Drilling Department Manager

Join a growing company delivering impactful infrastructure projects throughout Northeast Florida. Meskel & Associates Engineering (MAE), now part of ACES and MC Squared, is seeking an experienced Drilling Department Manager to lead our geotechnical drilling operations and field crews.

The successful candidate will bring strong geotechnical drilling experience, practical field knowledge, and the leadership skills needed to manage crews, coordinate multiple projects, solve problems in the field, and support the continued growth and performance of the department.

What You Bring

• Five or more years of experience in geotechnical drilling.
• Strong knowledge of geotechnical drilling methods, equipment, tooling, and field operations.
• Experience supervising drilling crews and coordinating multiple projects and schedules.
• Strong understanding of drilling equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, and safe operation.
• Ability to read project plans, boring locations, and site information and coordinate field layout.
• Understanding of project budgets, cost estimating, labor and equipment costs, and productivity.
• Strong safety awareness and commitment to maintaining safe field operations.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to adjust quickly to changing field conditions and priorities.
• Strong communication and leadership skills, with the ability to work effectively with field crews, project managers, engineers, and clients.
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office and the ability to learn company project management and scheduling systems.
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record; CDL preferred.

What You’ll Do

Manage Drilling Operations

• Oversee daily drilling operations and ensure crews have the information, equipment, and resources needed to complete their work.
• Monitor crew productivity, schedules, equipment problems, and changing field conditions.
• Coordinate drilling activities across multiple projects and schedules.
• Ensure drilling work meets company quality standards and project requirements.
• Identify and address project risks that may affect safety, cost, schedule, or quality.
• Resolve problems affecting safety, budget, schedule, quality, or client satisfaction.
• Work closely with the Drilling Department Assistant, Project Managers, field crews, and geotechnical staff to keep projects running smoothly.
• Remain responsible for the overall performance of drilling operations, including work delegated to the Drilling Department Assistant.

Manage Projects, Budgets & Performance

• Help develop drilling project budgets with the Department Director and Project Managers.
• Assist with preparing drilling proposals and cost estimates.
• Manage drilling work to meet project budgets and schedules.
• Work with the Project Controls Analyst to review project costs, labor hours, equipment use, and overall budget performance.
• Identify and address issues that may cause projects to run over budget or behind schedule.
• Communicate changes in scope, field conditions, delays, or other issues that may affect project cost or schedule promptly.
• Manage staffing, overtime, equipment use, and other department costs.
• Assist with planning for staffing, equipment, maintenance, and future equipment needs.

Lead & Develop the Team

• Manage the overall drilling department and supervise the Drilling Department Assistant and drilling crews.
• Train, coach, and evaluate drilling staff and assist with hiring and other personnel decisions.
• Set priorities and expectations for the Drilling Department Assistant, who coordinates daily crew activities, project layout, and field support.
• Promote safe work practices, accountability, teamwork, and professionalism.
• Support a culture focused on quality, productivity, safety, and continuous improvement.

Why Join MAE?

• Company vehicle provided
• Competitive pay based on experience and qualifications
• Supportive, team-oriented environment
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement

About Us

Meskel & Associates Engineering (MAE) provides engineering and construction services throughout Florida and southern Georgia. Headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida, MAE partners with federal, state, and local agencies to deliver high-quality infrastructure projects. At MAE, we focus on delivering quality work through experienced teams, practical field knowledge, and a commitment to doing things the right way. We value accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement, and we are committed to building not only quality infrastructure – but also a strong, supportive workplace for our team.

Our MAE Construction Engineering & Inspection (CEI) team is primarily focused in Northeast Florida, allowing our staff to work on impactful local projects while maintaining a strong connection to the communities we serve. MAE has now joined forces with MC Squared, both part of ACES, an engineering firm founded in 1983 and offering a wide range of specialized engineering services.