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Directional Drilling Laborer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Jacqueline Construction

Be Seen First

Construction Manager - Horizontal Directional Drilling

Houston, TX · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

Supervise HDD crews, operators, locators, laborers, and subcontractors. * Plan and coordinate ... Coordinate drilling operations to ensure bores are completed safely and according to plan.

TrueNet Communications

Directional Drill Locator

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$23 - $28.25/hr

This role performs tasks involving physical labor at road/highway sites and heavy construction ... Must possess knowledge of drilling practices in various soil conditions and mixing drilling mud.

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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 Aug 23, 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 a directional drilling laborer?

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?

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.

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 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.

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What job categories do people searching Directional Drilling Laborer jobs look for?

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Directional Drilling Laborer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Directional Drilling Laborer 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 $37,629 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Directional Drill Operator/Locator

MasTec Communications Group

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

MasTec rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 155 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 80 rated construction

Job description

Overview

At MasTec Communications Group we build for the future. Yours and ours. 

As a Directional Drill Operator/Locator, you will develop new skills, work in a safety-minded environment, and join us in expanding technology for a better community. Join the MasTec family and help us provide the highest level of quality service to our customers and communities while maintaining our commitment to safety!


Responsibilities

As a Directional Drill Operator/Locator, you will support directional drilling for installation of underground conduit and fiber optic cable. You believe in doing the job right. Being the best. And you’re up for the challenge.  

Experience- Operating Directional Drilling Equipment: At least 1-3 years of hands-on experience, often gained through working in the field under the supervision of a seasoned operator.

Knowledge- of Underground Construction: Familiarity with the installation of cables, pipelines, and other utilities.

Experience -with GPS and Locating Systems: As the job involves precise measurements, operators need to understand and use locating equipment like GPS systems, electromagnetic locators, and other survey equipment to track drill path and depth.

In addition, you will: 

  • Locate for Horizontal Directional Driller for installation of underground conduit and fiber optic cable.  
  • Operate a horizontal directional bore in collaboration with the Drill Locator to successfully install coax and fiber systems 
  • Ensure the safety of the public and other underground utility facilities 
  • Read utility locates and coordinates day lighting of these facilities 
  • Transport heavy equipment to and from the job site each day 

Qualifications

About You: 

  • Safety is a part of your day to day 
  • You have a track record of completing work with a high level of quality 
  • You have a knack for figuring out hard problems and enjoy a hands-on approach to your work 
  • You are looking for long-term projects 
  • You enjoy getting your hands dirty with your team 
  • You have at least 2 years of utility directional drilling experience in an urban environment 
  • You have experience with different size Vermeer or Ditchwitch drills 
  • You have the ability to read and understand maps, drawings and diagrams for project build process 
  • You have a valid Class A CDL with a clean driving record 
  • You want to make an impact with your local community and enjoy being home daily 

MOS Codes 12K, 12N,12V, 12W, 21E, 21J, 25P, 91C, 91L, 11B, 1100, 1120, 1316, 9970-9975, 0612, 2T3XX, 2E1XX, 3E2XX, 3E3XX, 9T0XX, BU, UT relate well to this position. 

Hard work pays off. See what you’ll get for your effort: 

  • Compensation: You will be paid between $30-35/HR, based on experience.
  • Overtime pay will be provided in accordance with California labor laws, at 1.5 times the regular hourly rate for hours worked over 8 hours in a day or 40 hours in a workweek.
  • Rest and Meal Breaks: You will be compensated for paid rest periods and granted unpaid meal breaks in accordance with California labor laws.
  • "At-will employment": Your employment with MasTec is “at-will,” meaning either you or the company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice.
  • Schedule: Full time positions; Hours varies based on project needs

Financial Security 

  • 401(k) with company match 
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) 
  • Life insurance 
  • Short-term and Long-term disability 
  • Red Wing Boot Voucher 

Health and Wellness 

  • Medical, dental and vision insurance 
  • Dependent care and medical flexible spending accounts
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) 

Work/Life Balance 

  • Paid time off 
  • Paid holidays 
  • Family and medical leave 
  • Bereavement leave 

Employee Referral Program 

Refer someone who delivers excellence just like you and receive a $1,000 incentive for a referral that becomes a permanent hire! 

We meet your commitment with competitive pay and benefits. If this sounds like you, let’s talk. Build your career with MasTec! 

#HotJobs

MasTec, Inc. is an equal employment opportunity employer. The Company's policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military status, or any other consideration made unlawful by applicable federal, state, or local laws. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants and employees based on any of these protected categories. It is also MasTec's policy to comply with all applicable state, federal and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions.

Qualifications:

About You: 

  • Safety is a part of your day to day 
  • You have a track record of completing work with a high level of quality 
  • You have a knack for figuring out hard problems and enjoy a hands-on approach to your work 
  • You are looking for long-term projects 
  • You enjoy getting your hands dirty with your team 
  • You have at least 2 years of utility directional drilling experience in an urban environment 
  • You have experience with different size Vermeer or Ditchwitch drills 
  • You have the ability to read and understand maps, drawings and diagrams for project build process 
  • You have a valid Class A CDL with a clean driving record 
  • You want to make an impact with your local community and enjoy being home daily 

MOS Codes 12K, 12N,12V, 12W, 21E, 21J, 25P, 91C, 91L, 11B, 1100, 1120, 1316, 9970-9975, 0612, 2T3XX, 2E1XX, 3E2XX, 3E3XX, 9T0XX, BU, UT relate well to this position. 

Hard work pays off. See what you’ll get for your effort: 

  • Compensation: You will be paid between $30-35/HR, based on experience.
  • Overtime pay will be provided in accordance with California labor laws, at 1.5 times the regular hourly rate for hours worked over 8 hours in a day or 40 hours in a workweek.
  • Rest and Meal Breaks: You will be compensated for paid rest periods and granted unpaid meal breaks in accordance with California labor laws.
  • "At-will employment": Your employment with MasTec is “at-will,” meaning either you or the company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice.
  • Schedule: Full time positions; Hours varies based on project needs

Financial Security 

  • 401(k) with company match 
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) 
  • Life insurance 
  • Short-term and Long-term disability 
  • Red Wing Boot Voucher 

Health and Wellness 

  • Medical, dental and vision insurance 
  • Dependent care and medical flexible spending accounts
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) 

Work/Life Balance 

  • Paid time off 
  • Paid holidays 
  • Family and medical leave 
  • Bereavement leave 

Employee Referral Program 

Refer someone who delivers excellence just like you and receive a $1,000 incentive for a referral that becomes a permanent hire! 

We meet your commitment with competitive pay and benefits. If this sounds like you, let’s talk. Build your career with MasTec! 

#HotJobs

MasTec, Inc. is an equal employment opportunity employer. The Company's policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military status, or any other consideration made unlawful by applicable federal, state, or local laws. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants and employees based on any of these protected categories. It is also MasTec's policy to comply with all applicable state, federal and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions.

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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