University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Drilling Operations Technician
Job Description

Job Summary:

As a Drilling Operations Technician, you will:

  • Serve as the technician in support of drilling operations by assisting in drilling test holes and processing test-hole and core samples.
  • Operate large vehicles and transport equipment to drill sites.
  • Plan, design and maintain Conservation and Survey Division core- and sample-storage spaces.
  • Provide maintenance to drilling equipment, water wells, and other structures.
  • Support scientists in non-drilling field research and laboratory research as needed.

 

In this position, you must hold or be able to obtain a Class "B" CDL license, a Nebraska Water Well Drilling Contractor license, complete drilling fluid training, and demonstrate a thorough understanding thereof. Within the UNL system, this position is categorized as a Research Technician III.

About Us:

The mission of the Conservation and Survey Division of the School of Natural Resources is to investigate and record information about Nebraska's geologic history, its rock and mineral resources, the quantity and quality of its water resources, land cover and other aspects of its geography, as well as the nature, distribution and uses of its soils.

 

At the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, we're proud to be consistently recognized by Forbes as a top employer, known for our welcoming and supportive work 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 real impact in Nebraska. When you join our team as a full-time, regular staff member, you'll enjoy:

 

  • Employee & dependent scholarship program to pursue higher education
  • Generous retirement plans with a university match
  • Ample paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays
  • Comprehensive insurance options including medical, dental, vision, and life 

Required Qualifications:

  • Associate's degree in mechanics or related field.
  • Three (3) years of experience with equipment maintenance and computers.
  • Additional years of relevant experience or education may substitute on a year-for-year basis.
  • Valid driver's license and abiilty to meet University driver eligibility criteria
  • Ability to obtain a Class "B" CDL within 3 months of employment.
  • Ability to acquire a Nebraska Water Well Drilling Contractor license within one year of employment.

Preferred Qualifications:

The following qualifications are preferred but not required:

  • Two years of experience with equipment maintenance and computers.
  • Nebraska Pump Installation Contractor license.
  • Knowledge of mechanics.
  • Welding skills.

 

Compliance Requirements:

If selected for this position and a verbal offer is accepted, the final written offer will be contingent upon the successful completion of the following required pre-employment check(s): 

  • Pre-placement physical
  • Criminal history background check
  • Driving record review
Information at a Glance
Req Id:  1013
Campus Label:  NU Institute of Agriculture & Natural Resources (IANR)
Org Unit:  Survey Division - School of Nat Res IANR
Job Location:  Lincoln, NE 68583
Application Review Date:  10/9/25
Open Until Filled:  Yes
Advertised Salary:  $20.50/hr minimum
Job Type:  Full-Time
Worksite Eligibility:  On-site
Benefits Eligible:  Yes
For questions or accommodations related to this position contact:  Nicolas Bretta | nbretta2@unl.edu
Special Instructions to Applicant:  Click on Apply Now. Create or login to account. If current employee, click on Employee login.

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.

 

Posting Start Date:  9/23/25