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Directional Drilling Locator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Team Fishel

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 ...

MasTec Inc

Directional Driller/Locator

Fremont, OH · On-site

$27 - $33/hr

As a Directional Drill Operator/Locator , you will develop new skills, work in a safety-minded ... You have at least 2 years of utility directional drilling experience in an urban environment * You ...

MasTec Inc

Directional Driller/Locator

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$27 - $33/hr

As a Directional Drill Operator/Locator , you will develop new skills, work in a safety-minded ... You have at least 2 years of utility directional drilling experience in an urban environment * You ...

MasTec Inc

Directional Driller/Locator

Walton Hills, OH · On-site

$27 - $33/hr

As a Directional Drill Operator/Locator , you will develop new skills, work in a safety-minded ... You have at least 2 years of utility directional drilling experience in an urban environment * You ...

MasTec Inc

Directional Driller/Locator

Cleveland, OH

$27 - $33/hr

As a Directional Drill Operator/Locator , you will develop new skills, work in a safety-minded ... You have at least 2 years of utility directional drilling experience in an urban environment * You ...

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Directional Drilling Locator information

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How much do directional drilling locator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for directional drilling locator 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 a directional drilling locator?

Directional Drilling Locators are specialized professionals who assist in guiding drilling equipment during horizontal directional drilling (HDD) operations. They use electronic locating tools to track and communicate the position, depth, and direction of the drill head underground, ensuring that the bore path follows the designed route and avoids existing utilities or obstacles. Their role is crucial in construction and utility installation projects, as they help maintain safety, accuracy, and efficiency during the drilling process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a directional drilling locator?

To thrive as a Directional Drilling Locator, you need a solid understanding of underground utility mapping, drilling processes, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with locating equipment, GPS systems, and utility detection technologies is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are important to ensure accurate utility identification, prevent costly errors, and maintain safety on job sites.

What are some common challenges faced by directional drilling locators in the field, and how can they be managed?

Directional Drilling Locators often encounter challenges such as difficult soil conditions, interference from existing underground utilities, and maintaining clear communication with the drilling crew. Successfully managing these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, up-to-date knowledge of local utility maps, and the ability to use advanced locating equipment accurately. Additionally, working closely with both field technicians and project managers ensures that potential issues are identified early and addressed efficiently, helping to keep projects on schedule and within safety guidelines.

What is the difference between Directional Drilling Locator vs Horizontal Driller?

AspectDirectional Drilling LocatorHorizontal Driller
CredentialsTypically requires certifications in directional drilling and locator technologyRequires experience in horizontal drilling operations, often with similar certifications
Work EnvironmentOperates in the field, using locating equipment to track drill pathsWorks on-site, managing the drilling process for horizontal wells
Industry UsageUsed across oil, gas, and utility industries for locating underground utilities and guiding drillsPrimarily in oil and gas for horizontal well installation

While both roles are essential in drilling operations, the Directional Drilling Locator focuses on tracking and locating underground drill paths, whereas the Horizontal Driller manages the actual drilling process for horizontal wells. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or service provider.

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Directional Drilling Locator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Directional Drilling Locator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,296 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Horizontal Directional Drilling Operator / Locator

Daytona Beach, FL • On-site

Advanced Directional Drilling Solutions
See more jobs at Advanced Directional Drilling Solutionsexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job description


Advanced Directional Drilling, Inc. is seeking a reliable, honest, hard-working Horizontal Drilling Operator / Locator for the East Coast Florida area! Must possess good problem- solving skills and be adaptable. Horizontal Drilling Operator / Locators are responsible for running a variety of tasks associated with underground construction. Will operate heavy equipment and tools associated with construction activities. Must maintain and operate equipment per safety and company guidelines.
The primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Operator/Driller Responsibilities:

  • Operate horizontal directional drill rig (HDD)
  • Operate excavation equipment (backhoe, trencher, hydro-vac, etc.)
  • Operate and maintain vehicles and equipment safely at all times
  • Report vehicle and equipment maintenance requirements to construction manager
  • Repair damaged equipment as directed by the project superintendent
  • Document deficiencies in safety practices/equipment to business unit lead
  • Must be able to communicate with others to convey information effectively.
  • Maintain positive public relations (interact with the customer/public in a courteous manner)
Locator Responsibilities:

  • Walk and confirm bore path, spot utilities
  • Perform job site analysis (JSA) including completion of paperwork
  • Ensure there are proper clearances to install the product per standards and company policies
  • Record the depth of the tool head as required
  • Ensure the drill head is in a good position at the exit pit to connect the product
  • Conducts foreman responsibilities, such as overseeing laborers and/or crew member's work and monitors productivity
  • Oversee laborers and/or crew member’s work and monitor time usage is productive
  • Able to follow and complete tasks assigned by the business unit lead
  • Make sure job site is Safe for employee’s and pedestrians
  • Ensure one call tickets are current
  • Able to read specs and prints
Qualifications:

  • Preferred 2+ years of related experience as a horizontal directional drill rig operator and backhoe operator. Ability to develop bore path plan to ensure all utilities located
  • Preferred 1+ year experience with Falcon F5 Locator;
  • Various related equipment operating experience required, such as mini excavator, Vac Truck, etc
  • Inspect / maintain job equipment and tools
  • Have a clean driving record/; has a CDL license;
  • Must be able to travel thru out Florida with some overnight stay as necessary
  • Basic Computer Skills- e-mail, photo editing, maintain bore logs, red-line drawings, PDF Prints, Digi-mark Software, and basic Excel
Job Type: Full-time

Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $20.00 - $35.00 per hour
Benefits:
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Vision insurance
Schedule:
  • 10 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person