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Directional Drill Operator

B&M Ashman
Alpena, MI Full Time
POSTED ON 7/20/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 11/16/2026

Directional Drill Operator

Job Description: The Directional Drill Operator is responsible for operating different directional drilling and other equipment required for underground construction.

Responsibilities:

  • Assist site Foreman with supervision
  • Operate drill equipment and various other equipment in conjunction with drilling duties. i.e., Directional Drill, Hydro-Vac, Excavator, etc.
  • Responsible to read locate paint or locate flags of utility placement and possess the ability to read the job layout including valves and meter housings that may or may not have been located.
  • Ensuring Company assets (vehicles, equipment, tools, etc.) are properly and continuously maintained in good repair and secured in a safe manner.
  • Read blueprints organization of materials and other resources as necessary to complete excavation requirements, which may include basic hand tools.
  • Maintain bore logs & red-lines.
  • Maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
  • All other duties as assigned by Foreman.

Technical Skills:

  • Ability to identify and use the tools required for maintaining and servicing the drill, drill stem, and rack as well as the ability to diagnose and/or relay any problems to a certified repair technician
  • Ability to read and interpret construction and engineering plans
  • Ability to research land and plat information and communicate design prints
  • Ability to accurately sketch and record field notes and computations for as-builts
  • Ability to perform and/or instruct entry-level skills and practices as required

Education:

  • High school diploma or G.E.D. plus 5-10 years of experience operating a direction drill; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience:

  • 3-5 years of experience as a Directional Drill Locator.
  • Ability to drill drilling in both standard and high-risk areas, such as areas with live utilities.
  • Ability to listen to and implement directions.
  • Knowledge of highway traffic control standards.
  • Knowledge of operation and maintenance of all equipment.
  • Knowledge of Underground Construction practices.
  • Knowledge of health and safety regulations, practices, and procedures.
  • Knowledge of reading and interpreting customer design prints.

Physical Requirements:

  • A valid drivers class A license is required. (CDL Desired).
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment screening that includes background and drug testing.
  • Individuals must have a valid drivers license and driving record meeting the company policy conditions.
  • Must be in good physical condition with the ability to stoop, crawl, bend at the knees and waist, squat and lift 80 lbs.; includes body weight, equipment, tools, and boxes.
  • Must be able to stand for long periods of time on varied surfaces.
  • Position requires working outdoors in all types of weather and in close proximity to vehicular traffic.
Experience and License Requirements
  • CDL A (optional)
  • CDL B (optional)
  • CDL C (optional)

Salary.com Estimation for Directional Drill Operator in Alpena, MI
$45,735 to $60,813
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