ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Directional Drill Operator Locator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDirectional Drill Operator Locator Jobs

Directional Drill Operator Locator information

See salary details

$13

$26

$34

How much do directional drill operator locator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for directional drill operator locator 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 Drill Operator Locator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Directional Drill Operator Locator, you need a solid understanding of underground utility locating, drilling techniques, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant work experience. Familiarity with locating equipment (such as DCI or Subsite locators), drill rigs, and GPS mapping systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, precise drilling operations, minimize utility damage, and support efficient project completion.

What is the difference between Directional Drill Operator Locator vs Directional Drill Operator?

AspectDirectional Drill Operator LocatorDirectional Drill Operator
CertificationsTypically requires OSHA safety training, CDL, and equipment-specific certificationsRequires similar safety training and certifications, often including CDL
Work EnvironmentWorks on job sites, focusing on locating underground utilities and assisting with drilling operationsOperates drilling equipment directly, managing the drilling process
Job ResponsibilitiesLocates underground utilities, marks positions, and supports drilling accuracyOperates and controls the drilling machinery to install utilities or pipelines

The main difference is that the Directional Drill Operator Locator focuses on locating underground utilities and supporting the drilling process, while the Directional Drill Operator handles the actual operation of the drilling equipment. Both roles require safety certifications and work in similar environments, but their primary responsibilities differ.

What are typical challenges a Directional Drill Operator Locator might face on the job, and how are they addressed?

Directional Drill Operator Locators often encounter challenges such as navigating unexpected underground obstacles, dealing with varying soil conditions, and maintaining precise communication with the drilling team. These challenges are typically addressed through thorough site surveys, the use of advanced locating technology, and ongoing team coordination to adjust plans in real-time. Staying updated with safety protocols and regular equipment maintenance also help ensure operations run smoothly and safely.

What is a Directional Drill Operator Locator?

A Directional Drill Operator Locator is a professional who operates specialized equipment to install underground utilities, such as pipes or cables, using horizontal directional drilling (HDD) techniques. The 'Locator' component of the job involves using electronic locating devices to track the position and depth of the drill head underground, ensuring it follows the planned path and avoids existing utilities. This role requires technical knowledge, attention to safety, and an understanding of utility maps and subsurface conditions. Directional Drill Operator Locators often work on construction sites, roadways, or other areas where underground infrastructure needs to be installed or replaced.
More about Directional Drill Operator Locator jobs
What states have the most Directional Drill Operator Locator jobs? States with the most job openings for Directional Drill Operator Locator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Directional Drill Operator Locator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Directional Drill Operator Locator jobs are:
Directional Drill Operator Locator jobs near you
Directional Drill Operator/Locator

Directional Drill Operator/Locator

MasTec Communications Group

Westwego, LA • On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

MasTec rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 78 rated construction

Job description

Overview

At MasTec Communications Group we build for the future. Yours and ours. 

As a Directional Drill Operator/Locator, you will develop new skills, work in a safety-minded environment, and join us in expanding technology for a better community. Join the MasTec family and help us provide the highest level of quality service to our customers and communities while maintaining our commitment to safety!


Responsibilities

As a Directional Drill Operator/Locator, you will support directional drilling for the installation of underground conduit and fiber optic cable. You believe in doing the job right. Being the best. And you’re up for the challenge.  

In addition, you will: 

  • Locate a Horizontal Directional Driller for the installation of underground conduit and fiber optic cable 
  • Operate a horizontal directional bore in collaboration with the Drill Locator to successfully install coax and fiber systems 
  • Ensure the safety of the public and other underground utility facilities 
  • Read utility locates and coordinates the daylighting of these facilities 
  • Transport heavy equipment to and from the job site each day 

Qualifications

About You: 

