Operations Manager Geotechnical Drilling · Dartford

Location: Dartford

Salary: Competitive

Contract Type: Permanent

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, Monday-Friday

Looking for a leadership role where you can combine operational excellence, technical expertise, and commercial responsibility? We're seeking an Operations Manager – Site Investigation & Geotechnical Drilling to lead the successful delivery of ground investigation and drilling projects across the UK. You'll oversee the full project lifecycle, from supporting tender development and mobilisation through to delivery, client management, commercial performance, and team leadership. This is a pivotal role within our Geotechnical division, offering the opportunity to influence operational strategy, drive business growth, and lead high‑performing teams delivering critical infrastructure projects.

What you'll do:

• Lead the delivery of multiple site investigation and geotechnical drilling projects from mobilisation through to completion.
• Manage project programmes, resources, budgets, and operational performance across a portfolio of contracts.
• Act as the primary point of contact for clients, maintaining strong relationships and ensuring excellent service delivery.
• Produce and review project documentation including RAMS, Construction Phase Plans, COSHH assessments, and site packs.
• Lead and support Drilling Supervisors, drill crews, and technical teams to ensure safe, efficient project delivery.
• Monitor commercial performance, identifying risks and opportunities to protect profitability.
• Champion Health, Safety, Quality, and Environmental standards across all operations.
• Work closely with commercial, estimating, procurement, laboratory, and HSQE teams to deliver projects successfully.
• Support tender preparation, pricing reviews, site walkovers, and technical scoping activities.
• Drive continuous improvement across operational processes, safety performance, and client satisfaction.
• Identify opportunities for repeat business, cross‑selling, and revenue growth within existing client accounts.
• Contribute to operational reporting, forecasting, resource planning, and strategic business objectives.

What you'll get:

• Opportunity to lead complex geotechnical and site investigation projects across a diverse range of sectors.
• Significant autonomy and influence over operational and commercial decision‑making.
• Exposure to major infrastructure, utilities, environmental, and development projects.
• The chance to shape and grow a developing geotechnical business within Ground Control.
• Ongoing professional development and support for further qualifications and technical training.
• A leadership role where you'll directly influence project success, team performance, and business growth.
• Collaboration with experienced technical, commercial, and operational professionals.
• A supportive culture focused on safety, innovation, and continuous improvement.

What we're looking for:

• Proven experience within site investigation, geotechnical drilling, or ground engineering environments.
• Experience managing multiple projects, contracts, or operational teams simultaneously.
• Strong leadership skills with experience developing and managing field‑based teams.
• Excellent client‑facing, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Commercial awareness, including budget management, forecasting, risk management, and contract performance.
• Sound knowledge of geotechnical investigation techniques and ground characterisation.
• Understanding of industry standards including BS5930, BS EN ISO 22475, and AGS data requirements.
• Strong organisational and project management skills.
• Full UK Driving Licence.

Desirable:

• Degree, HNC, or HND in Civil Engineering, Geology, Environmental Science, or a related discipline.
• Experience working within major infrastructure or framework environments.
• SMSTS or SSSTS.
• Relevant CSCS Card.
• BOHS P901 or contaminated land experience.
• Experience supporting estimating, tendering, or business development activities.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary – aligned with your skills and experience.
• Performance‑linked bonus: Bonus opportunities aligned to your level and contribution.
• Pension scheme – helping you plan for the future.
• Recognition schemes – celebrating and rewarding great work.
• Private GP service – fast, convenient access to medical support.
• Life insurance – providing added peace of mind.
• Subsidised gym membership – supporting your health and wellbeing.
• Holiday buy scheme – purchase up to 5 additional days of annual leave.

Equal Opportunities Statement:

At Ground Control, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. We believe that diversity drives innovation and success, and we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race (including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin), religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic as defined in the Equality Act 2010. We actively support and promote an inclusive culture, ensuring fair and equitable treatment throughout the recruitment process and across all stages of employment, including training, development, promotion, pay, and termination. We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for disabled applicants and employees, and to creating a working environment free from discrimination, harassment, bullying, or victimisation. We expect all colleagues to uphold our values of dignity, respect, and inclusion. We take a zero‑tolerance approach to any form of discriminatory behaviour and are committed to continuous improvement through training, inclusive policies, and accountability at all levels.