Job Description

Specialty Driller Trainee

Requisition Number: 2026-2190-06

Whether you're an established driller looking to expand your expertise into specialty and overwater drilling environments or someone with limited drilling experience who is eager to learn, this role offers a unique opportunity to develop highly specialized skills that few drillers gain during their careers. While the position is posted in Raleigh, North Carolina, the selected candidate may reside near any S&ME location within our footprint because this is a predominantly travel-based role.

At S&ME, we have a history of delivering innovative geotechnical, civil, environmental, and construction material testing for over 50 years. Over the decades, we have grown into a trusted partner for clients across various industries, including transportation, energy, water, waste management, education, government, commercial, industrial, and more. Our commitment to technical excellence and integrity has established us as a leader in our field.

Why Work at S&ME?

• Employee Ownership: As a 100% employee-owned company, our ESOP gives you a personal stake in our success and the opportunity to build long-term wealth while helping shape our future.
• Career Growth: We invest in your success with mentorship, training, and leadership opportunities.
• Exciting Projects: Big or small, simple or complex, we do it all. Our projects are as diverse as they are exciting, so every day brings something new.
• Supportive Culture: Collaboration, respect, and positivity fuel our team environment.
• Flexibility: Work-life balance matters to us, helping you thrive inside and outside the office.
• Community Impact: Your work will directly improve the communities where we live, work, and play.

About The Role:

As a Specialty Driller Trainee, you will support specialty drilling operations while working alongside an experienced Senior Driller to develop the technical skills required to perform overwater and specialty drilling projects safely and efficiently. This role is designed for individuals who are eager to grow into a lead drilling position and gain hands-on experience with specialized equipment, marine-based operations, and complex drilling environments.

The anticipated schedule is 10 consecutive days working followed by 4 days off, with the possibility of being called in during scheduled days off based on project needs.

• Support Drilling Operations: Assist with the operation, mobilization, and maintenance of drilling equipment and tools.
• Execute Field Activities: Support daily drilling operations while contributing to safe, efficient, and high-quality project execution.
• Coordinate Equipment and Logistics: Assist with organizing materials, equipment, maintenance activities, and project logistics to keep operations running smoothly across multiple project locations.
• Learn Technical Skills: Develop knowledge of drilling methods, equipment selection, troubleshooting, and safety requirements.
• Develop into a Future Specialty Driller: Work alongside a Senior Driller to gain the experience needed to independently lead specialty drilling projects in the future.

This position requires flexibility, a strong work ethic, sound judgment, and a commitment to safety while working extended hours in demanding field environments and supporting projects throughout S&ME's footprint. Successful candidates will have the opportunity to develop specialized skills in overwater drilling, marine operations, and advanced field exploration techniques as part of a structured progression toward a lead driller role.

About You:

• You have a High school diploma or GED
• You have a minimum of 1 year of Geotechnical and/or Environmental Drilling experience
• You have active certifications/licensure:
  • Commercial Driver's License (CDL), a plus
  • Valid Driller license
• You have effective communication skills (speaking, reading, and writing) using the English language
• You understand and can perform routine vehicle and equipment maintenance
• You have working knowledge of multiple drilling methods, including hollow stem auger, mud rotary, and rock coring techniques

You Are Willing and Able to:

Perform the physical demands of the position with the use of company-provided Personal Protective Equipment such as:

• Work outdoors in varying weather conditions and on uneven terrain
• Walking over rough, uneven terrain and standing for potentially up to 12 hours a day
• Routinely lifting and carrying 40-50lbs (field/laboratory samples and equipment)

This role is not for those seeking a climate-controlled workspace, but it's incredibly rewarding for individuals who enjoy being hands-on, traveling, solving problems, and seeing projects take shape from the ground up.

Grow With Us:

At S&ME, your career growth matters. You'll receive professional training, work on exciting projects, and be part of a company that truly invests in its people. This is more than a job; it's a chance to build a long-term career in the engineering and construction industry. S&ME provides a comprehensive benefits package to support you and your family, as well as career development resources. Come grow and thrive with us at S&ME!

• Medical, Dental & Vision Plans with HSA and FSA options
• 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with a 5% company contribution
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO) - with rollover options
• Paid Maternity/Parental Leave
• Employee Recognition Program
• Credential Incentive Program
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Company Vehicle with Fuel Card for Project-Based Work
• $2,000 Referral Bonuses & More!

Join us at S&ME!

This full-time role offers competitive pay based on experience. Candidates must comply with our Fleet Management, Substance Policy, and Reference Check requirements. Only candidates with valid employment eligibility (I-9) will be considered. Visa assistance is not available. S&ME reserves the right to hire internally or externally at any time. No candidate/recruiter calls, personal calls, or walk-ins are accepted.