Drill Operator Specialist

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is recruiting for two Drill Operator Specialists in Helena. This position serves as the subsurface exploration crew leader and is responsible for planning and overseeing on-site subsurface exploration projects consisting of various drilling methods Cone Penetration Testing and geophysical methods. Duties include overseeing subsurface exploration projects and subsurface exploration technicians; operating maintaining and repairing drilling and support equipment and tools; and providing training and technical assistance to subsurface exploration technicians. The incumbent reports to the Field Investigation Unit Supervisor (46005) and indirectly supervises two subsurface exploration technicians.

For a full job description please contact Lauren Grayson at

Benefits of working for MDT and the State of Montana include:

• Culture of public service and a commitment to work/life balance
• Health Dental and Vision Insurance
• Access to Montana Health Centers low-cost clinics for state employees and their families
• State Retirement plan and additional savings opportunities (deferred compensation)
• Employees in this position receive overtime compensation or compensatory time for all time in a pay status over 40 hours in a workweek
• Paid vacation sick leave and holidays
• Eligibility for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness

• Benefits apply on first day of employment

For information on the Montana Department of Transportations mission vision and values please visit our website: Education and Experience:

• The required knowledge and skills are typically acquired through a combination of education and experience equivalent to a high school diploma or equivalent.
• This position requires a minimum of three (3) years progressively responsible experience in geotechnical exploration operations soil sampling diamond core drilling and geotechnical instrumentation installation.
• Certifications licensure or other credentials include: The incumbent must possess and maintain a valid Class A/Type 2 drivers license with air brake and tanker endorsement.

• Alternative qualifications include: Any combination of education and experience equivalent to the minimum qualifications.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities:

• This position requires thorough knowledge of the methods and techniques of subsurface investigation and sampling; Environmental Protection Agency regulations governing safety and techniques of drilling and sampling soil and water known to be contaminated with hazardous materials; methods and techniques used in monitor well installation and abandonment as well as precautions against cross contamination of groundwater resources; and applicable State federal AASHTO and FHWA requirements and standards.
• This position requires skill in operating maintaining and repairing specialized exploration and sampling equipment and tools vehicles and various drilling support equipment and hand tools equipment maintenance and repair and light duty welding and fabrication. Proper Hole abandonment procedures for artesian conditions instrumentation and general borings. Knowledge in rotary mud exploration including mixing ratios and incorporation of appropriate additives

Required Application Materials:

• A resume detailing your qualifications and work history.
• Your online application and all required materials must be submitted before midnight on the closing date. Ensure all materials submitted are selected as Relevant. If you need an accommodation with the application process please contact the HR representative listed below.
• This agency may use a training assignment. Employees in training assignments may be paid below the base pay established by the agency pay rules. Conditions of the training assignment will be stated in writing at the time of hire.

Other Information:

• Drivers record will be verified. Successful applicants will be required to sign a release form which authorizes the Department to obtain the applicants permanent driving records. Compliance with Mont. Admin. R. 2.6.201 State Vehicle Use and MDT Policy #6.03.001 State Vehicle Use Policy are conditions of employment.
• Requires a negative pre-employment drug screen.
• This position is being posted in accordance with the MFPE bargaining unit agreement. Non-bargaining unit employees or employees of another bargaining unit may apply. If the position is not filled with a bargaining unit applicant the non-bargaining unit applicants may be considered. However bargaining unit applicants will have preference.
• The Montana Department of Transportation is an equal opportunity employer. Women racial and ethnic minorities people with disabilities and veterans and disabled veterans are encouraged to apply. People with disabilities needing assistance in the application process or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may call the Human Resources and Occupational Safety Division at 406.444.6054.
• The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is committed to continuous improvement of our employee safety program and our safety and health processes and to achieving an injury-free workplace.
• Proof of eligibility to work in the United States must be provided if selected for hire. Generally sponsorship for work authorization is not available through the State of Montana. MDT is not enrolled in E-Verify and is unable to hire F-1 STEM OPT visa candidates.