Master of the Underground!
Lead Rotary Driller - Command the Drill, Shape the Future
Are you the driller who makes the impossible look easy? Ready to lead from the front on the most exciting drilling projects in the South of England?
Nicholls Boreholes isn't your typical drilling outfit. We're the award-winning specialists who've been perfecting the art of water borehole and ground source heat pump installations for over 17 years. With 1,500+ successful projects and 4,000+ boreholes under our belt, we're looking for a seasoned Lead Driller who can take charge of our operations and deliver excellence every single day.
Why This Role Stands Above the Rest
You'll be the master of your domain. This isn't about following orders - you'll be the one making the calls, reading the ground, and adapting to whatever Mother Nature throws at you. Every site is different, every geology tells a story, and you'll be the expert who interprets it all.
Work that actually matters. While other drillers are putting holes in the ground for the sake of it, you'll be creating sustainable water sources and installing renewable energy systems that'll serve families and businesses for decades. Your expertise directly contributes to Britain's green energy future.
Real variety, real challenges. From rural estates needing water independence to commercial developments going carbon neutral - no two jobs are the same. You'll drill through chalk, clay, sandstone, and everything in between, using state-of-the-art equipment that's a joy to operate.
What We Need From You
Proven drilling expertise - You know rotary drilling inside and out. Whether it's cable percussion, rotary air, or mud rotary, you've done it all and done it well.
Leadership skills that count - You'll be running the show on site, managing your crew, and making split-second decisions that keep projects on track and everyone safe.
The ability to read ground conditions like a book - You can spot trouble before it happens and adapt your approach to get the job done right, first time.
Experience we're looking for:
Minimum 5 years rotary drilling experience.
Water borehole drilling background essential.
Ground source heat pump drilling experience preferred (but we'll train the right person).
Valid CPCS/NPORS cards.
Clean driving license (Category B minimum, C+E preferred).
Strong safety record and leadership experience.
What Makes This Role Special
Latest drilling technology - Work with modern, well-maintained rigs that make your job easier and more efficient.
Respected expertise - Your knowledge will be valued by clients, colleagues, and the industry.
Diverse geology - From the Surrey Hills to the South Downs, every site teaches you something new.
Team leadership - Develop and mentor the next generation of skilled drillers.
Job security - Water and renewable energy aren't going anywhere - neither is your career.
Family business values - Work for people who understand drilling and respect what you do.
Your Command Responsibilities
On-site leadership:
Take full control of drilling operations from setup to completion.
Manage and mentor your drilling crew.
Make real-time decisions on drilling techniques and equipment.
Ensure all safety protocols are followed to the letter.
Liaise directly with clients and project managers.
Technical expertise:
Interpret geological surveys and adapt drilling approaches accordingly.
Troubleshoot equipment issues and maintain optimal performance.
Achieve target depths and specifications for water supply and heat pump systems.
Conduct drilling risk assessments and implement safety measures.
Maintain detailed drilling logs and progress reports.
Quality delivery:
Ensure every borehole meets specification and client requirements.
Coordinate with installation teams for seamless project completion.
Manage equipment maintenance and site organization.
Represent Nicholls' reputation for excellence on every job.
What You'll Command
Excellent salary package - Because lead drillers who deliver results are worth their weight in gold.
Leadership benefits:
Company vehicle.
Full toolkit and safety equipment provided.
Performance bonuses for exceptional results.
Professional development and training opportunities.
Company pension scheme.
20 days holiday plus bank holidays.
Sick pay.
Monday to Friday core schedule with occasional overtime.
Modern equipment - Well-maintained rigs, latest drilling technology, and proper support equipment.
Respect and recognition - Your expertise will be valued and your decisions trusted.
Ready to Take Command?
This isn't just another drilling job - it's your chance to lead operations for one of the most respected drilling companies in the South of England. You'll work on projects that matter, with equipment that's properly maintained, for a family business that's been perfecting these operations for nearly two decades.
Based across the South of England - from the New Forest to the Kent Downs, you'll work on some of the region's most interesting and challenging sites.
If you're an experienced rotary driller who's ready to step up to a leadership role where your expertise is valued and your decisions matter, we want to hear from you.
Essential requirements:
5+ years rotary drilling experience.
Water borehole drilling background.
Valid CPCS/NPORS certification.
Clean driving license (Category C+E preferred).
Proven leadership and safety record.
Ability to work across the South of England.
Immediate start available for the right candidate.
_Nicholls Boreholes: 17 years of drilling excellence, 4,000+ successful boreholes. Join the team that sets the standard for water and renewable energy drilling._
Apply now - great lead drillers are rare, and we're ready to invest in the right person.
Job Type: Full-time
Work Location: In person
Application deadline: 30/11/2025
Reference ID: LRDrillLW123
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