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Directional Drilling Locator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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

What cities are hiring for Directional Drilling Locator jobs?

Cities with the most Directional Drilling Locator job openings:

What states have the most Directional Drilling Locator jobs?

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

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.

$27 - $33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 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 the 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.  

In addition, you will: 

  • Locate a Horizontal Directional Driller for the 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 the daylighting 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-sized Vermeer or Ditch Witch drills
  • You have the ability to read and understand maps, drawings, and diagrams for the 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. 

Compensation of $27-$33 per hour, depending on the experience. 

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

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
  • Paid sick time

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! 

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.

#MasTecJobs #MasTecCareers #BeSuccessfulWithUs #IAmMasTec #WeAreMasTec #MasTecFamily #MasTecCommunicationsGroup #MasTecCommunicationsCareers #HotJobs

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-sized Vermeer or Ditch Witch drills
  • You have the ability to read and understand maps, drawings, and diagrams for the 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. 

Compensation of $27-$33 per hour, depending on the experience. 

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

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
  • Paid sick time

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! 

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.

#MasTecJobs #MasTecCareers #BeSuccessfulWithUs #IAmMasTec #WeAreMasTec #MasTecFamily #MasTecCommunicationsGroup #MasTecCommunicationsCareers #HotJobs

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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