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Directional Drill Operator Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary As the Directional Drill Operator, you will ultimately be responsible for safely operating directional drilling equipment, locating underground utilities, and supporting construction ...

As the Directional Drill Operator, you will be responsible for safely operating directional drilling equipment, locating underground utility paths, and supporting telecommunications construction ...

Directional Drill Locator

Columbus, OH · On-site

$24 - $35/hr

A Directional Drill Locator at Team Fishel will interpret the signals sent from underground ... Some experience operating drilling machinery * Work as a part of a crew. Requirements ...

Position Summary The Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) Operator is responsible for safely operating horizontal directional drilling equipment to install underground utilities in accordance with ...

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Directional Drill Operator information

See Ohio salary details

$12

$26

$48

How much do directional drill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for directional drill operator in Ohio is $26.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $29.47 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 Ohio?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Directional Drill Operator job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,061 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Directional Drill Operator

Gudenkauf, a Congruex company

Columbus, OH

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Reports To: Construction Manager
Travel Potential: 25–50%
Compensation: $25.00–$30.00 Hourly

Company Profile

Congruex provides digital infrastructure solutions through engineering and construction services that connect communities nationwide. This includes wireline, wireless, data centers, and utility services from initial concept to market go-live.

With employees across the United States and India, the work we do enables essential infrastructure for the future of communications.

Build a Career. Build What Matters.

Job Summary

As the Directional Drill Operator, you will ultimately be responsible for safely operating directional drilling equipment, locating underground utilities, and supporting construction activities for telecommunications infrastructure projects. You will operate and maintain drilling equipment while collaborating with construction crews to deliver projects safely, efficiently, and in compliance with company and regulatory standards. As the Directional Drill Operator, your customers are Congruex construction teams and telecommunications clients, and you will contribute to the company's success through safe operations, quality workmanship, and reliable project execution.

Key Responsibilities (Including, but not limited to)

  • Safely operate directional drilling equipment and locating systems to install underground telecommunications infrastructure.
  • Perform equipment inspections, maintenance, setup, breakdown, and assist with loading, unloading, and transportation of equipment.
  • Read project plans, identify underground utilities, develop safe drilling paths, and prevent utility strikes while working around active utilities.
  • Assist with related construction activities including conduit installation, potholing, concrete work, asphalt restoration, and shoring as required.
  • Maintain accurate communication with supervisors while adhering to all company safety policies, OSHA standards, and quality requirements.
  • Travel to project sites as required and support overnight assignments when necessary.
  • Additional responsibilities within functional scope based on business needs.

Required Qualifications

Education, Licensing, and Certifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Valid unrestricted driver's license with an acceptable driving record.

Experience

  • Minimum one (1) year of experience operating directional drilling equipment and locating underground utilities.
  • Experience operating heavy equipment within telecommunications, utility, or underground construction environments.

Skills and Abilities

  • Ability to safely operate drilling equipment and work around active underground utilities.
  • Ability to read and interpret construction plans, specifications, and utility locates.
  • Knowledge of OSHA safety standards, basic computer skills, and shoring methods.
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment background check, drug screen, and motor vehicle record (MVR) review.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with tanker endorsement or willingness to obtain.
  • DOT Medical Card or willingness to obtain.
  • Experience operating Ditch Witch and Vermeer directional drilling equipment.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, squat, climb, push, pull, and twist for extended periods.
  • Work performed outdoors in all weather conditions around heavy equipment and active utilities while wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment background check, drug screen, and motor vehicle record (MVR) review.

Congruex Culture & Benefits

Congruex's culture of safety and performance is built on the 4X Factor core values of Be Safe, Be Accountable, Be Respectful, and Earn Trust. These values guide how we work with one another and how we interact with our customers.

We are committed to building a workplace where employees feel supported and recognized. We invest in employees through a comprehensive approach, including the benefits below with eligibility on Day 1 of employment:

  • Medical, Dental & Vision benefits with 70% paid by the company.
  • 401(k) with company match up to 4% and immediate vesting.
  • Flexible PTO for exempt roles and competitive PTO accrual for non-exempt roles.
  • 10 company-paid holidays (9 standard and 1 floating).
  • Company-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage.
  • Company-paid Maternity & Parental Leave options.
  • Company-paid Basic Life Insurance (with employee-paid voluntary options).
  • Annual Safety Boot Program of up to $150 per eligible field employee per year.
  • Safety Points Program for eligible field employees redeemable in the company store.
  • Free wellness benefits including counseling, financial planning, and more.

Additional Employment Information

We will determine salary based on skills and experience in relation to the function of the role, as well as equity to employees in similar roles. Some benefits have eligibility criteria. All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at-will" employment relationship. Conditions to hiring may include but are not necessarily limited to background checks and drug testing.