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Direct Horizontal Drilling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Horizontal Directional Drilling/Boring equipment and vehicles for installation of underground ... Repair damaged equipment as directed by the team lead or project manager. * Perform other duties ...

Direct geoscience technician staff on updating databases with tops, production data, core analysis ... Experience with horizontal drilling and well operations; unconventional resource assessment and ...

Horizontal Directional Drilling/Boring equipment and vehicles for installation of underground ... Repair damaged equipment as directed by the team lead or project manager. * Perform other duties ...

Horizontal Directional Drilling/Boring equipment and vehicles for installation of underground ... Repair damaged equipment as directed by the team lead or project manager. * Perform other duties ...

Dir Drill Op/Loc Foreman

Temple, TX ยท On-site

$22.50 - $27.75/hr

Operate Horizontal Directional Drill for installation of underground telecommunications cable ... Lead teams in the field effectively as needed and directed by the supervisor Qualifications About ...

Dir Drill Op/Loc Foreman

Temple, TX ยท On-site

$22.50 - $27.75/hr

Operate Horizontal Directional Drill for installation of underground telecommunications cable ... Lead teams in the field effectively as needed and directed by the supervisor Qualifications About ...

Dir Drill Op/Loc Foreman

Temple, TX ยท On-site

$22.50 - $27.75/hr

Operate Horizontal Directional Drill for installation of underground telecommunications cable ... Lead teams in the field effectively as needed and directed by the supervisor Qualifications About ...

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Direct Horizontal Drilling information

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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:
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.

Heavy Equipment Operator II

Spy Ego Media LLC

Havre, MT โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


Job description

At Spy Ego Media, we take pride in being at the forefront of the construction management industry, leading the way in building the infrastructure of tomorrow. As a trusted provider of comprehensive construction solutions, we specialize in managing projects across diverse sectors, including communications infrastructure (fiber and towers), data-centers, and storage solution build-outs.

PLEASE TAKE NOTE: We are currently seeking Heavy Equipment Operators that has good experience with Vibratory Utility Plows immediately for the surrounding areas of Darby, Kalispell, Browning, Havre and other locations throughout Montana. If you don't have this type of plow experience, please don't apply to this position, as new hires will need to hit the ground running. Our current projects are moving fast, and experience is a must at this time. More locations are starting soon. TRAVEL is required. If you currently reside outside the project sites listed above, you will be required to travel for extended periods of time and will receive daily per diem reimbursement.

Benefit Package includes:

  • Employer Paid Health Insurance
  • 50% paid dental/Vision plans
  • Disability, Critical Illness, Hospital, Legal plan available
  • 401K with 4% matching
  • Per diem for travel
  • Paid Time Off & Sick Time

Summary of Position: Our day starts with a safety briefing and travel to our job site followed by loading/unloading trailers, setting up materials, fueling equipment, operating hand/power tools, trenchless machines and heavy equipment, surveying, and other related construction activities.

Performs routine inspection and maintenance on vehicles such as checking oil, water, and tires. Operates Boring Equipment to place fiber conduit through boring/horizontal drilling subterranean runs. Operates graders for leveling and operates tractors to load materials such as dirt and rocks. Operates backhoe and front-end loaders as required.

Duties / Responsibilities:

  • Horizontal Directional Drilling/Boring equipment and vehicles for installation of underground telecommunications cable conduit, including fiber optic cable.
  • Drilling and boring machine operation.
  • All phases of underground construction, including but are not limited to loading, digging, removal and placement of various types, sizes, and weights of construction materials and equipment.
  • Safely operate, maintain and work around heavy equipment and machinery including, but not limited to; all types of Directional Drills, Vermeer and/or Ditch Witch, locators, vibratory utility plow, various types of Trucks, Excavators, Forklifts, Dump trucks, etc.
  • Install and maintenance of underground utilities and verify in accordance with blueprints.
  • Loading and transporting materials and equipment to various job site locations.
  • Ensures safety of the public and other utilities underground facilities.
  • Will operate other heavy equipment and tools associated with construction activities, as needed.
  • Must inspect, maintain, and operate equipment per safety and company guidelines.
  • Report vehicle and equipment maintenance requirements to team lead.
  • Repair damaged equipment as directed by the team lead or project manager.
  • Perform other duties and tasks as assigned to help the team complete a project.

Required Skills & Abilities:

  • 2+ years of experience in the safe operation and maintaining of Vermeer, Ditch Witch, locators, vibratory plow is required. If you do not have this experience, please do not apply as we are on projects that require you to hit the ground running.
  • Knowledge of construction industry, general safety standards and procedures.
  • Read, understand, and interpret engineering plans and specifications.
  • Must be able to work independently at times and understand and implement construction safety procedures.
  • Must possess good problem- solving skills and be adaptable.
  • Various related equipment operating experience required, such as mini excavator, Vac Truck, etc.
  • Basic Computer Skills- e-mail, photo editing, maintain bore logs, red-line drawings, PDF Prints, Digi-mark Software, and basic Excel.
  • Operate horizontal directional drill rig (HDD).
  • Operate excavation equipment (backhoe, trencher, hydro-vac, etc.) as needed.
  • Must be able to communicate with others to convey information effectively.
  • Maintain positive public relations (interact with the customer/public in a courteous manner).
  • Able to follow and complete tasks assigned by the team lead.
  • Make sure the job site is safe for employees and pedestrians.
  • Able to read specs and prints.

Education and Experience:

  • 2+ years of experience in the safe operation and maintaining of Vermeer, Ditch Witch, locators, vibratory utility plows is required.
  • Work Experience: 2-4 yrs. experience with Heavy Equipment operation, and maintenance.
  • Industry Knowledge: 1+ yrs. of general knowledge of Utility Construction Procedures, including print reading.
  • Have knowledge of or be familiar with all procedures and associated tools and equipment necessary to install underground utilities in the most effective, safe, and profitable manner.
  • Comprehension of ground conditions for drilling/boring.
  • High School graduate or has obtained GED. Additional Hiring Requirements:
  • Must be able to travel throughout various locations in/out of state with some overnight stays as necessary. Company vehicles are provided during your workday, but employees must have reliable transportation to get to/from their first job site.
  • Must have a cell phone to clock in/out of mobile application.
  • Must be able to pass a drug screen and criminal background check.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license for the state in which you reside.
  • Satisfactory results of a Motor Vehicle Report.
  • CDL highly preferred, but not required.
  • Ability to pass and maintain an interstate DOT Medical Card and meeting all Federal Interstate FMCSA requirements to operate a Commercial Motor Vehicle.
  • Verifying your legal right to work in the United States under the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 (IRCA).

Physical Demands:

  • Ability to work outdoors and to work in all types of outdoor weather.
  • Ability to walk, sit, stand, bend, twist, stoop, push, pull, carry, and lift as needed.
  • Ability to coordinate eyes, hands, feet, and limbs in performing skilled movement.
  • Ability to travel and be away from home for extended periods of time -100% of the position is traveling or in the field performing work in various locations.

Note: If no resume is provided, professional references will be required.