Director, East Coast Drilling

Location: Northeast - NY (preferred), CT, MA, MD

📌 About the job:

The Regional Drilling Director will lead the expansion and optimization of Dandelion’s geothermal drilling operations on the East Coast. Reporting to the VP of Drilling, the Director will oversee a regional team of drilling crews, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and drive continuous improvement. This role combines strategic planning, technical leadership, and operational management to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective drilling while fostering a culture of safety, innovation, and excellence. 

🛠️ Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage drilling teams, drillers, and support personnel to ensure safe, efficient execution of drilling operations.
• Establish a technical department focused on drilling techniques, equipment selection, and logistics to maximize productivity.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance drilling performance, reduce downtime, and increase overall project profitability.
• Develop and manage budgets, schedules, and performance metrics; provide regular reports to senior management.
• Cement a safety mindset in the team and support with safety standards, routines, and recognition.
• Mentor and coach team members to promote professional development and a culture of safety and excellence.
• Stay current on industry trends, technology, and regulatory developments, incorporating innovations into drilling strategies.
  
  

🎯 You will thrive in this role if you have:

• Strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to lead large, multi-state teams and navigate complex operational challenges.
• Comfort working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with a proactive, solutions-oriented mindset.
• Passion for sustainability and mission-driven work.
• Curiosity, ownership, and a team-first mentality.
  
  

✅ Must-haves:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field. 
• 8+ years of experience in heavy construction, utility-scale renewable energy, or related industries.
• Minimum of 3 years of direct management or supervisory experience leading teams of 4 or more.
• 4+ years drilling operations experienceStrong technical knowledge of drilling techniques, geothermal reservoir characteristics, and project management.
• Strong understanding of safety regulations, environmental compliance, and risk management practices.
• Proficiency with project management systems, operational software, and data analysis tools.
• Willingness to travel locally and regionally up to 50% of the time — a mix of same-day visits and overnight trips — with occasional short-notice travel as business needs arise.
  
  

🌟 Bonus points for:

• Degree in Geology, Petroleum Engineering, Geothermal Engineering or Civil Engineering.
• Prior experience in geothermal energy, HVAC, water, oil and/or clean tech.
• Experience building and leading technical drilling teams.
• Familiarity with startup or high-growth environments.