Drilling Manager/ Sr. Foreman

We are seeking an experienced Drilling Manager / Senior Foreman to lead and oversee horizontal directional drilling (HDD) operations. This role is responsible for managing field crews, ensuring safe and efficient job execution, maintaining equipment, and driving production and profitability across multiple projects.

This is a hands-on leadership role requiring both field expertise and operational oversight. You will work directly with our other Drilling Manager to do bids on potential jobs, training, overseeing mobilization, demobilizing, etc. 

Key Responsibilities

Field Operations & Leadership

• Lead and manage drilling crews, including operators, locators, and laborers

• Oversee daily job site operations from mobilization to completion

• Ensure projects are completed safely, on time, and within budget

• Provide on-site leadership, coaching, and training to crews

• Coordinate with office/dispatch for scheduling and job assignments

Project Execution

• Read and interpret bore plans, utility maps, and job specifications

• Manage drill setups, fluid systems, and bore paths

• Troubleshoot drilling issues including rock conditions, frac-outs, and utility conflicts

• Ensure proper use of drilling equipment and tooling

Safety & Compliance

• Enforce company safety policies and OSHA requirements

• Conduct daily job site safety meetings and inspections

• Ensure proper PPE usage and job site documentation

• Report and document incidents, near misses, and safety concerns

Equipment & Fleet Management

• Oversee maintenance and condition of drills, trucks, and support equipment

• Coordinate repairs and preventative maintenance schedules

• Ensure crews maintain clean, organized job sites and equipment

Production & Performance

• Track daily production (footage, time, materials, crew efficiency)

• Monitor job costs including labor, materials, fuel, and subcontractors

• Provide daily and end-of-job reports to management

• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency and reduce costs

Qualifications

• 5 years of HDD / drilling experience required

• 2 years in a leadership role (Foreman, Lead Operator, or Manager)

• Strong knowledge of directional drilling in both dirt and rock conditions

• Experience with various drill rigs and locating systems

• Ability to read bore profiles and utility plans

• CDL preferred (or ability to obtain)

• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills

• Willingness to travel and work extended hours as needed

Preferred Experience

• Rock drilling experience (mud motors, air hammer, etc.)

• Fiber, gas, water, and sewer installation projects

• Experience managing multiple crews or projects simultaneously