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Directional Drill Operator information

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How much do directional drill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for directional drill operator in Florida is $20.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $23.17 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 the most commonly searched types of Directional Drill Operator jobs in Florida?

The most popular types of Directional Drill Operator jobs in Florida are:

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

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

What job categories do people searching Directional Drill Operator jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Directional Drill Operator jobs in Florida are:

Directional Drill Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Directional Drill Operator job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,281 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Horizontal Directional Drill Operator

UNDERWAY FIBERAXIS LLC

Clearwater, FL • On-site

$33/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Company housing
  • Company gas card
  • Company car
  • Paid time off
  • Training & development

VETERNAN OWED BUSINESS
Position Summary
We are seeking an experienced Directional Drill Operator (HDD Operator) to join our underground fiber construction team in Florida. We are working in various position This position will support Sedulous Broadband LLC fiber infrastructure projects utilizing Hexatronic systems and materials.
The Directional Drill Operator will be responsible for safely and efficiently operating horizontal directional drilling equipment to install underground conduit and microduct for fiber-optic infrastructure.
We are looking for someone who understands underground utility construction, can work productively with a locator and ground crew, takes care of equipment, and can consistently complete accurate bores while following project specifications and safety requirements.
Responsibilities
  • Operate horizontal directional drilling equipment for underground fiber-optic construction.
  • Perform pilot bores, reaming, and product pullback operations.
  • Install conduit, duct, and Hexatronic microduct systems according to project requirements.
  • Work closely with the HDD locator to maintain proper bore depth, pitch, alignment, and path.
  • Read and understand construction prints, bore plans, utility maps, and project specifications.
  • Conduct pre-job walkouts and identify proposed bore paths and potential obstacles.
  • Assist with potholing and exposing existing utilities when required.
  • Maintain appropriate separation from existing utilities and infrastructure.
  • Monitor drilling conditions and make adjustments based on soil conditions, utilities, and job-site conditions.
  • Properly mix and manage drilling fluid when required.
  • Inspect the drill and supporting equipment before and after operation.
  • Report equipment problems, damage, or maintenance needs immediately.
  • Assist with loading, unloading, setup, and breakdown of drilling equipment.
  • Coordinate with locators, laborers, supervisors, inspectors, and other project personnel.
  • Protect existing utilities, landscaping, roads, driveways, sidewalks, and customer property.
  • Maintain a clean and safe work area.
  • Follow company, project, OSHA, utility-owner, and job-site safety requirements.
  • Assist the crew with handholes, conduit, restoration, and general underground construction duties when drilling operations are complete or temporarily stopped.
  • Complete assigned production documentation and provide accurate information regarding completed footage and work performed.
Qualifications
Required:

  • Previous experience operating horizontal directional drilling equipment.
  • Experience with underground utility, telecommunications, broadband, or fiber-optic construction.
  • Ability to safely perform directional bores in active utility environments.
  • Ability to read construction prints and understand bore routes.
  • Knowledge of HDD drilling procedures, tooling, rods, reamers, and product pullback.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with the locator and ground crew.
  • Ability to work outdoors in Florida weather and changing job-site conditions.
  • Ability to perform physically demanding construction work when needed.
  • Ability to work extended hours and Saturdays when required by production or project schedules.
  • Dependable transportation and reliable attendance.
  • Valid driver's license and acceptable driving history for employees operating company vehicles.
Preferred:

  • Experience with Vermeer, Ditch Witch, or similar HDD equipment.
  • Experience with Digitrak F2, F5, or comparable locating systems.
  • Previous fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) or broadband construction experience.
  • Experience installing conduit or microduct systems.
  • Experience working around handholes, pedestals, vaults, and underground telecommunications infrastructure.
  • CDL or experience towing construction equipment is a plus.
Physical Requirements
Candidates must be able to:
  • Work outdoors for extended periods.
  • Lift and carry construction materials, tools, and equipment.
  • Frequently stand, walk, bend, kneel, climb, push, and pull.
  • Work around mud, dust, noise, traffic, heavy equipment, and varying terrain.
  • Safely work in hot and humid Florida conditions.
What We're Looking For
We are looking for operators who take pride in their work and understand that a successful bore requires more than simply operating the machine.
The right candidate will be safety-conscious, dependable, production-focused, mechanically responsible, and able to communicate effectively with the entire drilling crew.
Operators are expected to respect the equipment, protect existing utilities, follow the designated bore path, communicate with their locator, and produce quality work without sacrificing safety.
Schedule
This is a field-based construction position. Work schedules may vary depending on project requirements, weather, inspections, production goals, and customer requirements.
Candidates should be prepared for:
  • Full-time field work
  • Early mornings
  • Extended workdays when necessary
  • Occasional Saturday work
  • Travel within assigned Florida project areas
  • Changing job locations as the fiber build progresses
Join the Team
If you have HDD experience and are looking for an opportunity to work on a growing fiber-optic infrastructure project in Florida, we encourage you to apply.
We are looking for experienced operators who can help our crews complete safe, accurate, and productive underground fiber installations.