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Directional Drilling Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

MasTec Communications Group

Directional Drill Locator

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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 ...

Team Fishel

Directional Drill Locator

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... operating trenchers, plows, backhoes, and bobcats 4. Operate tampers, jackhammers, drills, and saws when needed Requirements & Qualifications 1. Must have 2+ years of horizontal directional drilling ...

ByVerTek LLC

Directional Drill Operator

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$38 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this role, you will be responsible for operating directional drilling equipment and supporting underground fiber installation projects, ensuring bore accuracy, utility avoidance, and compliance ...

Career Search

Directional Drill Operator

Tucson, AZ

Responsible for operating directional drilling bore equipment for underground utility construction. * Confirm bore path with install foreman/management and drill locator (including walking the bore ...

ByVerTek LLC

Directional Drill Operator

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$38 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this role, you will be responsible for operating directional drilling equipment and supporting underground fiber installation projects, ensuring bore accuracy, utility avoidance, and compliance ...

MasTec Communications Group

Directional Drill Locator

Tucson, AZ

$26 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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 ...

MasTec Communications Group

Directional Drill Locator

Tucson, AZ

$26 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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 ...

MasTec Communications Group

Directional Drill Locator

Tucson, AZ

$26 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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 ...

MasTec Communications Group

Directional Drill Locator

Tucson, AZ

$26 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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 ...

MasTec Communications Group

Directional Drill Locator

Tucson, AZ

$26 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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 ...

MasTec Communications Group

Directional Drill Locator

Tucson, AZ

$26 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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 ...

MasTec Communications Group

Directional Drill Locator

Tucson, AZ

$26 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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 ...

MasTec Communications Group

Directional Drill Locator

Tucson, AZ

$26 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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 ...

MasTec Communications Group

Directional Drill Locator

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsDirectional Drilling Operator JobsDirectional Drilling Operator Jobs in Arizona

Directional Drilling Operator information

See Arizona salary details

$12

$24

$32

How much do directional drilling operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for directional drilling operator in Arizona is $24.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.73 and $26.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a directional drilling operator?

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.

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

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 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.

How much do directional drilling operators get paid?

Directional drilling operators typically earn between $20 and $40 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $80,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. Experienced operators with specialized skills and certifications can earn higher wages, especially in regions with high demand for oil and gas extraction or infrastructure projects.

Is a directional drilling operator a hard job?

A directional drilling operator's job can be physically demanding and requires operating complex equipment in challenging environments. It often involves long shifts, working outdoors, and maintaining safety protocols, making it a physically and technically challenging role. Proper training and certifications are important for success in this field.

What are popular job titles related to Directional Drilling Operator jobs in Arizona?

For Directional Drilling Operator jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Directional Drilling Operator jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Directional Drilling Operator jobs in Arizona are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Directional Drilling Operator jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Directional Drilling Operator job openings:

Directional Drilling Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Directional Drilling Operator job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,598 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

directional Drilling Operator for bore jobs

EXCAVATING & ELITE SOLUTIONS LLC

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$20.75 - $25.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Directional Drilling operator 
Company: Excavating & Elite Solutions 
Location: Tucson, Arizona 
Employment Type: Full-Time
bilingual preferably.

Excavating & Elite Solutions is an industrial general contractor specializing in telecom network infrastructure. We’re seeking a professional Directional Drilling Operator to join our team! We are a family-built company that values a supportive, close-knit environment. Our mission is to uplift those within our circle by encouraging teamwork, accountability, and growth. We believe in second chances earned through commitment and integrity. We strive to create a workplace where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. 

Position Summary:
The Directional Drilling Operator will be responsible for operating drilling equipment such as vermeer 24x40 and 40x55 performing horizontal boring, The ideal candidate has experience in excavation environment and understands jobs site safety and production expectations. 

Key responsibilities: 
  • Operate drilling rigs and related heavy equipment safely and efficiently 
  • Perform foundation drilling, caisson drilling, tiebacks, soil anchors, or rock drilling is preferred 
  • Read and interpret blueprints and site plans 
  • Conduct pre-trip and daily equipment inspections
  • Work closely with foremen and crew members to meet project deadlines
  • Maintain compliance with OSHA and company safety standards. 

Qualifications:
  • 1+ years of drilling experience (excavation or construction industry preferred)
  • Experience operating drill rigs 
  • Knowledge of soil conditions and drilling techniques 
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions 
  • Strong mechanical aptitude