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Directional Bore Drilling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

BOWLIN GROUP LLC

Directional Bore Operator

Hebron, KY · On-site

$23.50 - $29/hr

We are seeking a skilled and experienced Directional Bore Operator to join our team. The primary ... Operate directional drilling equipment to install underground utilities. * Read and interpret ...

Arrow Electric Co LLC

Directional Bore Operator

Louisville, KY · On-site

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

This role requires interpreting bore plans, operating drilling equipment, and coordinating with ... Operate horizontal directional drilling (HDD) rigs and support equipment * Read and interpret bore ...

Cable Services Company Inc

$1 - $50/hr

Prepare the drill fluid based on site conditions prior to boring commencing * In conjunction with bore crew, locate/operate the directional drill using the selected bore heads and back reamers to ...

MPS Group

Directional Drill Operators

Traverse City, MI · On-site

Operate and oversee directional drilling equipment to install underground utilities with precision and accuracy. * Perform drill set-up and ensure proper operation of directional bore/drill equipment.

Essel

Directional Driller

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$20 - $40/hr

Paying $20 - $40/hr. based off experience Looking for a skilled Directional Bore Operator who will be responsible for operating and maintaining directional drilling equipment for the installation of ...

Essel

Directional Driller

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$20 - $40/hr

Paying $20 - $40/hr. based off experience Looking for a skilled Directional Bore Operator who will be responsible for operating and maintaining directional drilling equipment for the installation of ...

Essel

Directional Driller

San Carlos, CA

$20 - $40/hr

Paying $20 - $40/hr. based off experience Looking for a skilled Directional Bore Operator who will be responsible for operating and maintaining directional drilling equipment for the installation of ...

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Directional Bore Drilling information

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$13

$26

$34

How much do directional bore drilling jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for directional bore drilling in the United States is $26.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To succeed as a Directional Bore Drilling Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, understanding of underground utility systems, and relevant experience or vocational training in construction or drilling operations. Familiarity with horizontal directional drilling (HDD) equipment, locator systems, and safety certifications such as OSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are critical soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe and precise drilling operations, minimizing risk and maximizing project efficiency.

Is directional drilling a good career?

Directional bore drilling is a specialized construction and engineering job that involves operating drilling equipment to create underground pathways for utilities or pipelines. It offers steady employment, often requires technical skills and certifications, and can involve working in challenging outdoor environments. The career can be financially rewarding and offers opportunities for advancement with experience and additional training.

What are some common challenges faced by Directional Bore Drilling professionals on job sites?

Directional Bore Drilling professionals often encounter challenges such as navigating unpredictable soil conditions, avoiding existing underground utilities, and adapting to tight workspaces, especially in urban environments. Effective communication and coordination with project managers, engineers, and utility locators are crucial to prevent damage and ensure safety. Staying updated with the latest drilling technology and adhering strictly to safety protocols are also key aspects of the role. These challenges require strong problem-solving skills and adaptability to ensure successful and efficient project completion.

What is the difference between Directional Bore Drilling vs Horizontal Drilling?

AspectDirectional Bore DrillingHorizontal Drilling
CredentialsDrilling licenses, safety certificationsSame as directional bore drilling
Work EnvironmentUnderground, confined spaces, construction sitesUnderground, construction, utility installation
Industry UsageUtilities, oil & gas, constructionOil & gas, utilities, environmental projects

Directional bore drilling and horizontal drilling both involve underground excavation techniques requiring similar certifications and work environments. The main difference is that directional bore drilling is used for precise underground paths, while horizontal drilling extends laterally for utility or pipeline installation. Both are essential in construction and energy industries, often overlapping in skills and applications.

What is directional bore drilling?

Directional bore drilling, also known as horizontal directional drilling (HDD), is a trenchless method used to install underground pipes, conduits, or cables along a predetermined path. This technique allows for the installation of utilities beneath obstacles like roads, rivers, or buildings without the need for extensive digging. It involves drilling a pilot hole along a specific route and then enlarging the hole to accommodate the desired utility. Directional bore drilling is widely used in construction, telecommunications, and oil and gas industries due to its efficiency and minimal environmental impact.

What type of drilling pays the most?

In directional bore drilling, the highest-paying roles typically involve complex projects such as horizontal or offshore drilling, which require advanced skills, specialized equipment, and certifications. These jobs often demand longer hours and higher risk, leading to increased compensation compared to standard vertical drilling positions.

How much does a directional drill locator make?

A directional drill locator typically earns between $20 and $35 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $70,000. Pay depends on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the projects worked on.

How much does a directional bore operator make?

A directional bore operator typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with specialized equipment and safety training may earn higher wages, especially in regions with high demand for underground utility installation and infrastructure projects.
More about Directional Bore Drilling jobs
What states have the most Directional Bore Drilling jobs? States with the most job openings for Directional Bore Drilling jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Directional Bore Drilling jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Directional Bore Drilling jobs are:
Directional Bore Drilling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Directional Bore Drilling job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,296 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Directional Bore/Drilling Laborer/Locator

Sorensen Companies, Inc.

Mesa, AZ • On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

SCI, a Congruex Company, is looking for a Directional Bore Laborer/Locator to join our construction team. Learn more about our operating unit at www.congruex.com/SCI.

Who is Congruex

Congruex designs and builds broadband and wireless communications infrastructure. The work we do enables everything in the modern world to operate, from healthcare and energy to transportation and social interactions.

We deliver turn-key network solutions under a single platform by aligning our engineering and in-market construction operating units. Our vision is to be the best end-to-end provider of network services in the U.S. and our core values of GRIT connect everything we do.

We are building tomorrow, together. Will you join us?

Your New Job

Job Summary:

Our operating unit provides underground utility services, and we are looking for a Direction Bore Laborer/Locator to join our team.

This position requires organization, timeliness, accuracy and great focus to detail and safety.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Travel may be required.
  • Able to communicate clear instructions to the driller to avoid damaging utilities.
  • Able to maintain equipment and communicate issues to fleet or Foreman.
  • Must understand current 811 Locatelaws.
  • Working as a team to complete tasks.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

  • CDL Preferred
  • Must be able to mix proper mud for ground conditions
  • Must be able to properly calibrate sonde.
  • Valid Driver License and clean driving record Required.
  • Lifting 50 to 75lbs
  • Must have great communication skills.
  • A positive can-do attitude and openness to trying things new ways.
  • GRIT values Guts, Reliability, Innovation, and Teamwork

Desired Skills & Qualifications:

  • Experience using a SUBSITE or UMAG locating system.
  • Possess Mechanical Skills.
Why Work At Congruex

No matter what role you play, you are an important part of the One Congruex Family. We offer:

  • Medical, Dental & Vision Benefits
  • 401(k) Program with a Company Match
  • 10 paid Holidays
  • Paid Maternity & Parental Leave
  • Paid Basic Life Insurance & Voluntary Options
  • Paid Short & Long Term Disability
  • The pillars of Congruex culture are GRIT, safety, inclusion, and family.

The Fine Print:

We will determine salary based on skills and experience in relation to the function of the role, as well as equity to employees in similar roles. Some benefits have eligibility criteria. All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at-will" employment relationship.