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Direct Horizontal Drilling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

W3Global Inc.

Operations Director

Denver, CO

$100K - $120K/yr

Position Summary The Operations Director leads all construction operations, including horizontal drilling, civil/dirt work, splicing, and locating. This role is responsible for managing projects from ...

Expand Energy

Geosteerer

Oklahoma City, OK

... direct supervision, in order to provide the best guidance for success. The Geosteerer will work a ... Working knowledge of horizontal drilling, directional surveys, and geosteering concepts * Working ...

Expand Energy

Geosteerer

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

... direct supervision, in order to provide the best guidance for success. The Geosteerer will work a ... Working knowledge of horizontal drilling, directional surveys, and geosteering concepts * Working ...

Crucial Link Group

$24 - $34/hr

Crucial Link is recruiting for this Direct Hire position in Cleveland. Please review the ... We specialize in precision milling, drilling, and boring , serving a wide range of industries ...

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All JobsDirect Horizontal Drilling Jobs

Direct Horizontal Drilling information

See salary details

$20

$41

$69

How much do direct horizontal drilling jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct horizontal drilling in the United States is $41.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.38 and $44.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What type of drilling pays the most?

In the field of direct horizontal drilling, pay rates are generally higher for experienced workers involved in complex projects, such as those requiring advanced skills in underground utility installation or working in challenging environments. Specialized roles, certifications, and overtime can also increase earnings in this industry.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in Direct Horizontal Drilling, and how can they be navigated on the job?

Professionals in Direct Horizontal Drilling often encounter challenges such as unpredictable subsurface conditions, equipment malfunctions, and maintaining borehole stability over long distances. Successfully navigating these issues requires strong problem-solving skills, thorough pre-job planning, and close collaboration with geologists, engineers, and field crews. Effective communication and adaptability are key, as the team must quickly respond to changing site conditions and technical complications to keep projects on schedule and within budget.

What is Direct Horizontal Drilling?

Direct Horizontal Drilling refers to a specialized technique in the oil, gas, and utility industries used to install pipelines, conduits, or cables underground with minimal surface disruption. It involves drilling a horizontal borehole beneath the ground, allowing for the installation of infrastructure under obstacles like roads, rivers, or buildings. This method is valued for its efficiency, reduced environmental impact, and ability to access hard-to-reach locations. Companies that provide direct horizontal drilling services often use advanced equipment and technology to ensure precision and safety during the process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Direct Horizontal Drilling Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Direct Horizontal Drilling Operator, you need a solid understanding of drilling techniques, geological formations, and safety protocols, typically supported by vocational training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with horizontal directional drilling (HDD) rigs, tracking systems, and drilling fluid management tools is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help operators adapt to changing site conditions and collaborate with crews. These skills ensure safe, efficient drilling operations and minimize costly errors or environmental impact.

What is the difference between Direct Horizontal Drilling vs Horizontal Drilling Operator?

AspectDirect Horizontal DrillingHorizontal Drilling Operator
CredentialsTypically requires CDL, safety certifications, and technical trainingRequires similar certifications, including CDL and safety training
Work EnvironmentUnderground, construction sites, oil & gas fieldsConstruction sites, oil & gas fields, underground projects
Industry UsagePrimarily in oil & gas, utility installation, environmental projectsOil & gas, utilities, construction industries

Both roles involve working in underground or construction environments and require similar certifications. Direct Horizontal Drilling is a specialized method used in installing pipelines and utilities with minimal surface disruption, while Horizontal Drilling Operators operate the equipment and oversee the drilling process. Understanding these differences helps clarify job responsibilities and required skills in the industry.

More about Direct Horizontal Drilling jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Direct Horizontal Drilling jobs? The most popular types of Direct Horizontal Drilling jobs are:
What states have the most Direct Horizontal Drilling jobs? States with the most job openings for Direct Horizontal Drilling jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Direct Horizontal Drilling jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Direct Horizontal Drilling jobs are:
Direct Horizontal Drilling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Horizontal Drilling job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 85% Full Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,248 per year, or $41.5 per hour.

Horizontal Directional Drilling Operator / Locator

Advanced Directional Drilling Solutions

Daytona Beach, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job description


Advanced Directional Drilling, Inc. is seeking a reliable, honest, hard-working Horizontal Drilling Operator / Locator for the East Coast Florida area! Must possess good problem- solving skills and be adaptable. Horizontal Drilling Operator / Locators are responsible for running a variety of tasks associated with underground construction. Will operate heavy equipment and tools associated with construction activities. Must maintain and operate equipment per safety and company guidelines.
The primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Operator/Driller Responsibilities:

  • Operate horizontal directional drill rig (HDD)
  • Operate excavation equipment (backhoe, trencher, hydro-vac, etc.)
  • Operate and maintain vehicles and equipment safely at all times
  • Report vehicle and equipment maintenance requirements to construction manager
  • Repair damaged equipment as directed by the project superintendent
  • Document deficiencies in safety practices/equipment to business unit lead
  • Must be able to communicate with others to convey information effectively.
  • Maintain positive public relations (interact with the customer/public in a courteous manner)
Locator Responsibilities:

  • Walk and confirm bore path, spot utilities
  • Perform job site analysis (JSA) including completion of paperwork
  • Ensure there are proper clearances to install the product per standards and company policies
  • Record the depth of the tool head as required
  • Ensure the drill head is in a good position at the exit pit to connect the product
  • Conducts foreman responsibilities, such as overseeing laborers and/or crew member's work and monitors productivity
  • Oversee laborers and/or crew member’s work and monitor time usage is productive
  • Able to follow and complete tasks assigned by the business unit lead
  • Make sure job site is Safe for employee’s and pedestrians
  • Ensure one call tickets are current
  • Able to read specs and prints
Qualifications:

  • Preferred 2+ years of related experience as a horizontal directional drill rig operator and backhoe operator. Ability to develop bore path plan to ensure all utilities located
  • Preferred 1+ year experience with Falcon F5 Locator;
  • Various related equipment operating experience required, such as mini excavator, Vac Truck, etc
  • Inspect / maintain job equipment and tools
  • Have a clean driving record/; has a CDL license;
  • Must be able to travel thru out Florida with some overnight stay as necessary
  • Basic Computer Skills- e-mail, photo editing, maintain bore logs, red-line drawings, PDF Prints, Digi-mark Software, and basic Excel
Job Type: Full-time

Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $20.00 - $35.00 per hour
Benefits:
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Vision insurance
Schedule:
  • 10 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person