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Directional Drill Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Backfill Operator/Laborer

Des Moines, IA

$16 - $19.75/hr

Rooted in heavy construction, we specialize in excavation, grading, sewer, directional drilling ... When not operating equipment, individuals must be willing to perform physical labor wherever needed.

Rooted in heavy construction, we specialize in excavation, grading, sewer, directional drilling ... When not operating equipment, individuals must be willing to perform physical labor wherever needed.

Sr Field Trainer

Council Bluffs, IA · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Operating diesel and gasoline powered equipment including backhoe, hydro-vac, directional drill; * Safely using various hand and small tools such as shovel, tamper, generator, etc; * Locating buried ...

Material Handler/Saw Operator

Indianola, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Punch and drill holes in steel components as required. * Accurately read and use a tape measure to ... Dependability - Follows instructions, responds to management direction, and takes responsibility.

New

Material Handler/Saw Operator

Indianola, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

Punch and drill holes in steel components as required. * Accurately read and use a tape measure to ... Dependability - Follows instructions, responds to management direction, and takes responsibility.

New

Be Seen First

Carpenter - $1,000 Sign-On Bonus

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$21.25 - $28.75/hr

Shows willingness to follow directions. * Troubleshoots installation problems at hand and resolves ... sanders, hammer drill, and router. (Brief summary of , for a complete visit our website www ...

Material Handler

Delhi, IA · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Under the direction of the Value Stream Leader and Senior Team Leader, the Material Handler assists ... Executed inventory location assignments and job order deliveries, operating forklifts safely and ...

Showing results 21-40

Directional Drill Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$26

$48

How much do directional drill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for directional drill operator in Iowa is $26.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.66 and $29.13 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 Iowa?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Directional Drill Operator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,399 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Construction Opportunities in Natural Gas Distribution

Prim

Grimes, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Overview:

Primoris Gas Operations which consist of companies such as Q3 Contracting, ARB, Primoris Distribution Services, Snelson and Pipejacking Trenchless has over 60 years of experience working in the natural gas distribution industry. Over this time, we have maintained numerous customer relationships spanning more than two decades. Providing a safe environment, quality workmanship, and exceptional value to our customers is the foremost focus of our operations.

Are you ready for a change? If yes, Primoris Gas Operations is looking for YOU!

Our Gas Operations Field Professionals receive the following:

UNION

  • Highly competitive, union wages paid weekly.
  • Outstanding, paid on-the-job training.
  • Union benefits offerings (Determined by trade and location)
  • Award winning safety programs.
  • Overtime opportunities.
  • Growth Opportunities.

Non-UNION

  • Industry competitive weekly hourly pay.
  • Outstanding, paid on-the-job training.
  • Best-in-class benefit offerings; Medical, Dental, Vision, LTD/STD, 401(k) with company match, Paid Time Off, Holiday Pay, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Pet Coverage, Legal Coverage, Tuition Reimbursement, and more.
  • Award winning safety programs.
  • Overtime opportunities.
  • Growth Opportunities.

Our doors swing wide open for the following construction opportunities in natural gas distribution both UNION & Non-UNION:

  • Equipment Operators (Backhoe, Skid Steer, Trencher)
  • CDL Drivers
  • Laborers
  • Groundman
  • PE Pipe Fusers
  • Pipe Welders
  • Pipe Fitters
  • Plumbers
  • Directional Drill Operators
  • Utility Locators
  • Traffic Control Specialists
  • Flaggers

Educational & Minimum Requirements:

  • High School diploma or GED is highly preferred.
  • A valid driver's license with a clean driving history. A Class A CDL is highly preferred, with endorsements.
  • Previous construction experience in any of the following areas: natural gas distribution/pipeline, electric, transmission, telecommunications, water, sewer, landscaping, concrete/asphalt, or agricultural.
  • Able to work outside in various weather conditions such as extreme heat and cold temperatures.
  • Must possess the physical dexterity to be able to lift a minimum of 50 LBS and safely perform other physical work.
  • Able to travel on short-term basis.
  • Primoris Gas Operations is a drug free environment. All positions require participation in federally compliant PHMSA or FMSCA drug and alcohol testing programs. This includes both pre-employment and ongoing random testing.
  • Other duties as assigned.

EEO Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.


Third Party Agency Notice:

Primoris will not accept any unsolicited resumes from any third-party recruiting agencies either domestic or international. Primoris nor its subsidiaries will be responsible for any fees from the use of any unsolicited resumes either through our ATS or via electronic mail systems from any agency representative or agency consultant unless your firm is an approved vendor partner with a current executed agreement.

Company Overview:

Primoris Gas Operations, which consist of companies such as Q3 Contracting, ARB, Primoris Distribution Services, Snelson and Pipejacking Trenchless, has over 60 years of experience working in the natural gas distribution industry. Over this time, we have maintained numerous customer relationships spanning more than two decades. Providing a safe environment, quality workmanship, and exceptional value to our customers is the foremost focus of our operations.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Agency Statement

We are not accepting resumes from Third Party Recruiting Firms for this position. If you are an Agency or Search firm representative, contact the Primoris Talent Acquisition Manager directly for consideration. Primoris or its subsidiaries will not be responsible for any fees arising from the use of resumes and online response forms through this source. In addition, Primoris or its subsidiaries will not be responsible for any fees on unsolicited resumes that are submitted to any member of the Staffing or Operations team. Primoris has established an approved vendor program for this service and will only consider accepting submissions from those approved firms. For consideration in becoming an approved vendor, contact HR.

Equal Opportunity Employer

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.