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Directional Bore Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Our operating unit provides underground utility services, and we are looking for a Direction Bore Locator to join our team. This position requires organization, timeliness, accuracy and great focus ...

Drill Operator

Cameron, WI · 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 ...

Diesel Mechanic

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

... owned and operated utility contractor. Position requires diverse knowledge on engines ... Working on equipment such as excavators, backhoes, bore rigs, hydrovacs, trucks and trailers ...

Drill Locator

Beaver Dam, WI · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Experience • Experience in underground utility locating or directional boring operations required ... bore path planning preferred. Skills and Abilities • Ability to mix proper drilling mud based on ...

Drill Locator

Elkhorn, WI · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Experience • Experience in underground utility locating or directional boring operations required ... bore path planning preferred. Skills and Abilities • Ability to mix proper drilling mud based on ...

Showing results 41-60

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 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.

Locator Technician for Horizontal Directional Drilling- Fiber Construction

TDS Telecom

Appleton, WI

$22.62 - $41.42/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 hours ago


TDS Telecom rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

72nd of 97 rated telecommunications companies


Job description

We are seeking a skilled and safety-focused Locator Technician to support Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) operations for underground utility construction projects. The HDD Locator is responsible for accurately tracking drill head location, depth, and alignment to ensure successful installation of underground utilities while maintaining compliance with safety standards and project specifications. This position is fulltime, yearround, and typically works close to home with only limited travel required for training.
 

Pay Transparency

The pay for this position ranges from *$22.62 to $41.42 per hour. *The listed pay range reflects the minimum and maximum base salary. Actual offers will be based on factors such as skills, qualifications, experience, location, and role-specific competencies. Some positions may also offer additional compensation, such as bonuses or equity awards.

This role includes a $5,000 signon bonus (payout terms apply) and may qualify for relocation assistance.

Outside Plant Construction Technicians can also earn up to $75 per week in incentives when your team meets production targets.

What You'll Do:

  • Operate and maintain HDD locating equipment to accurately track drill path and depth.
  • Communicate continuously with the drill operator to guide bore placement and avoid existing underground utilities.
  • Install, maintain, test, and repair buried and aerial fiber lines.
  • Operate construction equipment such as trenchers, plows, excavators, and locators.
  • Set pedestals, vaults, handholes, and other outside plant infrastructure.
  • Climb poles, ladders, and structures; operate bucket trucks as needed.
  • Support fiber splicing and repair activities.
  • Restore job sites and keep accurate project labels and markings.

Why You'll Love This Role:

  • Handson, outdoor work building real infrastructure that matters.
  • Flexible, fulltime yearround schedule.
  • Work with a company that has 50+ years of telecom experience and a strong reputation for fiber innovation.

Training:

  • Safety training, pole climbing, bucket truck operation.
  • Fiber optic basics: fusion splicing, fault detection, OTDR.
  • Construction equipment operation (drill rigs, trenchers, mini excavators).
  • CDL training for qualified associates.

The duration of training varies based on the team assignment. Training for underground teams is 3 weeks, with an additional 1 week required for aerial training.


What We’re Looking For:

  • Previous experience as an HDD Locator, Directional Drill Locator, or related underground utility construction role.
  • Ability to operate electromagnetic and walk-over locating systems.
  • Knowledge of underground utility construction practices and damage prevention procedures.
  • Motivated, detailoriented team players with strong communication skills.
  • Ability to work in various weather conditions and perform physical tasks such as climbing, kneeling, lifting, and digging.
  • Valid driver’s license and DOT eligibility.
  • 6+ months experience in customer service, utility or electrical work, OR a technical certification, OR military service.
  • Willingness to work overtime and varied shifts as needed.

What You’ll Do:

Conduct general construction tasks in various weather conditions, adhering to safety standards.

  • Aids in transporting construction equipment to and from the worksite.
  • Assists with and executes the installation of aerial and buried fiber based on maps, staking sheets, and locate markings.
  • Operates hand tools, cable locators, and testing equipment as needed.
  • Installs and sets enclosures, including buried and aerial vaults, pedestals, and handholes.
  • Climbs poles, ladders, towers, and other structures as required, utilizing a bucket truck when necessary.
  • Labels and marks fiber optic facilities accurately.
  • Utilizes dispatching applications and relevant tools for project coordination.
  • Supports fiber splicing, repairs, and outside plant maintenance activities.
  • Restores landscapes to original condition upon project completion.

