Drilling Operative

About Lloyds Datum, SOCOTEC and the Infrastructure Division

Lloyds Datum Group was acquired by SOCOTEC UK & Ireland in 2025 and operates as part of the Infrastructure Division. Lloyds Datum and the wider Infrastructure team delivers essential technical services that ensure the safety, quality and compliance of major construction and civil engineering projects across the UK & Ireland. We provide independent asset and construction services to test, survey, assess, report and monitor client requirements.

We do this for construction companies and owners & operators of assets across the complete lifecycle of projects and assets. We work on some of the biggest infrastructure projects across building, rail, roads, airports, nuclear and transmission & distribution.

We verify strength, durability and performance of key materials, geotechnics, civils, foundations, pavements and structures. Our experts use industry leading methods and advanced technology to support infrastructure projects from initial site investigation through construction and long term performance, helping clients manage risk, meet regulatory standards and build safer, more resilient assets.

Your expertise deserves recognition. Alongside a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, an electric car scheme (where applicable), employee recognition programmes, family‑friendly support, exclusive retail discounts, employee assistance programmes, and an enhanced company pension. SOCOTEC UK & Ireland are proud to be Disability Confident accredited.

As a Drilling Operative, you will play a key role within the Civils & Drilling operations team  will be supporting drilling activities for rock anchoring, micro piling, site investigation and testing across a diverse portfolio of high‑profile infrastructure projects. This work will involve the installation of Self‑Drill Hollow Bars and DTHH Drilling. The position is based in Northern Ireland with projects all over the NI and ROI.

Install Self‑Drill Hollow Bars and DTHH Drilling rigs as part of drilling operations for rock anchoring, micro piling, site investigation and testing on large infrastructure projects.

• Has extensive experience within the drilling and construction industry
• Has experience operating small to medium size drilling rigs
• Has experience adhering to company and industry health & safety standards
• Has experience dealing with logistical issues and problems on site
• Is self‑motivated and able to work under own initiative
• Is able to interpret construction drawings and designs
• Is able to undertake routine maintenance and minor repairs to machinery on request
• Is able to travel extensively and stay overnight as needed to meet customer needs
• Is able to meet the physical demands of the job
• Has a valid CSCS/CPCS/Safepass card
• Has a full UK driving licence