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Directional Drilling Locator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NTI Connect

Horizontal Directional Drill Locator

Manassas, VA · On-site

$24.25 - $30/hr

HDD Locator (Horizontal Directional Drilling Locator) Position Type: Full-Time Reports To: HDD Foreman Location: Manassas VA If being a part of a world-class organization that operates in some of the ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Directional Drilling Locator information

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$13

$26

$34

How much do directional drilling locator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 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.

More about Directional Drilling Locator jobs

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What states have the most Directional Drilling Locator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Directional Drilling Locator jobs include:

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The top searched job categories for Directional Drilling Locator jobs are:

Directional Drilling Locator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Directional Drilling Locator job openings in the United States as of August 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 Drill Locator

NTI Connect

Manassas, VA • On-site

$24.25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Title: HDD Locator (Horizontal Directional Drilling Locator) Position Type: Full-Time Reports To: HDD Foreman Location: Manassas VA If being a part of a world-class organization that operates in some of the most advanced technological environments around the world sounds like a dream job, Network Connex might be the right fit for you! You'll be part of a team working together to solve customer problems every day, with compensation and benefits that are an investment in your career, financial future, and overall well-being. Position Summary The HDD Locator is responsible for monitoring and guiding horizontal directional drilling operations by accurately reading and interpreting locating equipment. This role ensures bore paths are completed safely, efficiently, and according to engineered design. The Locator works closely with the HDD Operator, Foreman, and field crew to avoid underground utilities, maintain proper depth and alignment, and ensure successful completions of pilot bores and pullbacks. Key Responsibilities Locating & Bore Guidance
  • Operate and interpret HDD locating equipment to track drill head position, depth, pitch, and direction.
  • Communicate continuous drilling feedback to the HDD Operator.
  • Guide bores according to design specifications, prints, and utility locates.
  • Adjust bore path in real-time to avoid conflicts with existing underground utilities.
Safety & Compliance
  • Maintain strict adherence to OSHA, company, and industry safety standards.
  • Participate in daily safety meetings and job hazard analyses (JHAs).
  • Ensure safe digging practices around active utilities and sensitive infrastructure.
  • Assist with potholing, hand-digging, and exposure of utilities as required.
Documentation & Reporting
  • Record bore logs, depth measurements, shots, and tracking information.
  • Assist with as-built documentation and production records.
  • Report deviations, obstructions, or abnormal conditions to the Foreman.
Construction Support
  • Assist with setup of drilling equipment, mud systems, and work areas.
  • Support the crew during pullback, reaming, and equipment movement activities.
  • Help maintain a clean and organized job site.
Equipment Care
  • Maintain locating equipment (transmitters, receivers, batteries, chargers) in good working order.
  • Perform daily function checks to ensure accuracy and calibration.
  • Report equipment issues immediately.
Required Qualifications Experience
  • 1-3 years of locating experience in HDD, utilities, or underground construction.
  • Experience with Ditch Witch, Subsite, DigiTrak, or Vermeer locating systems preferred.
  • OSP telecommunications experience strongly preferred.
Skills & Competencies
  • Strong understanding of bore planning, underground utilities, and safe digging practices.
  • Ability to read construction prints, utility locates and bore path designs.
  • Excellent communication skills for real-time coordination with the Operator.
  • Strong situational awareness and problem-solving ability.
  • Ability to work in fast-paced outdoor environments.
Licenses & Certifications
  • Valid driver's license required (Class A CDL preferred).
  • OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification preferred.
  • Manufacturer training on locating equipment (preferred).
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to lift 50-75 lbs regularly.
  • Work outdoors in varying weather and terrain conditions.
  • Ability to walk long distances, bend, stoop, and stand for extended periods.
  • Ability to work in trenches, near roadways, and around active equipment.
Work Environment
  • Outdoor construction environments with exposure to weather, heavy equipment, mud, and traffic.
  • Travel between job sites may be required.
In addition to competitive base pay, Network Connex offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your physical, mental, and financial health and you can begin participating in our programs on the first of the month following your start date. Join our Vanguard 401(k) plan, with immediate vesting and a generous 5% company match to help you build long-term financial security. Our team also enjoys 10 paid company holidays, a generous PTO accrual schedule, and access to discounts on useful products and services. EEOC-Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran Network Connex believes all persons are entitled to equal employment opportunities and does not discriminate against employees or job applicants because of race, color, gender, affectional or sexual orientation, domestic partnership status, ancestry, religion, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, disability, veteran status, age or any other protected group status. Upon acceptance of an offer, all candidates will be required to pass a background check and drug screening.

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