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Bore Operator Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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Bore Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$7

$16

$20

How much do bore operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for bore operator in Houston, TX is $16.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $18.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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.

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 experience in operating drilling equipment can earn higher wages, especially in industrial or construction settings.

What are popular job titles related to Bore Operator jobs in Houston, TX?

For Bore Operator jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Bore Operator jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Bore Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Bore Operator jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Bore Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Bore Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,081 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Horizontal Directional Drill Operator (Telecommunications)

Etheridge Pipeline & Conduit

Houston, TX โ€ข On-site

$25 - $45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

THIS IS A TRAVEL ROLE AND MAY REQUIRE EXTENDED OVERNIGHT TRAVEL FOR 4+ CONSECUTIVE WEEKS TO SUPPORT ASSIGNED PROJECT(S).

THIS POSITION MAY BE FILLED AS A LEVEL 1, LEVEL 2, LEVEL 3, OR FOREMAN LEVEL ROLE.

WHO WE ARE

EPC was conceived and operates to provide anyone who desires to provide for their families through the work they do, an opportunity to do so. Everything we do revolves around the vision of a company that provides safe, quality work, driving customer demand that ultimately results in the creation of new job opportunities in the markets we serve. We focus heavily on our Core Values and expect all our employees to operate with those Core Values in Mind. These Core Values are Live Safe, Customer First, Do the Right Thing, Be at Team Player, and Be Productive. 

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR

The Driller II will be using the in-house directional drill, create a directional drill plan; and execute plan. Daily work will involve traveling to different jobsite locations, survey, plan and execute directional bores to place client facilities. Must have full knowledge of underground piping, conduit, cable, and fiber installation operations. The operator will be responsible for directional drilling, locating, and reading prints. 

WHAT YOU GET TO DO 

  • Reviewing blueprints or other plans to determine where to begin drilling holes.
  • Inspecting the progress of a drill site at regular intervals to ensure that it is progressing according to schedule.
  • Analyze job locations for utility lines, permitting, and traffic control to complete construction activities without quality defects, safety incidents or any type of property damage.
  • Complete daily inspections and reporting of maintenance issues on vehicles, trailers, and equipment.
  • Perform service, safety checks, check oil and fluids, and minor repairs on equipment.
  • Visually assess digging areas to ensure it has been properly staked/located prior to digging.
  • Safe operation of directional drills, trenching, or excavating equipment when needed.
  • Perform laborer requirements and responsibilities as needed.
  • All other duties as assigned.
  • Perform a variety of tasks requiring the use of hand tools and power tools and motorized equipment.
  • Communicates with supervisor daily to turn in required reports, bore logs, etc...
  • Ability to properly clean and maintain the equipment, including winterizing equipment.
  • Strive for optimal production while working safely and performing quality work.
  • Ensures all work is performed to quality standard while always complying with proper safety standards/procedures and work practices/policies & procedures according to EPC and OSHA/ANSI standards.
  • Assist with filling water tanks and adding chemicals when needed.
  • Hook up proper equipment such as reamer, swivel etc.
  • Make minor repairs/change out wearable parts such as jaw dyes etc. 

WHAT WILL HELP YOU STAND OUT

  • High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Valid Class A CDL is required for the Level 2 & Level 3 role. Tanker and HazMat endorsements are preferred. 
  • At least 3-5 years’ of drilling and equipment operator experience.
  • Six Sigma Yellow Belt Certification is preferred.
  • Working knowledge of telecommunications and reading prints.
  • Knowledge of underground pot holing and locating
  • Ability to operate equipment, including, but not limited to directional drills, locating systems, trencher, backhoe, excavators.
  • Work with locator/operator to locate utilities during the bore process
  • Must have the ability to work safely, with or without supervision.
  • Able to safely work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to listen to and implement directions.
  • Knowledge of operation and maintenance of equipment.
  • Daily inspection on bore rig and other equipment.
  • Ability to navigate various terrains, managing equipment, safety equipment and tools. Basic understanding of power and how the strike alert & grounding works and when to use it.
  • Operating a variety of drilling equipment, excavators, locators, air compressors, missiles, or willingness to learn
  • HDD certifications are preferred. 
  • OSHA 10 Certification is required. 

WHAT WE ARE OFFERING

  • Full-time opportunity in a fast-growth company!
  • Opportunity to work autonomously. None of that micromanaging garbage. We hate that!
  • Competitive pay
  • Comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, vision)
  • Retirement plan with company match
  • Company paid time-off.
  • Weekly paychecks! 

WHAT TO EXPECT

  • Outdoors environment which may require exposure to elements, including but not limited to wind, rain, heat, cold, snow, sleet, mud, etc. 
  • May be required to stand, sit, bend, twist, and reach as part of the job.
  • Extended periods of standing on your feet may be required.
  • Must be able to travel to and from job locations, which may vary depending on customer and contract. 
  • May be required to lift up to 80 pounds.
  • Must be able to pass a background check, drug screen, or other job-related pre-hire screenings related to the job.
  • This position may require overnight travel for projects, which may be for extended periods of time (4+ consecutive weeks).