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Directional Drill Operator Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

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Equipment Operator

Great Bend, KS · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

The Equipment Operator is responsible for operating heavy equipment used in underground utility and ... as horizontal directional drilling (HDD), trenching, rock saw projects, and manhole systems.

Summary: The Drill Operator/Locator position is responsible for assisting the foreman in all ... Ability to listen, follow directions and communicate effectively. * Ability to manage time and work ...

Summary: The Drill Operator/Locator position is responsible for assisting the foreman in all ... Ability to listen, follow directions and communicate effectively. * Ability to manage time and work ...

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Laborer

Great Bend, KS · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

... operators, foremen, and other crew members · Travel to job locations as required · Perform other ... as horizontal directional drilling (HDD), trenching, rock saw projects, and manhole systems.

Operator - Multiple Shifts

Wichita, KS · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

At Bosch, you will evolve. • Discover new directions: At Bosch, you will find your place. • ... Assembly could include using tools, fixtures, and machines (drilling, screwing, and bolting ...

Operator - Multiple Shifts

Wichita, KS

$16 - $21.25/hr

Discover new directions: At Bosch, you will find your place. Balance your life: At Bosch, your job ... Assembly could include using tools, fixtures, and machines (drilling, screwing, and bolting ...

Operator - Multiple Shifts

Wichita, KS · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

Discover new directions: At Bosch, you will find your place. * Balance your life: At Bosch, your ... Assembly could include using tools, fixtures, and machines (drilling, screwing, and bolting ...

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Directional Drill Operator information

See Kansas salary details

$11

$24

$45

How much do directional drill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for directional drill operator in Kansas is $24.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.65 and $27.64 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 Kansas?

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

Infographic showing various Directional Drill Operator job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,653 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Directional Drill Operator (CDL Preferred)

Centuri Construction Group

Topeka, KS • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Who We Are

Connecting People to Possibility
As a publicly traded company (NYSE: CTRI) with $3 billion in revenue, Centuri leads the way in utility and energy infrastructure across North America. What sets us apart is our local agility, resources to scale, and comprehensive solutions for a dynamic energy market.

Whether in the field or providing essential behind the scenes support, Centuri offers professional growth opportunities where you can thrive and make a difference. Join a culture where safety, sustainability, and teamwork come first, with training and benefits that truly care for your well-being.

As an experienced Equipment Operator, after paid training, you will put your skills to work - safety operating equipment to move earth, tools and materials to and from job sites. Reporting to a seasoned Foreman, you will join a crew to get the job done right. We believe in the power of teamwork, and all crew members are expected to assist with general labor as needed.

What You'll Do
  • Safely operate heavy equipment such as: skid steers, backhoe, trencher, paver, dozer, milling saw, road grater, hydro-excavator, track hoe and more
  • Load and unload equipment and materials
  • Maintain daily pre-shift vehicle and equipment inspections
  • Perform regular maintenance and cleaning on assigned vehicles and equipment
  • Maintain all industry-required Operator Qualifications
  • Perform other tasks as requested by leadership 
What You'll Have
  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Valid Driver's License
  • 1+ year experience safely operating equipment in close proximity to workers and underground utilities
What You'll Get
  • Join the Largest Natural Gas Distribution Contractor in the United States
  • Weekly Payroll
  • Paid, on-the-job training: natural gas distribution, utility excavation, safety 
  • Employee Assistance program benefit
  • Health Insurance Plan benefit
  • Retirement Plan benefit
Work Environment
  • Work sites are outdoors in potentially extreme weather conditions
  • All worksite safety instructions are written and spoken in English; must be fluent in English
  • Work includes prolonged and repeated: lifting (including overhead, up to 50lbs); standing; climbing; kneeling; reaching and feeling; crouching and crawling
  • Work is performed within the "red zone" of heavy equipment
  • Working safely requires quick/accurate hand-eye coordination and the ability to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner
Legal Stuff
  • Pass pre-employment, random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion drug screens
  • Provide valid US work authorization documents for E-Verify
  • Satisfactory results of pre-employment background check results
  • Valid driver's license with clean driving record
  • Pre-employment medical fit-for-duty test; hold/obtain DOT medical card
  • Join and maintain Union membership
Our Commitment to Opportunity

This job description is subject to change at any time. It reflects management's assignment of essential functions, and does not exclude or restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Centuri and its subsidiary companies will provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants without regard to an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, gender, genetic information, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other status protected by federal, state or local law.  Centuri will provide reasonable accommodations to allow an applicant to participate in the hiring process (e.g., accommodations for a test or job interview) if so requested.

Centuri is a Department of Transportation regulated employer. Certain safety-sensitive positions are covered under the DOT Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulations, 49 CFR Part 40. It is important to note that marijuana remains a drug listed in Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. It remains unacceptable for any safety-sensitive employee subject to drug testing under the company's Drug Free Workplace Policy to use or test positive for marijuana.