ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Directional Bore Drilling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Arrow Electric Co LLC

Directional Bore Operator

Louisville, KY · On-site

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

BOWLIN GROUP LLC

Directional Bore Operator W/Sign on Bonus

Hebron, KY · On-site

$23.50 - $29/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Drill Your Way to a Rewarding Career! Bowlin Group is seeking an experienced Directional Bore Operator to join our growing telecommunications construction team. If you have experience operating ...

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 ...

RDR Utility Services Group

Directional Driller

Kinsman, OH · On-site

$20.50 - $25.50/hr

Qualifications: - Operate and maneuver heavy equipment including directional bore machines ... drilling. - Perform drilling operations to dig holes and trenches for construction projects ...

GridSource

Bore Drill Locator

Micanopy, FL · On-site

$21 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Drilling equipment (JT5 / D10x15). * Previous directional bore locating experience required * Local applicants preferred * Pre-employment testing includes MVR, drug screen, and background check

GridSource

Directional Drill Bore Foreman

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$21.75 - $27/hr

... drilling process. * Must have detailed knowledge and experience operating Horizontal Directional ... Must perform thorough walkout of bore path prior to directional drill to ensure path can be drilled ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDirectional Bore Drilling Jobs

Directional Bore Drilling information

See salary details

$13

$26

$34

How much do directional bore drilling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 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.

Is directional bore drilling a good career?

Directional bore drilling is a specialized construction and utility installation job that offers steady employment opportunities and requires technical skills, including knowledge of drilling equipment and safety protocols. It can be physically demanding and often involves working outdoors in various weather conditions, but it provides a clear career path with potential for advancement and certification. Overall, it can be a good career choice for those interested in technical work and infrastructure development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a directional bore drilling operator?

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.

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.
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,296 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Directional Bore Operator

Arrow Electric Co LLC

Louisville, KY • On-site

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Come Energize your Career with Arrow Electric!
We are growing and looking for talent to grow with us.
Since 1957, Arrow Electric has provided trustworthy, dependable, and cost-effective Electrical, Installations, and Services with the highest quality workmanship. We embrace expanding technologies and maintain a highly trained workforce to keep us at the forefront of our industry.
Arrow Electric highly values our Team Members, striving to put employees first and continually working for better ways to improve the Employee Experience. As a company, Arrow Electric is large enough to offer a truly diverse set of work environments ranging in size and scope but still provide individual career attention that focuses on your personal growth towards success.
When you join the Arrow Team, you are joining a company that lives and breathes its Core Values and one driven each day by our Core Purpose: "Empowering Our People To Power Our Customers and Communities!"
We will set goals and expectations. We will challenge you to achieve personal excellence.
That is the One Arrow Way to Career Success that comes with Arrow Opportunity!
POSITION SUMMARY
The Directional Boring Rig Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of horizontal directional drilling (HDD) equipment used to install underground conduit and utilities for roadway infrastructure, traffic signal systems, lighting, fiber optic, and electrical distribution projects.
This role requires interpreting bore plans, operating drilling equipment, and coordinating with crew members to ensure accurate bore paths while minimizing surface disruption and maintaining compliance with project specifications and safety requirements.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:
  • Operate horizontal directional drilling (HDD) rigs and support equipment
  • Read and interpret bore plans, utility maps, and construction drawings
  • Set up and align drilling equipment based on bore path requirements
  • Perform pilot bores, reaming, and product pullback operations
  • Monitor drilling parameters including pressure, torque, and fluid flow
  • Coordinate with locator/tracker to maintain bore accuracy
  • Identify and avoid underground utility conflicts
  • Mix and manage drilling fluids for optimal performance
  • Maintain drilling logs, production records, and job documentation
  • Conduct routine equipment inspections and minor maintenance
  • Communicate with Foreman and crew to ensure efficient operations
  • Assist with job site setup, restoration, and cleanup

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES)
  • High school diploma or GED preferred
  • 3-5 years of construction or underground utility experience preferred
  • 1-3 years of HDD equipment operation experience preferred (or equivalent heavy equipment experience)
  • Basic understanding of underground utility installation practices
  • Ability to read basic construction drawings and utility maps

Additional Skills & Abilities:
  • Proficiency in operating HDD equipment
  • Strong spatial awareness and ability to maintain bore alignment
  • Mechanical aptitude and ability to perform minor maintenance
  • Problem-solving skills in varying soil and site conditions
  • Effective communication with crew and leadership
  • Attention to detail and accuracy
  • Ability to work in a team-oriented environment
  • Strong safety awareness

WHAT WE OFFER
  • Competitive Wages
  • Health Insurance: 3 plans to choose from through United Health Care (Effective Date of Hire)
  • Dental and Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Short-Term Disability (Company Provided)
  • Long-Term Disability (Company Provided)
  • Employee Paid Policies Available: Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, and Accident Policies
  • 401(k) with Company Matching: (Effective Date of Hire)
  • Paid Holidays (Eligibility Starts Immediately)
  • Paid Time Off (Eligibility Starts Immediately)
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Paid Jury Duty Leave
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Employee Referral Bonus Program
  • Performance Evaluations Program
  • Arrow SWAG Store (Company-Logo Clothing and Merchandise)
  • Power Tool Incentive Program
  • Safety, Skills, and Leadership Development/Training
  • Electrical License Continuing Education and Renewals Paid

Arrow Electric Co., Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
EOE AA M/F/Vet/Disability
One Team! One Arrow!

Apply