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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 ...

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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$13

$26

$34

How much do directional drilling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 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 is directional drilling?

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in directional drilling, 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.

What are some common challenges encountered in directional drilling?

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.

How do I become a directional driller?

To become a directional driller, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or an apprenticeship in drilling operations. Many employers prefer candidates with experience in oil and gas or construction, and obtaining certifications such as Well Control or OSHA safety training can improve job prospects.

Is directional drilling a hard job?

Directional drilling is physically demanding and requires technical skills, including operating specialized equipment and understanding subsurface geology. It often involves working in challenging environments, long shifts, and adhering to safety protocols, making it a physically and mentally demanding profession.
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Directional Drilling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Directional Drilling job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% 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

Re-posted 10 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.