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Bore Rig Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Directional Drill Bore Foreman

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$21.75 - $27/hr

... operating Horizontal Directional Drill rig. This includes maneuvering directional drill rig in ... Must perform thorough walkout of bore path prior to directional drill to ensure path can be drilled ...

You will operate various equipment such as excavators, trenchers, or directional bore machines. HDD ... Safely operate the HDD rig and associated drilling equipment according to project specifications ...

... operating customer at the well site to provide fishing expertise and direction during wellbore ... Directs rig crew on the rig floor during operation of fishing tools down hole * Oversees procedures ...

... operating customer at the well site to provide fishing expertise and direction during wellbore ... Directs rig crew on the rig floor during operation of fishing tools down hole * Oversees procedures ...

... operating customer at the well site to provide fishing expertise and direction during wellbore ... Directs rig crew on the rig floor during operation of fishing tools down hole * Oversees procedures ...

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Bore Rig Operator information

See Texas salary details

$6

$14

$24

How much do bore rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for bore rig operator in Texas is $14.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $7.84 and $18.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Bore Rig Operator job?

A Bore Rig Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining drilling rigs used for boring holes in the ground for utilities, construction, or geotechnical purposes. They interpret job plans, set up equipment, and ensure drilling is performed safely and efficiently. Operators also perform routine maintenance on the rig and adhere to safety regulations to prevent accidents. This role often requires experience with heavy machinery, mechanical skills, and knowledge of soil conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Bore Rig Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Bore Rig Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, operational knowledge of drilling equipment, and typically a high school diploma or relevant vocational training. Familiarity with drilling rigs, safety systems, and industry certifications such as OSHA or a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) are often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork help operators excel in this field. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient drilling operations and minimizing downtime or hazards on-site.

What are some common challenges faced by Bore Rig Operators on the job?

Bore Rig Operators often work in challenging outdoor conditions, where weather and terrain can impact both safety and equipment performance. They must troubleshoot mechanical issues, manage the precision of borehole placement, and maintain rigorous safety standards during all phases of drilling. Operators frequently coordinate with engineers, surveyors, and site supervisors to meet project specifications. Staying adaptable and up-to-date with safety protocols helps overcome these challenges and ensures consistent project success.
Infographic showing various Bore Rig Operator job openings in Texas as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $30,123 per year, or $14.5 per hour.

Horizontal Directional Drill Operator (Telecommunications)

Etheridge Pipeline & Conduit

Houston, TX • On-site

$25 - $45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


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).