Job Description

Role: DIRECTIONAL DRILLING OPERATIVES & MUD ENGINEERS

Location:

Various Sites throughout the UK

Job Type:

Full-Time, Permanent

Nicol of Skene, a well-established civil engineering construction company based in Scotland, is expanding our specialist Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) team. We are currently seeking

Directional Drilling Operatives

and

Mud Engineers

to join us on a full-time, permanent basis. Full training in the role will be offered to the right candidates

As one of the leading HDD contractors in the region, we deliver complex trenchless installations with professionalism and precision. Due to continued growth, we're offering a fantastic opportunity to be part of a specialist team working on major projects across the UK.

DIRECTIONAL DRILLING OPERATIVES

Key Responsibilities:

Operate and maintain HDD equipment Carry out pilot bores, back-reaming, and product installation Conduct pre-start checks, daily maintenance, and minor repairs Interpret utility drawings and locate existing services Ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and to a high standard Work closely with the mud engineer and support crew during drilling operations Complete daily job sheets and reports

Skills & Experience Required:

Previous experience in civil engineering or utility installation would be advantageous Mechanical or Agricutural background Experience of operating tractors/lorries Full UK driving licence Self-motivated, safety-conscious, and able to work independently or within a team

MUD ENGINEERS

Key Responsibilities:

Prepare and manage drilling fluid systems for HDD operations Monitor fluid properties and adjust additives as necessary Maintain accurate fluid logs and ensure drilling parameters are optimised Assist with equipment setup, fluid mixing, and site maintenance Support the drilling operative with troubleshooting drilling challenges Ensure environmental compliance and responsible fluid disposal

Skills & Experience Required:

Minimum 2 years of experience as a Mud Engineer or in a similar fluid management role Strong understanding of bentonite-based and polymer drilling fluids Experience working in HDD, oil & gas, or geotechnical environments preferred Competence in fluid testing and managing returns in various soil types Full UK driving licence Practical, organised, and detail-focused with a strong commitment to safety

General Requirements for All Applicants:

Willingness to travel across the UK on a regular basis Legal right to work in the UK (no sponsorship available) Positive attitude and strong work ethic Flexibility and readiness to work in changing site environments

What We Offer:

Competitive salary based on experience and role Full-time, permanent employment Ongoing training and development A chance to work with a highly experienced and supportive team Opportunities for career progression in the HDD and civil engineering sectors A supportive working environment with a growing company

To apply, please send your CV and cover letter to: careers@nicolofskene.com or give us a call on 01224 744473

While we welcome interest from all qualified candidates, we are currently unable to provide visa sponsorship. Therefore, only applicants with the unrestricted Right to Work in the UK can be considered.

Nicol of Skene is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering an inclusive environment for all employees. We value teamwork, quality and continuous improvement and we're excited to welcome new talent to support our continued growth.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 12.41-18.00 per hour

Expected hours: No less than 40 per week

Benefits:

Company pension Health & wellbeing programme On-site parking Private medical insurance Referral programme
Work authorisation:

United Kingdom (required)
Willingness to travel:

100% (preferred)
Work Location: In person

Reference ID: DEME080825