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Directional Drill Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Directional Drill Operator

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$38 - $40/hr

The Horizontal Directional Drill Operator plays a critical role in delivering reliable infrastructure by collaborating closely with field leadership, interpreting plans, and executing work ...

Directional Drill Operator

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$38 - $40/hr

The Horizontal Directional Drill Operator plays a critical role in delivering reliable infrastructure by collaborating closely with field leadership, interpreting plans, and executing work ...

... operating trenchers, plows, backhoes, and bobcats 4. Operate tampers, jackhammers, drills, and saws when needed Requirements & Qualifications 1. Must have 2+ years of horizontal directional drilling ...

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Directional Drill Operator information

See Arizona salary details

$12

$25

$47

How much do directional drill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for directional drill operator in Arizona is $25.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $28.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a directional drill operator?

A Directional Drill Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining horizontal directional drilling (HDD) equipment to install underground utilities such as fiber optic cables, pipelines, and conduits. They read blueprints, locate existing utilities, and ensure precise boring to avoid damage. Operators work in various environments, adjusting to different soil conditions and obstacles. Safety, accuracy, and efficiency are key aspects of the role.

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

To thrive as a Directional Drill Operator, you need a solid understanding of drilling techniques, site safety protocols, and equipment operation, typically gained through hands-on experience or vocational training. Familiarity with drill rigs, locator systems, mud mixing systems, and certifications such as OSHA safety training are usually required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and teamwork skills help operators adapt to site-specific challenges and collaborate effectively with their crew. These abilities are vital to ensure efficient, precise drilling operations and to maintain a safe work environment.

What are the typical working conditions and team structure for a directional drill operator?

As a Directional Drill Operator, you generally work outdoors in variable weather conditions, often as part of a small, specialized crew on construction or utility sites. Your day-to-day responsibilities may include operating and maintaining drilling equipment, coordinating with project managers and locators, and troubleshooting technical issues on site. Collaboration is important, as you’ll frequently interact with crew members, safety inspectors, and project supervisors to ensure smooth workflow. The team structure is usually hands-on and task-oriented, with opportunities for advancement as you gain experience and demonstrate leadership qualities.

How much do directional drill operators get paid?

Directional drill operators typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Experienced operators with specialized skills or working in high-demand areas may earn higher wages.

Is a directional drill operator a hard job?

A directional drill operator's job involves operating specialized drilling equipment to install underground utilities, which requires physical strength, attention to safety protocols, and technical skills. The work can be physically demanding and often involves working outdoors in various weather conditions, but proper training and experience can help manage the difficulty.

What are popular job titles related to Directional Drill Operator jobs in Arizona?

For Directional Drill Operator jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Directional Drill Operator jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Directional Drill Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Directional Drill Operator job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,972 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Directional Drill Operator

ByVerTek LLC

Mesa, AZ • On-site

$38 - $40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

ByVerTek is now seeking an experienced and safety-focused Horizontal Directional Drill Operator based in Mesa, Arizona to join our growing telecommunications construction team. In this role, you will be responsible for operating directional drilling equipment and supporting underground fiber installation projects, ensuring bore accuracy, utility avoidance, and compliance with safety and quality standards. The Horizontal Directional Drill Operator plays a critical role in delivering reliable infrastructure by collaborating closely with field leadership, interpreting plans, and executing work efficiently in diverse environments.

What You'll Do:

  • Confirm bore path with Field Supervisor/Construction Manager and Drill Locator (including walking the bore path)
  • Operate directional drills, mini-excavators, and other equipment to install underground fiber
  • Set up job equipment and reel trailers proficiently
  • Perform utility exposes (potholing) and understand the utility locate process
  • Locate other utilities as needed and maintain clearances from other utilities, ground, road, highway, sidewalk, and non-pedestrian areas
  • Transport, handle, and place conduits (rolled and stick) in a proper manner
  • Properly transport and install fiber reels
  • Install fiber cables in conduits following proper procedures
  • Set and secure pedestals and vaults accurately
  • Read and interpret blueprints
  • Adhere to OSHA safety requirements to ensure safe and efficient completion of the job(s)
  • Maintain regular phone communication throughout the workday
  • Perform any other duties as assigned


Qualifications:

  • 3+ years experience in operating Horizontal Directional Drill for installation of underground telecommunications cable conduit, including fiber optic cable
  • Good verbal communication skills
  • Valid Driver’s License (Class A Driver’s License (CDL) strongly preferred)


Education:

  • High School, Some college or vocational school a plus
  • Military experience a plus


Work Environment:

  • Must perform work with minimal supervision
  • Must be able to prioritize multiple projects and perform under pressure and follow safety standards
  • Must negotiate timeframes for completion and meet critical deadlines
  • Must be willing and able to work with other coworkers to complete job assignments


Working Conditions & Exposure:

  • Primarily field-based role requiring regular travel to job sites.
  • Work performed outdoors with exposure to varying weather conditions, uneven terrain, and moderate noise levels.
  • Occasional evening or weekend work may be required based on project needs.


Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position:

  • Ability to stand, walk, and work outdoors for extended periods.
  • Ability to safely navigate active construction environments.
  • Capability to lift and carry materials or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds as part of normal field activities.
  • Frequent bending, kneeling, climbing, and reaching during inspections and site supervision.
  • Visual acuity sufficient to read construction drawings, maps, and digital displays.
  • Manual dexterity required to operate tools, equipment, and computer devices.
  • Ability to wear and properly utilize required personal protective equipment (PPE), including hard hat, safety vest, gloves, and protective eyewear and lead safe construction processes by example to prevent injury prevention (i.e. vehicle use, construction processes, bending and lifting safety).


About Us:

As fiber build experts, ByVerTek provides turnkey services for broadband infrastructure projects where failure is not an option. From design, engineering and locating, to aerial and underground construction and fiber-to-the-home fulfillment, we help digital providers build, upgrade, and maintain the physical infrastructure for delivering high-speed Internet, video, voice, wireless and IoT services – from residential and commercial builds to state-wide fiber network expansions. Our dedication to do it all correctly, safely, on time and on budget has earned us ongoing business from many of the biggest names in the industry. For additional information, please review our website at www.ByVerTek.com.

We Offer Our Employees:

  • Paid Vacation and Paid Sick Time
  • Eleven (11) Company-observed Holidays per year
  • Medical insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Company-paid Short-term disability coverage and Basic Company Paid Life/AD & D insurance
  • Voluntary Life insurance coverage for employees and their families
  • Voluntary Long-Term disability coverage
  • Supplemental benefits plans to assist with out-of-pocket expenses
  • Flexible Spending accounts
  • 401K
  • Company Bonus Program

EEO Statement:

ByVerTek provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.