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Directional Drilling Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Turner Mining Group

$22 - $27/hr

... directional drilling crew ... This individual will work closely with an experienced drill operator to safely and accurately ...

Turner Mining Group

$22 - $27/hr

... directional drilling crew ... This individual will work closely with an experienced drill operator to safely and accurately ...

FindTalent

Directional Drill Operator

Richmond, VA

The ideal candidate will have experience operating directional drilling equipment to install underground utilities efficiently and safely. This role requires attention to detail, adherence to safety ...

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Directional Drilling Operator information

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$13

$26

$34

How much do directional drilling operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for directional drilling operator 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 do you need to be a directional drill operator?

To become a directional drill operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with training or experience in operating drilling equipment. Certification in equipment operation and safety procedures is often required, and physical stamina and the ability to work in confined or outdoor environments are important. Some employers may prefer candidates with technical or vocational training related to construction or drilling technology.

What are some common challenges Directional Drilling Operators face when working on remote drilling sites?

Directional Drilling Operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing subsurface conditions, maintaining precise control over wellbore trajectory, and ensuring clear communication between field teams and remote engineers. Working in remote locations can also mean dealing with limited access to resources and extended shifts, which require strong problem-solving skills and resilience. Operators must be comfortable troubleshooting equipment in the field and collaborating closely with drilling engineers, geologists, and rig crews to ensure safe and efficient drilling operations.

What is the difference between Directional Drilling Operator vs Horizontal Drilling Technician?

AspectDirectional Drilling OperatorHorizontal Drilling Technician
CertificationsOSHA safety training, CDL often preferredOSHA safety training, CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentOn-site at drilling locations, outdoor, industrialOn-site at drilling locations, outdoor, industrial
Industry UsageOil & gas, energy sectorsOil & gas, energy sectors
Job FocusOperating drilling equipment, steering boreholesAssisting with horizontal well installation, equipment setup

Both roles are integral to drilling operations in the oil and gas industry, often working together on-site. The Directional Drilling Operator primarily operates and controls the drilling equipment to steer boreholes accurately, while the Horizontal Drilling Technician supports the setup and maintenance of horizontal drilling systems. Both require safety certifications and industry experience, but the operator role emphasizes equipment operation and navigation of boreholes.

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

To thrive as a Directional Drilling Operator, you need expertise in drilling techniques, understanding of geology, and typically a background in petroleum engineering or relevant field experience. Proficiency with measurement-while-drilling (MWD) and logging-while-drilling (LWD) tools, as well as familiarity with drilling software and rig systems, is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure precise well placement, safe operations, and efficient teamwork in challenging drilling environments.

What's boring in construction?

In construction, boring refers to the process of creating a hole or tunnel underground using specialized equipment like horizontal directional drills. Directional drilling operators use this technique to install utilities or pipelines with minimal surface disruption, often working in confined spaces and requiring precise control and safety measures.

What are Directional Drilling Operators?

Directional Drilling Operators are skilled professionals responsible for controlling and guiding drilling equipment to create wells that follow specific underground paths, rather than drilling straight down. They use advanced technology and real-time data to steer the drill bit, often to reach oil or gas reserves that are not directly beneath the drilling site. Their expertise allows for more efficient extraction of resources and minimizes the environmental impact. Directional Drilling Operators work closely with engineers and geologists to achieve precise drilling targets.

Is directional drilling a good career?

Directional drilling operators play a key role in the oil and gas industry by operating specialized equipment to drill at precise angles. The job often requires technical skills, physical stamina, and safety training, with opportunities for advancement and competitive pay. It can be a stable career for those interested in the energy sector and willing to work in challenging environments.

How much do directional drill operators make?

Directional drill operators typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Experienced operators with specialized skills can earn higher wages, especially in regions with high demand for underground construction and infrastructure projects.
More about Directional Drilling Operator jobs
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Directional Drilling Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Directional Drilling Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 76% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,296 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Horizontal Directional Drilling Operator / Locator

Advanced Directional Drilling Solutions

Daytona Beach, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Health insurance

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