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Directional Bore Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

$22 - $27/hr

Track the drill head and communicate depth, pitch, roll, direction, and steering corrections to the drill operator. * Operate DCI/DigiTrak and Underground Magnetics locating systems. * Review bore ...

$22 - $27/hr

Track the drill head and communicate depth, pitch, roll, direction, and steering corrections to the drill operator. * Operate DCI/DigiTrak and Underground Magnetics locating systems. * Review bore ...

Directional Drill Locator

New Richmond, WI ยท On-site

$24.75 - $30.75/hr

... bore path is accurate and avoids existing underground utilities. This role requires high technical proficiency, a keen eye for safety, and seamless communication with the Drill Operator. What you'll ...

S. fiber broadband network construction contractor operating in 42 states. It builds more than just ... Properly document all work completed to include pothole and bore logs * Perform conduit splicing ...

S. fiber broadband network construction contractor operating in 42 states. It builds more than just ... Properly document all work completed to include pothole and bore logs * Perform conduit splicing ...

S. fiber broadband network construction contractor operating in 42 states. It builds more than just ... Properly document all work completed to include pothole and bore logs * Perform conduit splicing ...

Drill Operator

Elkhorn, WI ยท On-site

$20 - $30/hr

As an Operator I, II, or III, you will ultimately be responsible for operating directional drilling equipment, locating predetermined bore paths, and supporting underground utility construction ...

Drill Operator

Beaver Dam, WI ยท On-site

$20 - $30/hr

As an Operator I, II, or III, you will ultimately be responsible for operating directional drilling equipment, locating predetermined bore paths, and supporting underground utility construction ...

Drill Operator

Janesville, WI ยท On-site

$20 - $30/hr

As an Operator I, II, or III, you will ultimately be responsible for operating directional drilling equipment, locating predetermined bore paths, and supporting underground utility construction ...

Showing results 21-40

Directional Bore Operator information

See Wisconsin salary details

$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 Wisconsin is $26.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.56 and $29.13 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.

What are popular job titles related to Directional Bore Operator jobs in Wisconsin? For Directional Bore Operator jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Directional Bore Operator job openings in Wisconsin 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 $54,804 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Directional Drill Opreator

Quad Optical Services, LLC

Green Bay, WI โ€ข On-site

$29 - $38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Join the fiber-optic utility construction industry with QOS Fiber! Build the high-speed networks of the future – supporting the evolution of the digital economy!QOS Fiber (Quad Optical Services) is hiring motivated individuals to join our directional drilling crews in the growing fiber optic utility construction industry. If you enjoy working outdoors, operating heavy equipment, learning specialized skills, and being part of a hardworking team, this is an opportunity to build a long-term career in underground utility construction. At QOS Fiber, you will help install the fiber optic infrastructure powering America's digital future while working with experienced drilling professionals in a fast-paced, hands-on environment. QOS Fiber is a Veteran-Friendly Employer committed to safety, quality, teamwork, and employee development.We offer competitive pay and a strong benefits package starting with a $2,000.00 sign-on bonus also includes medical, dental, and life insurance, short-term and long-term disability coverage, paid holidays, paid vacation time, and a 401(k) plan with company match. Employees also have access to career advancement opportunities, on-the-job training, CDL training assistance, additional compensation for obtaining a CDL, and stable long-term employment within one of the fastest-growing industries in the country. Pay rate is $29-38 hourly. As a Directional Drill Operator, you will work alongside experienced drill operators and underground utility crews installing fiber optic conduit and telecommunications infrastructure. This role focuses on learning and supporting horizontal directional drilling operations, including drill setup, bore path support, locating assistance, mud system management, conduit placement, jobsite preparation, equipment maintenance, and safe operation practices. You will gain hands-on experience with directional drilling equipment while learning how to read job layouts, maintain production efficiency, avoid underground utility conflicts, and support successful bore completion. Responsibilities include assisting drill operators with daily directional drilling activities, supporting underground utility installation crews, maintaining drilling equipment and tooling, monitoring drilling fluids and material usage, assisting with utility locating and bore tracking, transporting materials and equipment, and helping maintain a safe and productive jobsite. Employees are expected to follow all DOT regulations, OSHA requirements, company safety initiatives, and underground utility protection procedures. Strong communication, attention to detail, teamwork, and a willingness to learn are essential to success in this role. Qualified applicants should have at least one year of directional drilling, underground utility construction, excavation, heavy equipment operation, or related construction experience. Experience with fiber optic installation, telecommunications construction, HDD drilling operations, utility locating, vacuum excavation, or conduit placement is highly preferred. Applicants must possess a valid driver's license. A CDL is preferred but not required, and QOS Fiber is willing to assist qualified employees in obtaining their CDL. Candidates should have a strong work ethic, mechanical aptitude, the ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, and the motivation to grow within the company. This position offers hands-on work, variety, travel, and the opportunity to learn a highly specialized and in-demand skilled trade. Most projects operate on Monday through Thursday / Friday schedules if project requires or a makeup weather day is needed, allowing employees to be home on weekends. Work is primarily local and in-state, with regional travel required depending on project needs. QOS Fiber encourages applicants with backgrounds in directional drilling, underground utilities, excavation, heavy equipment operation, construction, farming, landscaping, CDL driving, military service, and other outdoor labor industries to apply.Key FeaturesOutdoor work.Hands-on.Variety in tasks, objectives, and location.On-the-job training.Training/learn a skilled trade.Local / In-State travel. Regional travel as required by the project.Career advancement opportunities.Stable employment.Monday – Thursday/Friday work schedule. Home on weekends.