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Directional Bore Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Arrow Electric Co LLC

Directional Bore Operator

Louisville, KY · On-site

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

POSITION SUMMARY The Directional Boring Rig Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient ... This role requires interpreting bore plans, operating drilling equipment, and coordinating with ...

Cable Services Company Inc

$1 - $50/hr

Directional Bore Operator/ Locator Summary/Objective This position performs tasks required for the operation of directional drill including set-up and bore path completion for the construction ...

Essel

Directional Driller

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$20 - $40/hr

Directional Bore Operator Job Summary: Paying $20 - $40/hr. based off experience Looking for a skilled Directional Bore Operator who will be responsible for operating and maintaining directional ...

Essel

Directional Driller

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$20 - $40/hr

Directional Bore Operator Job Summary: Paying $20 - $40/hr. based off experience Looking for a skilled Directional Bore Operator who will be responsible for operating and maintaining directional ...

Essel

Directional Driller

San Carlos, CA

$20 - $40/hr

Directional Bore Operator Job Summary: Paying $20 - $40/hr. based off experience Looking for a skilled Directional Bore Operator who will be responsible for operating and maintaining directional ...

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Directional Bore Operator information

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$13

$26

$34

How much do directional bore operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for directional bore operator 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 some typical challenges faced by a directional bore operator, and how can they be managed on the job?

Directional Bore Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating around underground utilities, working in varying soil conditions, and maintaining precise bore paths. Effective communication with the locating crew and project managers is essential to avoid damaging existing infrastructure. Staying up-to-date with equipment maintenance, safety protocols, and continuous on-the-job learning can help operators overcome these challenges and ensure project success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a directional bore operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Directional Bore Operator, you need expertise in operating horizontal drilling equipment, a solid understanding of underground utility mapping, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with locating systems, drilling rigs, and safety certifications such as OSHA or confined space training is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills are essential soft skills for this role. These qualifications ensure safe, efficient, and precise underground installations, minimizing risk and project delays.

What does a directional bore operator do?

A Directional Bore Operator is responsible for operating specialized drilling equipment used to install underground utilities such as pipes, cables, and conduits without the need for traditional trenching. They steer and control the horizontal directional drilling (HDD) machines, following precise plans and avoiding existing underground obstacles. This role requires technical skill, knowledge of soil conditions, and a strong focus on safety and accuracy.

What is the difference between Directional Bore Operator vs Horizontal Driller?

AspectDirectional Bore OperatorHorizontal Driller
CertificationsOSHA safety training, CDL often preferredOSHA safety training, CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, utility installations, underground workConstruction sites, utility installations, underground work
Industry UsageUtility, telecommunications, oil & gasUtility, telecommunications, oil & gas

Both roles require similar certifications and work in comparable environments within the utility and construction industries. The main difference is that a Horizontal Driller specializes specifically in horizontal drilling techniques, often involving more complex drilling projects, while a Directional Bore Operator focuses on operating equipment to steer bore paths for various underground installations.

More about Directional Bore Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Directional Bore Operator jobs? Cities with the most Directional Bore Operator job openings:
What states have the most Directional Bore Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Directional Bore Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Directional Bore Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Directional Bore Operator jobs are:
Directional Bore Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Directional Bore Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person 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

Posted 29 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!

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