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Bore Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Mentor and train operators, laborers, and welders on how to properly set up, execute, and safely perform bore related tasks. * Run auger bore machine and larger scale excavators efficiently and ...

Mentor and train operators, laborers, and welders on how to properly set up, execute, and safely perform bore related tasks. * Run auger bore machine and larger scale excavators efficiently and ...

Machine Operator Grand Haven, MI, 1st shift, $18.00+ per hour Job Summary Are you a motivated and ... Inspect parts using micrometers, bore gauges, and calipers to ensure accuracy and consistency. In ...

Drill Operator

Detroit, MI ยท On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Conduct bore planning, pilot drilling, reaming, and product pullback operations safely and ... Proven experience operating directional drilling equipment (Vermeer, Ditch Witch, or similar)

Drill Operator

Detroit, MI ยท On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Conduct bore planning, pilot drilling, reaming, and product pullback operations safely and ... Proven experience operating directional drilling equipment (Vermeer, Ditch Witch, or similar)

Drill Operator

Detroit, MI ยท On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Conduct bore planning, pilot drilling, reaming, and product pullback operations safely and ... Proven experience operating directional drilling equipment (Vermeer, Ditch Witch, or similar)

Drill Operator

Kalamazoo, MI ยท On-site

$20 - $30/hr

As an Operator I, II, or III, you will be responsible for operating directional drilling equipment, locating predetermined bore paths, and supporting underground utility construction projects. You ...

Our team of professionals have decades of experience in the Clean & TV, Inspection, Rehabilitation and Cross Bore markets. We have a current opening for a CCTV Operator. Responsibilities: * Performs ...

HDD Operator - Hamtramck, MI

Hamtramck, MI

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

HDD Operators work with a field crew to safely install or replace underground utilities using ... Complete bore logs, drilling records, and other project documentation as required * Perform safe ...

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Bore Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$6

$15

$19

How much do bore operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for bore operator in Michigan is $15.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $16.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges bore operators face when working on-site, and how can they be addressed?

Bore Operators often encounter challenges such as varying soil conditions, equipment malfunctions, and the need to maintain precise bore paths to avoid underground utilities. To address these, it's important to conduct thorough site assessments, follow safety protocols, and maintain clear communication with the crew and supervisors. Regular equipment checks and ongoing training in the latest boring techniques also help ensure efficiency and minimize risks on the job.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a bore operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Bore Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, understanding of drilling techniques, and often a high school diploma or relevant vocational training. Familiarity with drilling rigs, borehole logging equipment, and safety systems is crucial, along with certifications such as OSHA or HAZWOPER depending on the work environment. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork set standout operators apart. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring safe, efficient, and accurate drilling operations in challenging environments.

Is drilling a good career?

Drilling as a bore operator is a stable career in the construction and mining industries, requiring technical skills and safety training. It offers opportunities for advancement and often involves working outdoors in physically demanding environments. Certification and experience can improve job prospects and earning potential.

How much do bore operators make?

Bore operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the projects. Skilled operators with certifications and knowledge of drilling equipment can earn higher wages, especially in industrial or construction settings with overtime or shift work.

What is a bore operator?

Bore Operators are skilled workers who operate drilling or boring machines to create holes in the ground, typically for utility lines, pipelines, or geotechnical investigations. They are responsible for setting up and controlling equipment such as horizontal directional drilling (HDD) rigs, monitoring the drilling process, and ensuring the accuracy and safety of the operation. Bore Operators often work on construction sites, and their job requires technical knowledge, attention to safety protocols, and the ability to interpret construction plans.

What is the difference between Bore Operator vs Drilling Operator?

AspectBore OperatorDrilling Operator
CredentialsCertifications in borehole drilling, safety trainingCertifications in drilling operations, safety standards
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, oil & gas fieldsOil rigs, drilling sites, industrial facilities
Employer & IndustryConstruction, mining, oil & gas companiesOil & gas industry, drilling contractors

Both roles involve operating drilling equipment, but a Bore Operator typically focuses on specific borehole tasks, while a Drilling Operator handles broader drilling operations. The skills and certifications overlap significantly, making them closely related roles within the drilling industry.

