Directional Drill Operator

COMPANY 

Trusted since 1998, DrillTech, a Crestone Services Group company, is a fully licensed and bonded provider of horizontal directional drilling (HDD), road boring, and pipeline construction and maintenance services. Our management team brings extensive experience across Colorado’s diverse geographies and soil conditions, helping us anticipate challenges and deliver safe, efficient solutions. We build strong customer partnerships through open, honest, and frequent communication and a commitment to completing projects on time and within budget. Our parent company, Crestone Services Group, is a leading regional provider of specialty infrastructure solutions supporting the safe, efficient, and high-quality installation of electric, gas, and communications infrastructure. 

Location: 7080 York St, Denver, CO 80229  |  Pay: $28.00–$36.00 per hour DOE 

DIRECTIONAL DRILL OPERATOR

POSITION SUMMARY 

The Directional Drill Operator is responsible for safely operating horizontal directional drilling equipment and supporting the installation of underground conduit, pipe, and fiber optic infrastructure. This position requires hands-on experience with directional drilling operations, utility locating, bore setup, drilling fluid management, reaming, pullback, and equipment maintenance. 

The Operator will work with a variety of equipment, including Vermeer and/or Ditch Witch directional drills, vacuum trucks, mud trucks, excavators, forklifts, dump trucks, locating equipment, and other construction equipment as required. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Operate horizontal directional drilling equipment for the installation of underground conduit, pipe, and fiber optic infrastructure. 

• Locate existing underground utilities and interpret utility locate information before and during drilling operations. 

• Set up drilling equipment, water tanks, grounding systems, and other required equipment at the job site. 

• Properly formulate and mix drilling fluids based on soil and site conditions. 

• Perform appropriate reaming and pullback procedures based on project requirements and existing conditions. 

• Assist with potholing, remediation, setting handholes, and completing tie-ins. 

• Follow project specifications, bore plans, safety requirements, and company procedures. 

• Monitor and guide laborers and crew members as needed to support safe and efficient operations. 

• Complete required documentation, including bore logs, crew time records, equipment inspections, and maintenance reports. 

• Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections of vehicles and equipment. 

• Clean, inspect, and maintain assigned equipment, including checking fluid levels and identifying required maintenance. 

• Assist with routine maintenance and seasonal preparation, including winterizing equipment when required. 

• Communicate daily with the Supervisor regarding production, equipment condition, project status, and required reporting. 

• Maintain safe work practices and protect employees, the public, and existing underground facilities. 

• Maintain strong production levels while ensuring work meets safety and quality standards. 

QUALIFICATIONS 

• Minimum 3 years of experience operating Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) equipment, specifically Vermeer and/or Ditch Witch. 

• Valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) required. 

• Demonstrated experience with directional drilling, reaming, pullback, and underground utility installation. 

• Ability to read and interpret utility locates, bore plans, project specifications, and related documentation. 

• Knowledge of drilling fluids and the ability to adjust mud mixtures based on site and soil conditions. 

• Experience safely operating and maintaining underground construction equipment. 

• Strong understanding of job-site safety procedures and underground utility protection. 

• Ability to complete required operational reports and equipment inspections accurately and on time. 

• Strong communication, teamwork, and time-management skills. 

• Ability to work independently and make sound decisions in field conditions. 

• MSHA and OSHA Competent Person certifications preferred. 

• Must maintain a safe driving record and meet applicable company and regulatory requirements. 

WORKING CONDITIONS 

• Work is primarily performed outdoors at active construction and utility job sites. 

• Regular exposure to construction equipment, noise, dust, dirt, weather conditions, and uneven terrain. 

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, climb, and perform physical work for extended periods. 

• Must be able to safely perform duties around heavy equipment and underground utility operations. 

• Travel to project sites may be required. 

• Work schedules may vary based on project and operational needs. 

BENEFITS 

DrillTech offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage; a 401(k) plan with company match; short- and long-term disability coverage; company-paid basic life insurance and Employee Assistance Program (EAP); voluntary life and supplemental insurance options; paid time off; sick pay; and paid holidays. Eligibility and plan terms may apply. 

APPLY TODAY 

Ready to put your directional drilling experience to work? Join DrillTech, a Crestone Services Group company, and be part of a team delivering essential underground utility infrastructure projects. 

Apply today by submitting your resume! We look forward to learning more about your experience and qualifications. 

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY 

DrillTech, a Crestone Services Group company, is an equal employment opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs without regard to any status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. 

Salary : $28 - $36