The functions listed above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by associates assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities; other duties may be assigned.


Required Qualifications

  • 6+ months experience in any combination of the following areas: customer service, electrical or utility construction, -OR-technical certification (or higher) -OR- current military service, or prior military service with honorable discharge.
  • Must follow the TDS attendance guidelines in order to meet TDS’s business needs including but not limited to our obligations to our customers and to our customers’ needs.
  • Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license and remain eligible for DOT requirements.

Other Qualifications

  • Must have the ability to obtain a Class A CDL. A current CDL is preferred at hire, but TDS will train and certify eligible associates through its in-house CDL certification program after hire.
  • Physical requirements may vary based on company needs: Ability to climb poles, ladders, towers, and other structures as needed. Ability to kneel, dig, lift, and pull.
  • Upon hire, must successfully pass all components of the Safety Training course curriculum.
  • Upon hire, must successfully complete customer-specific requirements, which may include a background check administered by the customer.
  • Horizontal directional drilling experience preferred.
  • Basic understanding of telecommunication products and services.
  • Proven organizational skills and ability to multi-task.
  • May require occasional travel.
  • Must be willing to work overtime as needed. May be required to work various/swing shifts as business needs dictate.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

This role involves frequent physical activity, including standing, walking, kneeling, climbing, and lifting up to 50 pounds regularly (occasionally over 100 pounds). Vision requirements include close, distance, color, and depth perception.

Work conditions often include outdoor weather, attics, crawl spaces, and high-risk areas like high voltage zones, trenches, and manholes. Exposure to heavy equipment, fumes, vibration, extreme temperatures, and loud noise is common.

Do you meet the Required Qualifications but are unsure if your experience aligns with the Other Qualifications? We encourage you to apply! Research shows that many candidates hesitate to apply unless they meet 100% of the qualifications, even when they possess the skills and experience needed to succeed in the role. Experience and skills come in many forms, and they may not always match exactly what’s listed on paper, but they can still lead to success. If you meet the Required Qualifications and believe you have the potential to thrive in this role, we encourage you to apply today!

Benefits

We believe in taking care of our team, which is why we offer comprehensive benefits to support your health, financial well-being, and overall happiness. Join us and experience a work environment where your well-being is a top priority!

Associates scheduled to work 20 or more hours per week have access to:

  • Medical Coverage
  • Dental Coverage
  • Vision Coverage
  • Life Insurance
  • 401(k) Plan
  • Generous Vacation & Paid Sick Leave
  • Seven Paid National Holidays & One Floating Holiday
  • Paid Parental Leave (6 weeks after 12 months of employment)
  • Adoption & Surrogacy Assistance
  • Employee Assistance & Wellness Programs

Associates working 30 or more hours per week additionally have access to:

  • Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
  • TDS Service Discounts
  • Education Assistance
  • Paid Volunteer Time

 In addition to these benefits, all associates will have the opportunity to participate in our Associate Resource Groups, which are designed to encourage community and facilitate professional development. To learn more, click here.

Who is TDS Telecom?

TDS Telecom provides high-speed internet, TV entertainment, and phone services to a diverse range of communities, including small to mid-sized urban, suburban, and rural areas across the U.S. With over 50 years of experience, TDS is committed to building and expanding fiber optic networks that bring cutting-edge connectivity to neighborhoods nationwide. Serving over 1 million connections, our mission is to create a better world by delivering innovative communication solutions that enhance the way people live, work, and connect. Visit tdstelecom.com to learn more! 

At TDS, we are committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and value the difference of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives in our workforce. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by law.

Pay Transparency

The pay for this position ranges from *$22.62 to $41.42 per hour.

*The listed pay range reflects the minimum and maximum base salary. Actual offers will be based on factors such as skills, qualifications, experience, location, and role-specific competencies. Some positions may also offer additional compensation, such as bonuses or equity awards.


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