  • Safety is a part of your day-to-day
  • You have a track record of completing work with a high level of quality
  • You have a knack for figuring out hard problems and enjoy a hands-on approach to your work
  • You are looking for long-term projects
  • You enjoy getting your hands dirty with your team
  • You have at least 2 years of utility directional drilling experience in an urban environment
  • You have experience with different-sized Vermeer or Ditch Witch drills
  • You have the ability to read and understand maps, drawings, and diagrams for the project build process
  • You have a valid Class A CDL with a clean driving record
  • You want to make an impact with your local community and enjoy being home daily 

MOS Codes 12K, 12N,12V, 12W, 21E, 21J, 25P, 91C, 91L, 11B, 1100, 1120, 1316, 9970-9975, 0612, 2T3XX, 2E1XX, 3E2XX, 3E3XX, 9T0XX, BU, UT relate well to this position. 

Hard work pays off. See what you’ll get for your effort: 

Compensation: $22-$25/hour

Financial Security 

  • 401(k) with company match
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) 
  • Life insurance
  • Short-term and Long-term disability
  • Red Wing Boot Voucher 

Health and Wellness 

  • Medical, dental and vision insurance 
  • Dependent care and medical flexible spending accounts
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) 

Work/Life Balance 

  • Paid time off 
  • Paid holidays
  • Family and medical leave
  • Paid sick time

Employee Referral Program 

Refer someone who delivers excellence just like you and receive a $1,000 incentive for a referral that becomes a permanent hire! 

We meet your commitment with competitive pay and benefits. If this sounds like you, let’s talk. Build your career with MasTec! 

MasTec, Inc. is an equal employment opportunity employer. The Company's policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military status, or any other consideration made unlawful by applicable federal, state, or local laws. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants and employees based on any of these protected categories. It is also MasTec's policy to comply with all applicable state, federal and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions.

#MasTecJobs #MasTecCareers #BeSuccessfulWithUs #IAmMasTec #WeAreMasTec #MasTecFamily #MasTecCommunicationsGroup #MasTecCommunicationsCareers

Qualifications:

About You: 

  • Safety is a part of your day-to-day
  • You have a track record of completing work with a high level of quality
  • You have a knack for figuring out hard problems and enjoy a hands-on approach to your work
  • You are looking for long-term projects
  • You enjoy getting your hands dirty with your team
  • You have at least 2 years of utility directional drilling experience in an urban environment
  • You have experience with different-sized Vermeer or Ditch Witch drills
  • You have the ability to read and understand maps, drawings, and diagrams for the project build process
  • You have a valid Class A CDL with a clean driving record
  • You want to make an impact with your local community and enjoy being home daily 

MOS Codes 12K, 12N,12V, 12W, 21E, 21J, 25P, 91C, 91L, 11B, 1100, 1120, 1316, 9970-9975, 0612, 2T3XX, 2E1XX, 3E2XX, 3E3XX, 9T0XX, BU, UT relate well to this position. 

Hard work pays off. See what you’ll get for your effort: 

Compensation: $22-$25/hour

Financial Security 

  • 401(k) with company match
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) 
  • Life insurance
  • Short-term and Long-term disability
  • Red Wing Boot Voucher 

Health and Wellness 

  • Medical, dental and vision insurance 
  • Dependent care and medical flexible spending accounts
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) 

Work/Life Balance 

  • Paid time off 
  • Paid holidays
  • Family and medical leave
  • Paid sick time

Employee Referral Program 

Refer someone who delivers excellence just like you and receive a $1,000 incentive for a referral that becomes a permanent hire! 

We meet your commitment with competitive pay and benefits. If this sounds like you, let’s talk. Build your career with MasTec! 

MasTec, Inc. is an equal employment opportunity employer. The Company's policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military status, or any other consideration made unlawful by applicable federal, state, or local laws. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants and employees based on any of these protected categories. It is also MasTec's policy to comply with all applicable state, federal and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions.

#MasTecJobs #MasTecCareers #BeSuccessfulWithUs #IAmMasTec #WeAreMasTec #MasTecFamily #MasTecCommunicationsGroup #MasTecCommunicationsCareers

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What MasTec employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply