Drill Operator

Full-Time | Utilities & Construction | Field Operations 

About the Role 

We are looking for a skilled and dependable Directional Drilling Drill Operator to safely and efficiently operate horizontal directional drilling equipment for underground utility installation. This role requires strong technical ability, attention to detail, and leadership skills to guide the crew through successful bores. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Operate HDD drill rigs (Vermeer, Ditch Witch, or similar) to complete bore paths safely and accurately 

• Read and interpret bore plans, prints, utility locates, and job specifications 

• Work closely with the locator to maintain proper depth, pitch, steering, and alignment 

• Perform drill rig setup, teardown, and daily inspections 

• Operate mud pumps, mixers, vacuum systems, and other jobsite equipment 

• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip equipment checks; report mechanical issues 

• Manage drilling fluid systems and understand proper drilling mud applications 

• Lead or support crew during pilot bore, reaming, and pullback operations 

• Maintain accurate bore logs, daily production reports, and equipment documentation 

• Ensure strict compliance with company safety standards, OSHA regulations, and PPE requirements 

• Train and mentor laborers and junior crew members as needed 

• Assist in jobsite restoration, cleanup, and material handling 

Required Qualifications 

• Experience as an HDD Drill Operator required (1–3 years preferred) 

• Proficiency working with HDD equipment (Vermeer, Ditch Witch, etc.) 

• Strong understanding of the HDD process, drilling fluids, and utility construction 

• Ability to read maps, bore plans, and underground utility layouts 

• Valid driver’s license required (CDL Class A preferred) 

• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions 

• Strong communication and leadership skills 

• Ability to lift 50–75 lbs regularly 

Preferred Skills 

• Experience with challenging soils, long bores, or large diameter pulls 

• Knowledge of mud systems, reamers, tooling, drill rods, and pipe handling 

• Mechanical aptitude for troubleshooting equipment 

• Familiarity with OSHA 10/30, trench safety, and underground utility safety 

• Experience coordinating with inspectors, GC supervisors, and utility owners 

Work Environment & Physical Demands 

• Outdoor work in all weather (heat, cold, rain, mud, uneven ground) 

• Long days, early mornings, and occasional weekends 

• Frequent bending, lifting, standing, and equipment operation 

• Travel may be required depending on project needs 

What We Offer 

• Competitive pay overtime 

• Career path to Crew Lead, Supervisor, or Drilling Services Manager 

• Training, certifications, and advancement opportunities 

• Health, dental, vision options  

• 401K 

• Life Insurance 

• Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance 

• Strong team culture and steady workflow 

Schedule 

• Monday–Friday 

• Occasional weekends & out-of-town work depending on project load 

Job Requirements

• Previous Drilling experience required (3-5 years preferred)
• Experience running compact excavator to assist with structure placement, grading, and general excavation
• Experience operating utility locator to assist with potholing
• Able and willing to shovel consistently and lift between 50- 75 pounds
• Valid insurable driver’s license (CDL preferred)
• Second only to safety… have a POSITIVE ATTITUDE!
• Keen sense of attention to detail