Drilling Operations Technician

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Operations

Lincoln, NE, USA

USD 20.5+ / hour

Posted on Jun 2, 2026
Working Title Drilling Operations Technician
Department Survey Division - School of Nat Res-0887
Requisition Number S_260423
Posting Open Date 06/02/2026
Application Review Date: (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date) 06/16/2026
Posting Close Date
Open Until Filled Yes
Description of Work
Do you enjoy hands-on work, operating equipment, solving mechanical problems, and working outdoors?

The UNL’s Conservation and Survey Division is seeking a Drilling Operations Technician to support statewide drilling and field research operations that help Nebraska better understand and protect its natural resources.

This position is ideal for candidates with backgrounds in mechanics, heavy equipment, construction, agriculture, utilities, drilling, or other technical trades who enjoy a mix of fieldwork, equipment operation, maintenance, and teamwork.

As a Drilling Operations Technician, you will:
  • Assist with drilling test holes and collecting and processing soil, rock, and core samples
  • Operate large vehicles and transport drilling equipment to field sites across Nebraska
  • Help maintain and repair drilling equipment, water wells, and related structures
  • Organize and maintain geological core and sample storage facilities
  • Support field and laboratory research activities alongside scientists and research staff
  • Work in a variety of indoor and outdoor environments with opportunities for travel and hands-on problem solving
Candidates must be able to obtain:
  • Class B CDL license
  • Nebraska Water Well Drilling Contractor license
  • Drilling fluid training

UNL will support the successful candidate in obtaining required certifications and developing specialized technical expertise related to drilling operations and environmental research.

Within the UNL system, this position is categorized as a Research Technician III.

About Us
At the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, we’re proud to be consistently recognized by Forbes as a top employer and recently earned the Lincoln Family Friendly Workplace certification. We are known for our welcoming, supportive environment, commitment to professional growth, and outstanding benefits. UNL isn’t just a workplace; it’s a place to build your career and make a meaningful impact in Nebraska.
When you join our team as a full-time, regular staff member, you’ll enjoy:
  • Generous paid time off including vacation, sick leave, parental leave, and holidays
  • Comprehensive insurance options including medical, dental, vision, and life coverage
  • Employee and dependent scholarship programs to pursue higher education
  • Retirement plans with university match
Learn more about working at UNL: https://go.unl.edu/aboutus
The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment. See https://go.unl.edu/nondiscrimination
Minimum Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent plus five (5) years of experience in equipment maintenance, heavy equipment operation, drilling operations, mechanics, construction, utilities, agriculture, or related technical work; OR
  • Associate degree in mechanics, diesel technology, industrial technology, or related field plus three (3) years of related experience; OR
  • Bachelor’s degree in a related field plus one (1) year of related experience
  • Basic computer skills for communication, recordkeeping, and data entry
  • Valid driver’s license and ability to meet University driver eligibility requirements
  • Ability to travel overnight throughout Nebraska during drilling season
  • Ability to obtain a Class B CDL within three months of employment
  • Ability to obtain a Nebraska Water Well Drilling Contractor license within one year of employment

Candidates with transferable mechanical, construction, agricultural, utility, military, or heavy equipment experience are encouraged to apply.
Preferred Qualifications
The following qualifications are preferred, but not required:
  • Knowledge of mechanics and welding skills.
  • Experience operating, maintaining, or repairing heavy equipment or mechanical systems.
  • Nebraska Pump Installation Contractor license.
Pre-Placement Driving Record Review Required Yes
Physical Required No
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) required. Subject to DOT approved pre-employment & random testing for alcohol and controlled substances.
Criminal History Background Check Required No
Posted Salary $20.50/hr minimum
How to Apply
Click on “Apply for this Job”. You will then either create an application or edit your current application that is on file. You will be required to attach your resume and list of references as two separate documents in MS Word or PDF format.
For questions or accommodations related to this position contact
Nicolas Bretta at nbretta2@unl.edu or 402-472-6238
Job Category (old) Office/Service
Job Type Full-Time
Alternate Work Schedule (if other than 8-5)
Work Location (City, State) Lincoln, NE
Position funded by grant or other form of temporary funding? No
If Temporary, indicate end date
Planned Hire Date:
Appointment End Date
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