Location: Retford
We are looking for a motivated HDD Trainee to join our team and begin a career in horizontal directional drilling. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys outdoor work, travel, is keen to learn drilling operations, and wants hands-on training with experienced HDD crews. Training will be provided on the job to help you develop the skills needed including drilling, locating, rig support, and fluid recycling systems.
Key Qualifications and Skills:
Key Responsibilities
As an HDD Trainee, you will gain experience and provide support in the following areas:
Drilling Operations
Assist with HDD rig setup, drilling, and daily operations
Support pilot bore, reaming, and pullback activities
Learn safe operation of drilling equipment under supervision
Assist with drill pipe handling and tooling changes
Locating & Tracking
Assist Locator with tracking drill head using electronic locating systems
Help record bore path data and maintain accuracy
Support utility avoidance procedures and safe excavation practices
Rig Support (Rig Hand Duties)
Load and unload materials and equipment
Maintain safe and tidy worksite conditions
Conduct pre-start checks and basic equipment maintenance
Assist with tooling, mixing drilling fluids, and general site duties
Fluid Recycling & Mud Systems
Assist in operating and maintaining mud mixing and recycling systems
Monitor fluid levels and help maintain proper drilling fluid properties
Support cleaning and maintenance of recycling units
If you are a motivated person seeking to commence a career within the dynamic world of civil engineering and trenchless sector, we invite you to apply for this exciting role. Join us in shaping the future of our industry and advancing your career with Joseph Gallagher Limited's Reford office.
Company Background
The Joseph Gallagher Group is a family owned Civil Engineering business that delivers expertise whilst putting client satisfaction at the core of the business. Built on a personal reputation for honesty and quality, we understand the actions we take affect the communities and environments we operate in.
LIFE Culture
We're promoting a culture change within the industry and demonstrating initiatives to dramatically improve Health, Safety and Wellbeing. In 2014, we launched our award-winning cultural safety programme (LIFE) which is deeply embedded into the company's DNA and core values.
Disability Confident Committed
We are a disability confident employer and we're committed to providing equal opportunities in employment. All individuals will be treated in a fair and equal manner and in accordance with the law regardless of gender, marital status, race, religion, colour, age, disability or sexual orientation.
Reasonable Adjustments
We want to make our recruitment processes accessible to everyone, so if there is any way that we can support you to enable you to be the best you can, please contact the HR team at
We are one of the UK's leading civil engineering and tunnelling contractors, offering a wide range of construction and specialist services.