Infographic showing various Bore Operator job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,018 per year, or $15.4 per hour.

Auger Bore Foreman

Dunigan Bros. Inc.

Jackson, MI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

About Dunigan Bros., Inc
Water is one of the 3 essential needs for human life. That’s why we specialize in constructing infrastructure to supply clean water and dispose of wastewater for communities throughout the Midwest.
How you get to help us do that in this role
Supervise and manage boring operations to ensure that projects are completed safely and efficiently.   
What you’ll do as an Auger Boring Foreman

  • Manage and lead while also contributing to the successful and safe completion of projects in a timely manner.
  • Mentor and train operators, laborers, and welders on how to properly set up, execute, and safely perform bore related tasks.
  • Run auger bore machine and larger scale excavators efficiently and effectively. 
  • Must be able to properly dig and set up bore pits using proper trench safety devices, based on plans and appropriate elevations.  
  • Interpret plans, soil conditions and utility maps to plan bore paths and adjust machine setup for accurate alignment and grade.
  • Set up transit system, shoot alignment and check grade with level and grade rod.
  • Coordinate daily tasks according to priorities and plans; ability to make changes when necessary due to weather, supplies, delivery and personnel.
  • Maintain daily company project logs, daily reports, safety reports, morning toolbox talks, and maintenance requests.
  • Prioritize safety by ensuring that all safety rules are always followed. 
About you
  • Strong background in the inclusive set up, installation, and crew management for a variety of jack and bore and small diameter TBM operations.
  • In-depth knowledge of OSHA guidelines, trench excavation safety, confined space entry techniques, and construction equipment and procedures.
  • You are proficient with basic construction math. Must be able to calculate grades, depths, and cuts based on plan elevations, and machine setup.
  • Ability to assess soil conditions to determine the appropriate cutter heads, casing lubrication, and spoil removal techniques.
  • You must possess leadership skills for effectively delegating tasks to lower-level crew members, subcontractors, and construction workers.  
  • Safety and quality are a reflection of who you are.
  • Must be able and willing to travel.
  • Must be able to use torches and perform various welding tasks.  
  • Your driver’s license reflects a safe driving history
  • You've earned a High School diploma or equivalent
Even better (but not required) if you have
  • A valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
What’s in it for you
  • Balance - While many heavy civil contractors work their teams 70-80 hours per week, we average 45-50 hours per week and very rarely work weekends
  • Growth - We know it's hard to find good training in this industry. We won't expect you to "pick it up or move on." We offer unlimited training, both hands-on and online
  • Financial Security
    • 401k with 8% employer contribution after 90 days of employment. No employee match required to receive the company provided 8%
    • Platinum healthcare with minimal employee costs ($25 per week for family care)
    • Bi-Annual Performance Bonus Package.
  • Variety -  We chase after different types of unique projects and seek to take on the most challenging ones, so travel work will be expected.
  • Stability – Assignment of a foreman work truck, outfitted with tools and supplies that you will need to complete daily tasks, along with a company fuel card. 
  • Recognition & Support - Gift cards, birthday gifts, go home early days when possible, Ariat apparel allowance.

FAQs
  1. How much travel can I expect? The amount of travel fluctuates based on where we win the opportunity to do projects. We aim to stay within a 3 hour travel radius. When traveling, you can expect us to pay for the crews lodging, per diem and a weekly dinner.
  2. Is this seasonal or year round work? We haven’t laid off in 4 years, our goal is year-round work.
  3. Is there opportunity to grow? There's always room for growth, and that is based on what you put in, your efforts, attitude, and goals.
  4. Can I earn overtime? Yes, and we also want you to have a personal life. You can expect to be able to earn 7-8 hours per week over 40.

We are an equal-opportunity employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status. We are committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within our workplace and creating an environment where all individuals feel valued, respected, and supported. We comply with all applicable laws governing EEO and affirmative action, and we ensure that all employment decisions are made solely based on job-related qualifications and merit.

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