1

Geotechnical Drilling Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Braun Intertec is seeking a geotechnical drilling assistant to join our Tyler, TX office. The Drilling Assistant has primary responsibility for performing subsurface investigations for geotechnical ...

Braun Intertec is seeking a geotechnical drilling assistant to join our Dallas, TX or Tyler, TX office. The Drilling Assistant has primary responsibility for performing subsurface investigations for ...

Drilling Assistant

Omaha, NE · On-site

$24 - $50/hr

This position works alongside experienced drilling professionals to assist with soil and rock ... Support soil, rock, and groundwater sampling operations for geotechnical and environmental ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Geotechnical Drilling Assistant information

See salary details

$34.5K

$107.6K

$172K

How much do geotechnical drilling assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for geotechnical drilling assistant in the United States is $107,595.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,000.00 and $130,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a geotechnical drilling assistant?

Geotechnical Drilling Assistants are professionals who support drilling operations for geotechnical investigations. They help set up, operate, and maintain drilling equipment used to collect soil, rock, and groundwater samples from beneath the surface. Their work is essential for providing data about ground conditions, which engineers and construction teams use to design foundations, roads, and other infrastructure safely. The role often involves physical labor, traveling to different sites, and following strict safety protocols.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a geotechnical drilling assistant?

As a Geotechnical Drilling Assistant, your daily tasks will usually involve setting up drilling equipment, assisting with borehole drilling, handling soil and rock samples, and maintaining a clean and safe work site. You’ll work closely with drill operators and geotechnical engineers, ensuring samples are properly labeled and transported for analysis. The role often requires physical labor, attention to safety protocols, and adaptability to various outdoor environments. Teamwork and communication are essential, as you’ll coordinate with other crew members to meet project deadlines and resolve challenges on-site.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a geotechnical drilling assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Geotechnical Drilling Assistant, you need a basic understanding of geotechnical principles, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training. Familiarity with drilling rigs, soil sampling equipment, and data logging systems is commonly required. Strong teamwork, reliability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for working safely and efficiently on-site. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure accurate data collection, maintain safety standards, and support project success in challenging field environments.

What is the difference between Geotechnical Drilling Assistant vs Geotechnical Technician?

AspectGeotechnical Drilling AssistantGeotechnical Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; some roles may require technical certifications
Work EnvironmentFieldwork at drilling sites, outdoor environmentsField and laboratory work, site inspections, data collection
Job FocusAssisting with drilling operations, equipment setup, site prepCollecting soil and rock samples, data analysis, report preparation

While both roles involve fieldwork in geotechnical projects, the Geotechnical Drilling Assistant primarily supports drilling operations and equipment handling. In contrast, the Geotechnical Technician focuses on sample collection, data analysis, and reporting. Both roles are essential in geotechnical investigations but differ in responsibilities and skill requirements.

More about Geotechnical Drilling Assistant jobs

What cities are hiring for Geotechnical Drilling Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Geotechnical Drilling Assistant job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Geotechnical Drilling jobs?

The most popular types of Geotechnical Drilling jobs are:

What states have the most Geotechnical Drilling Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Geotechnical Drilling Assistant jobs include:

Infographic showing various Geotechnical Drilling Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,595 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Geotechnical Drilling Assistant

ESP Associates

Fayetteville, AR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

McClelland Consulting Engineers (MCE), an ESP Company, is a regional, multidisciplined engineering consulting firm with more than 160 employees throughout four offices in Little Rock, Fayetteville, Fort Smith, and Rogers. We are focused on providing exceptional customer service by committing our time, energy and professionalism to complete projects that enhance the quality of life, improve infrastructure and offer positive economic impacts to improve the communities where we serve, live and work.

Summary

Primarily in the field on a project site, the Drilling Assistant will be expected to perform work year-round, in varying weather conditions. The Geotechnical Drilling Assistant will perform subsurface exploration duties under the direction of the Geotechnical Driller. Drill methods may include auger drilling, mud rotary drilling, and diamond bit core techniques. Work may also include the installation of instruments such as piezometers, monitor wells and inclinometers. Work as part of a multi-person team on projects. Anticipated daily tasks include navigating and locating drilling points, conduct site reconnaissance, loading/unloading tooling, materials and samples, classifying soil and rock samples, performing routine maintenance and basic repairs on drilling equipment. Depending on workload and client demand, this position may be required to work nights and weekends. Overnight travel is common.

Responsibilities

  • Load tooling and materials
  • Assist in drilling operations and instrumentation and monitoring well installation.
  • Collect soil and rock samples. Log field data.
  • Perform routine repairs and maintenance.
  • Perform basic navigation and site reconnaissance.
  • Drive a medium-duty truck and trailer.
  • Learn to inspect and how to maintain equipment.
  • Follow safety rules, guidelines, and standards for all projects. Participate in pre-task planning. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
  • Be responsible for maintaining quality standards on all projects.

Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Can expect to work with hand tools and some chemicals for drilling.
  • Must be able to travel.
  • Able to load, unload, and move large equipment (50-80 pounds), materials, and tools.
  • Candidates must be able to pass a drug screen, background check, and have a satisfactory driving record in accordance with the company’s driving (MVR) policy.

Preferred

  • Experience in diesel mechanics, welding, heavy equipment operations, and construction.
  • Class A or B commercial driver’s license (CDL)

Travel: Overnight travel is common.

MCE offers an excellent employee benefits package including:

  • Competitive compensation with yearly performance reviews.
  • 401(k) (Traditional & Roth plans) with a guaranteed employer match of 100% up to the first 3% and 50% on the next 2% (eligibility at beginning of the quarter following 3 months’ employment)
  • PTO (Paid Time Off) & 9 Paid Holidays
  • Tiered Health, Vision & Dental Insurance Options (eligibility after 30 days)
  • Short-Term Disability Insurance (MCE self-insured)
  • Long-Term Disability Insurance (Employer paid)
  • Life Insurance and AD&D Insurance
  • Flexible Spending Account & Limited Flexible Spending Account
  • HSA Savings Account
  • Additional Optional Insurances Available