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Directional Drilling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Turner Mining Group

$22 - $27/hr

Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Directional Drill Locator to join a two-person horizontal directional drilling crew. This individual will work closely with an experienced drill ...

Turner Mining Group

Directional Drilling Locator

Harmony, MN · On-site

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Directional Drill Locator to join a two-person horizontal directional drilling crew. This individual will work closely with an experienced drill ...

FindTalent

Directional Drilling Supervisor

Richmond, VA

$24 - $29.75/hr

Directional Drilling Supervisor Location: VA About the Job FindTalent is seeking a dedicated and experienced Directional Drilling Supervisor to lead and oversee directional drilling operations for a ...

Turner Mining Group

Directional Drilling Locator

Harmony, MN · On-site

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Directional Drill Locator to join a two-person horizontal directional drilling crew. This individual will work closely with an experienced drill ...

Turner Mining Group

$22 - $27/hr

Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Directional Drill Locator to join a two-person horizontal directional drilling crew. This individual will work closely with an experienced drill ...

Lumbee River EMC

Directional Drilling Technician

Pembroke, NC · On-site

$20 - $24.75/hr

A Brief Overview The Directional Drilling Technician is responsible for the creation of new paths for the installation or repair of underground electrical power lines and fiber optical communication ...

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Directional Drilling information

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How much do directional drilling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for directional drilling in the United States is $26.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Directional Driller do?

A Directional Driller operates specialized drilling equipment to steer and control the direction of underground boreholes for construction, utility installation, or oil and gas extraction. They interpret geological data, use tools like gyroscopic or magnetic guidance systems, and work closely with engineers to ensure precise drilling paths while maintaining safety standards. Certification and knowledge of drilling techniques are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Directional Drilling position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Directional Drilling, a strong background in geology, drilling engineering, and mechanical aptitude is generally required, often supported by relevant technical certifications or a degree in a related field. Proficiency with directional drilling tools and software such as Measurement While Drilling (MWD) and Logging While Drilling (LWD) systems is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills in this role. These competencies are critical for ensuring drilling operations are executed efficiently, safely, and according to plan, often under challenging field conditions.

Is directional drilling a good career?

Directional drilling is a specialized field within the oil and gas industry that offers high demand for skilled workers, competitive wages, and opportunities for advancement. It requires technical skills, physical stamina, and often certification in safety and equipment operation. The job can involve long shifts and working in challenging environments, but it provides stable employment for those with the necessary training.

What are some common challenges encountered in a Directional Drilling role?

Directional Drilling professionals often face challenges such as adapting to unexpected geological formations, managing complex well trajectories, and ensuring real-time communication with surface teams. The role can also involve extended shifts in remote locations, requiring the ability to quickly troubleshoot under pressure. Success in this position depends on a strong understanding of drilling technology, adaptability to changing conditions, and effective collaboration with drill site personnel and engineers. Overcoming these challenges is key to maintaining project timelines, safety standards, and cost efficiency.

Is it hard to get a drilling job?

Getting a directional drilling job can be competitive, but having relevant skills, certifications, and experience with drilling equipment can improve your chances. Entry-level positions may be available, but advanced roles often require specialized training and physical fitness. Persistence and a willingness to learn are important in this field.

How much money do directional drillers make?

Directional drillers typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled drillers with specialized equipment knowledge and safety training tend to earn higher wages, especially in high-demand regions or with overtime opportunities.

What is a Directional Drilling job?

A Directional Drilling job involves guiding and controlling the direction of a wellbore to reach a specific underground target. It is commonly used in oil and gas extraction to access reservoirs that are difficult to reach with vertical drilling. Directional drillers use specialized tools and technology, such as rotary steerable systems and downhole motors, to steer the wellbore. This technique improves resource recovery, minimizes environmental impact, and enhances drilling efficiency.

More about Directional Drilling jobs
What cities are hiring for Directional Drilling jobs? Cities with the most Directional Drilling job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Directional Drilling jobs? The most popular types of Directional Drilling jobs are:
What states have the most Directional Drilling jobs? States with the most job openings for Directional Drilling jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Directional Drilling jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Directional Drilling jobs are:
Directional Drilling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Directional Drilling job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 32% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,296 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Directional Drilling Locator

Turner Mining Group

On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Directional Drill Locator to join a two-person horizontal directional drilling crew. This individual will work closely with an experienced drill operator to safely and accurately install underground fiber conduit and larger-diameter pipe.

The ideal candidate can independently locate the drill head, operate supporting equipment, and transport the drill package using a Class A CDL.


Responsibilities

  • Track the drill head and communicate depth, pitch, roll, direction, and steering corrections to the drill operator.
  • Operate DCI/DigiTrak and Underground Magnetics locating systems.
  • Review bore paths, utility markings, entry points, exit points, and required depths.
  • Maintain safe clearance from existing underground utilities.
  • Assist with pilot boring, backreaming, conduit installation, and pullback.
  • Operate a mud vacuum and support potholing, drilling-fluid management, and jobsite cleanup.
  • Assist with directional drill setup, operation, inspections, and basic maintenance.
  • Drive a Class A truck and trailer with air brakes to transport an approximately 40,000-pound drill package.
  • Complete approximately five drill shots per day, depending on project conditions.
  • Perform general field duties necessary to support the two-person crew.


Qualifications

  • Previous HDD drill-locating experience.
  • Experience with DCI/DigiTrak or Underground Magnetics locating equipment.
  • Valid Class A CDL with air-brake experience.
  • Experience towing heavy equipment using a truck and trailer.
  • Familiarity with directional drilling, underground fiber, conduit, and utility construction.
  • Ability to operate a mud vacuum and assist with directional drill operations.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a two-person crew.
  • Dependable attendance and the ability to report to the Harmony shop each morning.
  • Ability to work outdoors and perform physically demanding fieldwork.