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Bore Rig Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

GridSource

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 ...

GridSource

Directional Drill Operator

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Performs proper maintenance of directional drill rig and mini excavator by greasing, oiling, and ... Must perform thorough walkout of bore path prior to directional drill to ensure path can be drilled ...

Beusa Energy Group

Frac Move Tech

The Woodlands, TX · On-site

$18.50 - $23/hr

Follow and enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), lockout/tagout, and environmental ... Equipment Setup and Movement * Assist in the rig up, rig down, and transportation of large bore ...

Evolution Workspace

Frac Move Tech

The Woodlands, TX · On-site

$18.50 - $23/hr

Follow and enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), lockout/tagout, and environmental ... Equipment Setup and Movement * Assist in the rig up, rig down, and transportation of large bore ...

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Bore Rig Operator information

See Texas salary details

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How much do bore rig operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 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?

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 as a bore rig operator?

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.

How much does a bore rig operator make?

A bore rig operator typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment operated. Skilled operators with certifications and safety training can earn higher wages, especially in remote or high-demand areas.

What are popular job titles related to Bore Rig Operator jobs in Texas?

For Bore Rig Operator jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Bore Rig Operator jobs in Texas look for?

The top searched job categories for Bore Rig Operator jobs in Texas are:

Bore Rig Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bore Rig Operator job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,123 per year, or $14.5 per hour.

HDD Directional Driller / Locator

Cascade Process Controls

Floresville, TX • On-site

$22.50 - $27.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Key responsibilities

  • Operate Ditch Witch HDD rigs to perform pilot bore, back-ream, and pullback operations according to the designed plan and profile.

  • Operate walkover locating systems to track bore path, verify depth, and communicate steering commands to the rig operator.

  • Manage site safety activities including submitting locate tickets, potholing utilities, installing markers, and restoring work areas.

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
CPC is hiring a HDD Directional Driller / Locator that will operate and maintain Ditch Witch horizontal directional drilling equipment to install conduit, fiber, pipeline, and utility crossings safely and on-profile. This is a dual-capability role: the successful candidate can run the rig and walk the bore with a locator, and is expected to move between both seats as crew needs dictate. Work is performed on oilfield, midstream, industrial, municipal, and telecom projects.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Drilling Operations
  • Operate Ditch Witch JT-series HDD rigs (JT20-JT40 class) for pilot bore, back-ream, and pullback.
  • Execute bores to the designed plan and profile - depth, alignment, entry/exit angles, and clearance from existing utilities.
  • Select and change downhole tooling: bits, housings, transmitters, reamers, swivels, and pullback assemblies.
  • Mix, monitor, and manage drilling fluid (bentonite/polymer) to match soil conditions; adjust ratios for sand, clay, caliche, and rock.
  • Monitor thrust, pullback, rotation torque, and mud pressure; recognize and respond to downhole problems before they become failures.
  • Identify and control inadvertent returns (frac-outs); execute containment and cleanup per project plan and permit conditions.
  • Maintain accurate bore logs and as-built records for every shot.

Locating
  • Operate walkover locating systems (Subsite, DigiTrak Falcon F5/F2, or equivalent); calibrate transmitters and verify accuracy before entry.
  • Track and communicate pitch, roll, depth, and temperature; call steering commands clearly to the rig operator.
  • Identify and work through active interference (power lines, traffic loops, cathodic protection, rebar, fiber).
  • Mark the bore path on the surface and confirm depth of cover at all crossings.
  • Verify and sign off on as-built bore data at completion.

Site & Utility Protection
  • Submit and manage 811 / One Call tickets; verify locate marks before breaking ground.
  • Pothole and daylight existing utilities at all crossings per company and client damage-prevention requirements.
  • Install tracer wire, warning tape, and markers as specified.
  • Set traffic control per MUTCD and client requirements; restore work areas and right-of-way to specification.

Equipment & Maintenance
  • Perform daily pre-trip and post-trip inspections on the rig, mud system, support equipment, and trailers.
  • Perform routine maintenance: greasing, fluid checks, drill rod inspection and rotation, mud pump and mixer service.
  • Load, secure, and transport the drill and support equipment between job sites.
  • Report damage, wear, and mechanical issues promptly; keep equipment records current.

Safety
  • Lead or participate in daily JSAs and tailgate safety meetings.
  • Comply with all Cascade, client, and OSHA requirements including PPE, LOTO, excavation and trench safety, gas monitoring, and confined space entry where applicable.
  • Exercise stop-work authority without hesitation when conditions are unsafe.
  • Support Cascade's standing in ISNetworld, Avetta, and Veriforce-governed client programs through clean incident and compliance performance.

Requirements
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • 3+ years operating HDD equipment (Ditch Witch preferred; Vermeer or equivalent considered).
  • 2+ years walkover locating experience with proven ability to keep a bore on profile.
  • Ability to read and work from bore plans, plan-and-profile drawings, and utility as-builts.
  • Working knowledge of drilling fluid theory and soil conditions across Gulf Coast, Permian, and desert Southwest geology.
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable motor vehicle record; reliable transportation to the yard or reporting location.
  • Drug and alcohol testing is a condition of employment. Candidates must pass a pre-employment screen and remain enrolled in Cascade's ongoing testing program, including random, post-incident, reasonable-suspicion, and client-mandated site testing.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Class A CDL with air brake endorsement - a plus, not required.
  • DOT Operator Qualification (OQ) covered tasks for pipeline work.
  • OSHA 10 or 30, Safeland / Safety Council, first aid and CPR, competent person training.
  • Rock drilling and mixed-face experience.
  • TWIC card.
  • Bilingual English / Spanish.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORK ENVIRONMENT
  • Regularly lift, carry, and maneuver 50-75 lbs; occasional team lifts above that weight.
  • Stand, walk, bend, and kneel on uneven terrain for the duration of a shift.
  • Work outdoors in extreme heat, cold, wind, rain, and dust.
  • 10-12 hour shifts, six days per week during active projects; night and weekend work as scheduled.
  • Extended travel with overnight stays; multi-week hitches on remote projects.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
  • Hourly rate depending on experience; overtime after 40 hours.
  • Per diem and lodging on out-of-town work.
  • Company truck or vehicle allowance and fuel card for qualifying roles.
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • 401(k) with company match.
  • Paid time off and holidays.

Mako CPC LP dba Cascade Process Controls is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Cascade Process Controls is a drug-free workplace and participates in E-Verify.

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