; plan preventative maintenance and repairs
• Track production, costs, and job progress; provide updates and reporting to leadership
• Support recruiting, training, and performance management for drillers and helpers
• Work with project teams to meet scope, quality, and schedule requirements
• Assist with estimating and planning for upcoming drilling assignments

Requirements

• Proven experience managing geotechnical and/or environmental drilling operations
• Strong knowledge of drilling methods, sampling procedures, and field documentation
• Demonstrated ability to lead crews and manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Excellent safety leadership and familiarity with OSHA and jobsite best practices
• Equipment and maintenance management experience
• Strong communication skills with clients, field staff, and office teams
• CDL preferred (or ability to obtain within a reasonable time)

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting transportation/public agency projects (PennDOT/Turnpike/DGS)
• Understanding of geotechnical sampling (SPT, rock coring, etc.) and environmental drilling approaches
• DOT physical and clean driving record

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation based on experience
• Benefits package (details provided during interview)
• Company vehicle/allowance (if applicable)
• Long-term opportunity with an established Pennsylvania firm

How to Apply

Email your resume and a short introduction to careers@awkengineers.com. Please include your drilling background, management experience, and salary requirements.

AWK Consulting Engineers, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.