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Directional Drilling Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

B&M Ashman

Directional Drill Operator

Canton, MI · On-site

Directional Drill Operator The Directional Drill Operator is responsible for operating ... different directional drilling and other equipment required for underground construction.

B&M Ashman

Directional Drill Operator

Mason, MI

Directional Drill Operator The Directional Drill Operator is responsible for operating ... different directional drilling and other equipment required for underground construction.

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Directional Drilling Operator information

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?

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 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.
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What job categories do people searching Directional Drilling Operator jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Directional Drilling Operator jobs in Michigan are:
Directional Drilling Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Directional Drilling Operator job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

DIRECTIONAL DRILL OPERATOR

Michigan Broadband Services

Carney, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

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

Job description

Directional Drill Operator


Due to the extensive and continuous growth of Michigan Broadband Services, we are currently seeking to add additional full-time Directional Drill Operators to our team. Joining Michigan Broadband Services provides you with the opportunity to expand technology across our communities with the highest level of quality and safety.

The ideal candidate will hold a Class A CDL license, have a minimum of 1 year experience using a directional drill, understand ground conditions for buried facilities, and be familiar with the placement of fiber optic facilities.

This position will include travel throughout our footprint in Upper Michigan and northern Lower Michigan. Overtime and some weekends are required.

Duties and Responsibilities:


  • Assemble and position the directional drill
  • Spot and expose utilities after they have been located
  • Communicate with the locator to confirm the location of the drill head
  • Calculate speeds and feeds; ability to start, stop, and control - verify depth and level of position
  • Ensure the safety of the public, co-workers, and other underground utility facilities
  • Transport heavy equipment to and from the job site as needed
  • Conduct daily general maintenance of drill and equipment
  • Complete daily paperwork for bore logs, vehicle and equipment maintenance, etc. and report back to the Supervisor

Qualifications:


  • Minimum of 1 year of experience operating a directional drill
  • Preference given to experience with Vermeer or DitchWitch directional drills
  • Strong interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with co-workers and management
  • Ability to read and understand maps, drawings, and diagrams for project build processes
  • Comfortable working long hours and in all weather conditions
  • 2 years of utility directional drilling experience is preferred
  • Class A CDL required

Benefits:


  • Competitive wage
  • Health, dental and life insurance
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • PTO and holiday pay

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