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Bore Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Mill Operator

Freeland, MI ยท On-site

$25 - $36/hr

The Mill Operator to support the manufacturing of precision ball screw components in a high ... Proficiency with precision inspection equipment including micrometers, bore gauges, indicators, and ...

Mill Operator

Freeland, MI ยท On-site

$25 - $36/hr

The Mill Operator to support the manufacturing of precision ball screw components in a high ... Proficiency with precision inspection equipment including micrometers, bore gauges, indicators, and ...

Machine Operator

Grandville, MI

$15.25 - $18/hr

Perform required bore, during and after-operation user maintenance * Monitor equipment ... Six months operating small equipment experience preferred (hilo, loader, forklift, scissor lift)

New

Be Seen First

Perform in-process inspection using precision measuring instruments (micrometers, bore gauges, CMM ... operating CNC boring mills (Devlieg, Kuraki, Amera-Seiki, or similar) * Ability to read and work to ...

Directional Drill Operator The Directional Drill Operator is responsible for operating different ... Maintain bore logs & red-lines. * Maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in ...

Directional Drill Operator The Directional Drill Operator is responsible for operating different ... Maintain bore logs & red-lines. * Maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in ...

Machine Operator

Grandville, MI ยท On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

Perform required bore, during and after-operation user maintenance * Monitor equipment ... Six months operating small equipment experience preferred (hilo, loader, forklift, scissor lift)

New

CNC Operator

Taylor, MI

$19 - $26/hr

Proficiency with precision measuring instruments, including micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, height gauges. * Experience setting up and operating CNC lathes, mills, or machining centers. * Basic ...

CNC Operator

Taylor, MI

$19 - $26/hr

Proficiency with precision measuring instruments, including micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, height gauges. * Experience setting up and operating CNC lathes, mills, or machining centers. * Basic ...

Proficiency with precision measuring instruments, including micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, height gauges. * Experience setting up and operating CNC lathes, mills, or machining centers. * Basic ...

... Operator. This position also contributes to continuous improvement, tool selection, and process ... Inspect components using advanced metrology tools (calipers, micrometer, height gauges, pins, bore ...

Lathe Operator

Troy, MI ยท On-site

$22 - $25/hr

... Operator. This position also contributes to continuous improvement, tool selection, and process ... Inspect components using advanced metrology tools (calipers, micrometer, height gauges, pins, bore ...

CNC Operator

Taylor, MI ยท On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Proficiency with precision measuring instruments, including micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, height gauges. * Experience setting up and operating CNC lathes, mills, or machining centers. * Basic ...

Drill Operator

Grand Rapids, MI ยท On-site

$20 - $30/hr

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

Mazak CNC Lathe Operator

Livonia, MI ยท On-site

$20.50 - $26.25/hr

... bore gages, OD snaps, micrometers, indicators, and gage block set-ups. OTHER REQUIREMENTS: -Work overtime when necessary. -Follow written and verbal instructions accurately -Participate in problem ...

Showing results 21-40

Bore Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$6

$15

$19

How much do bore operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 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.

Outside Plant Construction - Operator

Highline Services LLC

Marquette, MI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description


Job Summary:

The Outside Plant Construction – Operator will be the individual responsible for operating Highline construction machinery to build Highline’s Fiber Network in various areas of the Michigan Upper Peninsula. 


Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Operate a combination of horizontal directional bore, ride-on plow, and mini excavator in collaboration with the locator to successfully install fiber optic systems.
  • Read and understand utilitylocatesand above ground utility indicators to ensure the safety of the crew anda high levelof productivity.
  • Read and understand construction prints and drawings to ensure proper installation of fiber optic network with regards topermittingstandards and quality.
  • Understand and adhere to safe work zone practices within public or private rights-of-way,in accordance withNESC code, 811 guidelines, and all permitting entities.
  • Transport heavy equipment to and from the job site each day
  • Troubleshootproblems as theyarise in the field.
  • Other duties as assigned. 

Competencies:

  • Willingness to learn, adhere to, andcomply withHighline safety standards.
  • 2 years of utility directional drilling operating experience with Ditchwitch or Vermeer equipment
  • 2 years of ride-on plow and mini excavator operating experience
  • Experience with operating and performing light maintenance of aDitchwitchor Vermeer drill.
  • Demonstratedtrack recordof completing work witha high levelof quality.
  • Ability to solve difficult technical problems. 
  • Thrives in a hands-on, manual labor work environment.
  • Must have valid Class A CDL with a clean driving record.

Physical Requirements:

  • Prolongedperiodsworking outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Must be able tolift upto 50 pounds at times.
  • Must be able to pass pre-employment screenings (Drug and Background) including Random Quarterly testing.

Highline Services, LLC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.