HDD Operator Locator

HDD Operator / Locator

Location: Sauk Rapids, MN / Travel-Based

This role requires strong field awareness, safe work habits, and the ability to work as part of a traveling crew in changing jobsite conditions.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate horizontal directional drilling equipment to install underground utilities, conduit, and fiber.
• Use locating equipment to track drill head position, depth, pitch, and bore path.
• Read and follow prints, bore plans, utility maps, and jobsite instructions.
• Assist with jobsite setup, bore preparation, potholing, pullback, and cleanup.
• Communicate clearly with drill operators, locators, foremen, and crew members.
• Identify and work safely around existing underground utilities.
• Perform daily inspections and basic maintenance on drilling equipment, support equipment, tools, and vehicles.
• Assist laborers and operators with trenching, conduit placement, hand digging, restoration, and general underground construction tasks.
• Follow company safety policies, OSHA standards, traffic control requirements, and jobsite procedures.
• Maintain accurate field documentation as needed, including production notes, bore logs, and daily reports.

Required Qualifications, Skills & Abilities

• Previous HDD operating and/or locating experience.
• Experience working in underground utility construction, telecommunications, fiber, or related field work.
• Ability to read prints, follow bore plans, and understand underground utility markings.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work closely with a traveling crew.
• Ability to work safely around live utilities, equipment, traffic, and active construction sites.
• Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record.
• Willingness to travel on a rotating schedule based on project needs.
• Ability to work overtime and occasional Saturdays as required.

Preferred Qualifications

• CDL preferred.
• Experience operating Vermeer, Ditch Witch, or similar HDD equipment.
• Experience with fiber, conduit, telecom, or power utility installation.
• Knowledge of potholing, utility daylighting, pullback procedures, and restoration.
• Previous experience working on travel crews.

Schedule & Travel

This is a travel-based field position supporting Anderson Underground projects. Crews typically work a rotating travel schedule, with transportation and lodging provided. Per diem is available for working days while traveling, based on company policy.