Horizontal Directional Drilling Operator We're looking for an experienced Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) Operator to join our excavation and boring crew. This is a hands-on field position operating HDD equipment for underground utility and boring projects. The ideal candidate has previous experience running directional drills, understands the drilling process from setup through pullback, and can work independently while coordinating with the locator and ground crew. Previous HDD experience is required. What You'll Be Doing Operate horizontal directional drilling equipment for underground utility installations Perform pilot bores, reaming, and product pullbacks Set up and operate the drill, mud system, tooling, and related equipment Follow bore plans, specifications, and utility markings Work closely with the locator to maintain the proper bore path, depth, and alignment Adjust drilling methods based on soil conditions, rock, groundwater, and other jobsite conditions Monitor drilling progress, mud flow, pressure, and equipment performance Select and change drill tooling as needed for different ground conditions Assist with potholing, excavation, setup, product handling, and other HDD crew activities Perform routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting on the drill and support equipment Keep accurate bore logs and production records Load, unload, and move drilling equipment, tooling, pipe, and other materials Help with jobsite setup, cleanup, and restoration Communicate with the foreman, locator, laborers, and other crew members throughout the project Travel to different jobsites as required What We're Looking For 2+ years of hands-on Horizontal Directional Drilling experience Experience operating Vermeer, Ditch Witch, or similar HDD equipment Experience completing pilot bores, reaming, and pullbacks Good understanding of underground utility construction Ability to read and follow bore plans, construction drawings, and utility markings Understanding of different soil and ground conditions and how they affect drilling Ability to work effectively with an HDD locator Mechanical aptitude and ability to perform basic troubleshooting and maintenance Valid driver's license Ability to work outdoors for extended periods Ability to lift and move equipment, tooling, and materials as needed Willingness to travel to different jobsites Reliable attendance and ability to work as part of a crew Preferred Qualifications 3+ years of HDD experience Experience with larger HDD rigs Experience boring for water, sewer, gas, electrical, telecommunications, or other underground utilities Experience operating excavators or other excavation equipment CDL Class A or B Experience with drilling fluid/mud systems Experience working in a variety of soil and rock conditions Experience reading detailed bore profiles and plans About the Position The HDD Operator will be responsible for running the drill and working with the rest of the crew to complete each bore efficiently and accurately. This position requires someone who understands the equipment, can make adjustments in the field, and can recognize and work through changing ground conditions. You'll be working outdoors on a variety of jobsites and should be comfortable with long workdays and travel when projects require it. We're looking for an experienced operator who can take ownership of the drill, work well with the crew, and consistently produce quality work.
Pay:
$28.00 - $35.00 per hour Expected hours: 40.0 - 60.0 per week