Geotechnical Drill Rig Operator

Pacific Drilling Co. is seeking an experienced, safety-focused Geotechnical Drill Rig Operator to join our field operations team.

We are a long-established, licensed, bonded, and insured geotechnical and environmental drilling contractor serving Southern California and beyond. Our Drill Rig Operators are responsible for safely and efficiently operating drilling equipment, leading field crews, maintaining equipment, communicating professionally with clients, and ensuring that every project meets Pacific Drilling’s standards.

We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, steady work, and opportunities for advancement.

Everything we do at Pacific Drilling is guided by four core values:

1. Dedicated to the Process
We follow established procedures, prioritize safety, maintain our equipment, document our work accurately, and do the job correctly from start to finish.

2. Dedicated to the Client
Our operators are often the face of Pacific Drilling in the field. We communicate clearly, remain professional, understand our clients’ project requirements, and work to provide dependable, high-quality service.

3. Dedicated to the Team
Successful drilling requires teamwork. Our operators lead by example, communicate effectively, support their crew, and contribute to a safe and productive work environment.

4. Extra Effort Every Time
We believe the details matter. From preparing and maintaining equipment to keeping a clean jobsite, supporting a teammate, and taking care of a client, we expect our team to go the extra mile.

The Geotechnical Drill Rig Operator is responsible for safely operating and maintaining multiple types of drilling equipment while completing geotechnical and environmental drilling projects in a variety of terrains and jobsite conditions.

Operators are expected to understand project requirements, supervise and direct their field crew, communicate with clients and project representatives, maintain accurate field documentation, troubleshoot equipment issues, and ensure work is performed safely and efficiently.

This position reports to Pacific Drilling’s Managing Equipment Operators, Operations Manager, and President.

Qualified candidates should have professional experience with multiple drilling methods, including:

• Air rotary
• HQ rock coring

Additional experience with the following is highly desirable and considered a plus:

• Seismic testing
• Soil vapor and gas probe installation
• Packer testing

• Safely operate Pacific Drilling drill rigs, support vehicles, and associated equipment
• Follow all company safety procedures, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and project-specific requirements
• Properly use and maintain required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
• Lead, supervise, and provide direction to Assistant Operators and Drilling Apprentices
• Conduct pre-job tailgate safety meetings and ensure required safety documentation is completed
• Review project requirements with the client or field representative before drilling begins
• Confirm sampling requirements, including sample types, depths, and intervals
• Maintain clear and professional communication with clients regarding project status and progress
• Complete accurate daily driller’s logs, time sheets, work orders, and other required field documentation
• Accurately document all billable labor, equipment, materials, and drilling activities
• Confirm completion of drilling activities with the client or field representative
• Perform and oversee jobsite cleanup and restoration, leaving the site in the same or better condition than it was prior to drilling
• Perform routine equipment inspections, cleaning, preventative maintenance, and basic troubleshooting
• Ensure company-owned…