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Directional Drilling Laborer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Thayer Power and Communication

Directional Driller

Tampa, FL · On-site

$23 - $28.25/hr

The Directional Driller is responsible for executing the bore plan safely, accurately, and ... drilling equipment and report mechanical issues promptly. * Lead and direct the work of laborers ...

Miners Underground

Directional Drill Locator

Harmony, MN · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Guide and direct laborers and other field staff on site. * Operate directional drilling equipment to efficiently perform drilling operations. * Restore the jobsite to company standards post-operation ...

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Directional Drilling Laborer information

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$11

$18

$24

How much do directional drilling laborer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for directional drilling laborer in the United States is $18.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Directional Drilling Laborer vs Drilling Helper?

AspectDirectional Drilling LaborerDrilling Helper
CredentialsHigh school diploma, OSHA safety training, basic equipment operationHigh school diploma, OSHA safety training, basic equipment operation
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, underground or outdoor drilling locationsConstruction sites, outdoor drilling locations
Industry UsageUsed in directional drilling projects for utilities, oil, and gasSupports drilling operations across various industries

The main difference is that Directional Drilling Laborers specialize in assisting with directional drilling tasks, including handling specialized equipment and ensuring precise operations. Drilling Helpers provide general support in drilling sites, often performing basic tasks. Both roles require safety training and work in similar outdoor environments, but Directional Drilling Laborers have more specific technical responsibilities.

What are some common challenges Directional Drilling Laborers face on job sites, and how can they be prepared to handle them?

Directional Drilling Laborers often encounter challenges such as working in varying soil conditions, maintaining safety around heavy machinery, and adapting to changing weather. Effective communication with the drilling team and staying updated on equipment maintenance are key to overcoming these hurdles. Being proactive in safety training and understanding site-specific plans will help you anticipate obstacles and ensure smooth operations.

What are Directional Drilling Laborers?

Directional Drilling Laborers are skilled workers who assist in the installation of underground pipelines, cables, or conduits using horizontal directional drilling (HDD) techniques. Their responsibilities include preparing drilling sites, operating and maintaining drilling equipment, and supporting the drill operator throughout the project. They play a key role in ensuring that installations are completed accurately, safely, and with minimal disruption to the surface environment. This job often requires physical labor, attention to safety protocols, and the ability to work as part of a team in various outdoor conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Directional Drilling Laborer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Directional Drilling Laborer, you need a solid understanding of construction practices, safety protocols, and basic mechanical aptitude, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with horizontal directional drilling (HDD) equipment, underground utility locating systems, and OSHA safety certifications are typically required. Physical stamina, teamwork, and attention to detail are essential soft skills for excelling on job sites and ensuring safety. These competencies are crucial for maintaining operational efficiency, preventing accidents, and ensuring accurate installation of underground utilities.
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What cities are hiring for Directional Drilling Laborer jobs? Cities with the most Directional Drilling Laborer job openings:
What states have the most Directional Drilling Laborer jobs? States with the most job openings for Directional Drilling Laborer jobs include:
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Directional Drilling Laborer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Directional Drilling Laborer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 80% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,629 per year, or $18.1 per hour.
Horizontal Directional Drilling Operators

Horizontal Directional Drilling Operators

K2 Construction LLC

Lincoln, NE • On-site

$21 - $26/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

K2 Trenchless is driven to deliver the highest quality in the construction industry on every project, which is accomplished through its professional employees, dedicated staff and sincere commitment to safety and efficiency. We have immediate openings for Horizontal Directional Drilling individuals that are willing to travel.

Description

The HDD Operator is responsible for all duties associated with and related to the safe, efficient and cost- effective operation of Directional Drills and various mud mixing equipment. Excavator and or backhoe experience preferred.

Responsibilities:

  • Must be proficient in HDD Operation for pilot bore, reaming and product pullback. Properly operate rod loader systems and pump levels. Ditch Witch and Vermeer Experience preferred.

  • Must be proficient with HDD mud mixing equipment and have a working knowledge of mud mixing materials and quantities.

  • Working knowledge of HDD Locate Equipment.

  • Perform general site preparation, restoration and right of way maintenance duties

  • Develop proficiency in safe operation of HDD and other equipment.

  • Perform preventative maintenance and inspections on equipment

  • Run power tools

  • Perform hand digging

  • Transport Equipment to and From Jobsites

  • Load and Unload Equipment

  • Maintain material inventory on truck

  • Active leadership skills as lead position while crew foreman is offsite.

  • Working knowledge of underground utilities.

  • Working knowledge of 811 Requirements and Procedures

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES

Education: High school diploma

Experience: 2 years experience preferred

Preferred:

  • Knowledge of Horizontal Directional Drilling techniques and standards.

  • Ideally have valid driver’s license and able to obtain Class A CDL License with tanker endorsement in 6 months.

Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The position lifts heavy objects, walks and stands for long periods of time and performs strenuous physical labor under adverse field conditions. The employee lifts, pushes, pulls or carries objects; uses abdominal and lower back muscles to provide support over time without fatigue. The position requires the ability to quickly move arms and legs. The employee must have excellent stamina.

K2 Real Estate Development and its subsidiaries provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: DOE


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