Job Description

Position Available: Drill Rig Operator

100% travel - Texas and Surrounding States

Full-time

Company Overview

Pilot Foundation Services specializes in the construction of foundations for energy infrastructure, providing turn‑key concrete solutions for deep pier drilled shafts, large equipment pads, direct embedment, structure supports, site preparation, and more. Our clients are leaders in power transmission, substation/switchyard, and mid‑stream oil & gas construction. Established in 2021, Pilot Foundation Services has grown to become a trusted name in foundation service for Texas and surrounding areas. At Pilot Foundation Services we live and work to uphold the Company Values: Operate with Integrity, Expect Excellence and Commit to ensure positive outcomes for our team members and our clients.

Job Overview

The Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating drilling equipment to create deep foundation piers essential for energy infrastructure projects. Your expertise in operating heavy machinery, understanding drilling specifications, and unwavering commitment to safety will be critical to the success of our projects. The Operator will work closely with construction workers, other operators, and ground personnel to complete daily duties and will also be responsible for performing equipment inspections and minor repairs.

This role requires working in and around electrical substations and near high‑voltage transmission lines. Operators must be familiar with proper safety protocols, minimum safe distances, and hand signals in these environments. Safety is the utmost priority on all our job sites.

Responsibilities

• Operate deep pier foundation drill rigs and other heavy equipment (e.g., excavators, loaders, skid steers) in a safe and efficient manner.
• Read and interpret blueprints, site plans, and geotechnical reports to determine drilling locations and depths.
• Operate drilling controls to bore holes of specified depths and diameters, utilizing appropriate drilling methods and tooling based on soil and rock conditions.
• Monitor drilling operations, including spoil return, torque, and penetration rate, adjusting techniques as necessary.
• Work collaboratively with the site supervisor, engineers, and ground crew to ensure accurate hole placement and adherence to project requirements.
• Perform daily pre‑shift inspections and preventative maintenance on the drill rig and associated equipment.
• Troubleshoot and perform minor mechanical repairs in the field.
• Maintain accurate daily drilling logs and complete necessary reports (e.g., equipment inspections, safety reports).
• Adhere strictly to all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and site‑specific safety plans.
• Participate in safety meetings and pre‑job hazard analyses.
• Assist with rigging, setting casings, and placing rebar cages as needed.
• Communicate effectively with the project team regarding site conditions, progress, and any potential issues.
• Ensure the work area is clean and organized.
• Be willing to travel to various job sites as required, which may include extended periods away from home.
• Potentially lead a small crew, providing guidance and ensuring safe work practices.

Qualifications and Required Skills

• Proven experience operating deep pier foundation drill rigs (Spiradrill, Soilmec, Texoma, Watson, Bayshore, IMT, etc.).
• Prior verifiable experience in power transmission and distribution construction preferred.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot and perform minor equipment repairs.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and drilling plans.
• Knowledge of different drilling methods and techniques for various soil and rock conditions, including the use of steel casings and drilling mud.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe working environment and following all safety protocols.
• Excellent hand‑eye coordination and spatial awareness.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong communication skills.
• Ability and willingness to travel 100% to various job sites, which requires working away from home for extended periods.
• Ability and willingness to work demanding schedules, including shifts up to 12 hours per day, 7 days per week if necessary, and work any shift including nights, weekends and holidays based on project needs.
• High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
• Valid Driver's License with a clean driving record.
• Eligible to work in the United States.
• Ability to pass a pre‑employment medical examination, drug screen, and background check.

Physical Demands

• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, etc.).
• Ability to stand, walk, use hands, reach, push, pull, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch and crawl for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and move objects weighing up to 50 pounds frequently and occasionally lift heavier objects with assistance.
• Ability to work in a noisy environment and wear appropriate hearing protection.
• Good vision and depth perception are required.

Certifications (Preferred but may be required)

• OSHA 10 or 30‑hour Construction Safety.
• First Aid and CPR.
• Certifications for operating specific types of heavy equipment (e.g., forklift, manlift).
• Rigging and signal person certifications.

Pilot Foundation Services is proud to offer a generous benefit package to all employees and families

• Medical, Dental and Vision
• Group Life Insurance and AD&D
• Voluntary Supplemental Life Insurance and AD&D
• Paid Leave
• 401k
• Bonus Program

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