ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Directional Drilling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FindTalent

Directional Drill Foreman

Columbus, OH

$23.50 - $29/hr

Supervise and lead a directional drilling crew in the installation of underground utilities * Operate and maintain directional drilling equipment efficiently and safely * Coordinate with project ...

Essel

Directional Driller

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$20 - $40/hr

Conduct pre-operational checks on directional drilling equipment and perform necessary maintenance. * Read and interpret plans, maps, and specifications to determine locations for drilling. * Monitor ...

Essel

Directional Driller

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$20 - $40/hr

Conduct pre-operational checks on directional drilling equipment and perform necessary maintenance. * Read and interpret plans, maps, and specifications to determine locations for drilling. * Monitor ...

Essel

Horizontal Directional Driller

Manassas, VA · On-site

$24.25 - $30/hr

Lead and operate horizontal directional drilling equipment for installation of pipelines, cables, and conduits. * Interpret blueprints and drilling plans to accurately execute drilling paths.

Essel

Horizontal Directional Driller

Manassas, VA · On-site

$24.25 - $30/hr

Lead and operate horizontal directional drilling equipment for installation of pipelines, cables, and conduits. * Interpret blueprints and drilling plans to accurately execute drilling paths.

FindTalent

Directional Drill Foreman

Richmond, VA · On-site

$24 - $29.75/hr

Supervise and lead a directional drilling crew in the installation of underground utilities * Operate and maintain directional drilling equipment efficiently and safely * Coordinate with project ...

Essel

Horizontal Directional Driller

Manassas, VA

$24.25 - $30/hr

Lead and operate horizontal directional drilling equipment for installation of pipelines, cables, and conduits. * Interpret blueprints and drilling plans to accurately execute drilling paths.

Miller Pipeline

Directional Driller

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$22.50 - $27.75/hr

Successful candidates must be able to communicate effectively, have prior work experience with a directional drilling operation, and have knowledge of underground utilities. Main Responsibilities:

Essel

Directional Driller

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$20 - $40/hr

Conduct pre-operational checks on directional drilling equipment and perform necessary maintenance. * Read and interpret plans, maps, and specifications to determine locations for drilling. * Monitor ...

Miller Pipeline

Directional Driller

Reserve, LA · On-site

$24.25 - $30/hr

Successful candidates must be able to communicate effectively, have prior work experience with a directional drilling operation, and have knowledge of underground utilities. Main Responsibilities:

Miller Pipeline

Directional Driller

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

Successful candidates must be able to communicate effectively, have prior work experience with a directional drilling operation, and have knowledge of underground utilities. Main Responsibilities:

Miller Pipeline

Directional Driller

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$22.50 - $27.75/hr

Successful candidates must be able to communicate effectively, have prior work experience with a directional drilling operation, and have knowledge of underground utilities. Main Responsibilities:

Hayden Tower Service, Inc.

Directional Driller

Topeka, KS · On-site

$50K - $80K/yr

Work on horizontal directional drilling projects of all sizes. * Pre-walk and white line projects. * Load, unload and transport construction materials, machines and tools. * Safely and efficiently ...

Miller Pipeline

Directional Driller

Reserve, LA · On-site

$24.25 - $30/hr

Successful candidates must be able to communicate effectively, have prior work experience with a directional drilling operation, and have knowledge of underground utilities. Main Responsibilities:

Miller Pipeline

Directional Driller

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

Successful candidates must be able to communicate effectively, have prior work experience with a directional drilling operation, and have knowledge of underground utilities. Main Responsibilities:

Thayer Power and Communication

Directional Driller

Tampa, FL · On-site

$23 - $28.25/hr

Operate horizontal/directional drilling rigs (mini, midi, and/or maxi rigs as assigned) to install underground electrical conduit, fiber, and related utilities along the predetermined bore path.

Hayden Tower Service, Inc.

Directional Driller

Topeka, KS · On-site

$22.75 - $28.25/hr

Work on horizontal directional drilling projects of all sizes. * Pre-walk and white line projects. * Load, unload and transport construction materials, machines and tools. * Safely and efficiently ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDirectional Drilling Jobs

Directional Drilling information

See salary details

$13

$26

$34

How much do directional drilling jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for directional drilling 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 does a directional driller do?

A directional driller operates specialized equipment to steer drilling paths for underground projects such as pipelines, utilities, or oil and gas wells. They interpret geological data, use tools like gyroscopic or magnetic guidance systems, and ensure precise drilling while maintaining safety standards. This role requires technical skills, certifications, and the ability to work in challenging 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. It requires precision, knowledge of soil conditions, and often involves operating large machinery in confined or challenging environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Directional Drilling position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Directional Drilling, a strong background in geology, drilling engineering, and mechanical aptitude is generally required, often supported by relevant technical certifications or a degree in a related field. Proficiency with directional drilling tools and software such as Measurement While Drilling (MWD) and Logging While Drilling (LWD) systems is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills in this role. These competencies are critical for ensuring drilling operations are executed efficiently, safely, and according to plan, often under challenging field conditions.

Is directional drilling a hard job?

Directional drilling is physically demanding and requires technical skills, including operating specialized equipment and understanding subsurface geology. It often involves working in challenging environments, long shifts, and adhering to safety protocols, making it a physically and mentally demanding profession.

What does directional drilling pay?

Directional drilling technicians typically earn between $20 and $40 per hour, with experienced workers and those in supervisory roles earning higher wages. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, certifications, and the complexity of projects, often supplemented by overtime and benefits.

What are some common challenges encountered in a Directional Drilling role?

Directional Drilling professionals often face challenges such as adapting to unexpected geological formations, managing complex well trajectories, and ensuring real-time communication with surface teams. The role can also involve extended shifts in remote locations, requiring the ability to quickly troubleshoot under pressure. Success in this position depends on a strong understanding of drilling technology, adaptability to changing conditions, and effective collaboration with drill site personnel and engineers. Overcoming these challenges is key to maintaining project timelines, safety standards, and cost efficiency.

What is a Directional Drilling job?

A Directional Drilling job involves guiding and controlling the direction of a wellbore to reach a specific underground target. It is commonly used in oil and gas extraction to access reservoirs that are difficult to reach with vertical drilling. Directional drillers use specialized tools and technology, such as rotary steerable systems and downhole motors, to steer the wellbore. This technique improves resource recovery, minimizes environmental impact, and enhances drilling efficiency.

More about Directional Drilling jobs
What cities are hiring for Directional Drilling jobs? Cities with the most Directional Drilling job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Directional Drilling jobs? The most popular types of Directional Drilling jobs are:
What states have the most Directional Drilling jobs? States with the most job openings for Directional Drilling jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Directional Drilling jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Directional Drilling jobs are:
Directional Drilling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Directional Drilling job openings in the United States as of June 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 Drilling Locator

Horizontal Directional Drilling Locator

Dycom Industries, Inc.

Hurst, TX • On-site

$21.50 - $26.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Dycom Industries rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Fort Worth, TX
Workplace Type: Field
Employment Type: Hourly Unit
Discover a more connected career
We are seeking a skilled Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) Locator to join our team. This role involves operating heavy equipment and accurately locating underground pipelines and utilities during directional drilling projects. The ideal candidate will have construction site experience, mechanical knowledge, and familiarity with various construction machinery. The HDD Locator plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and precision of underground installations, supporting projects in the oil & gas, water, and telecommunications sectors.
Connecting you to great benefits
  • Weekly Paychecks
  • Paid Time Off, Parental Leave, and Holidays
  • Insurance (including medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, disability, life insurance)
  • 401(k) w/ Company Match
  • Stock Purchase Plan
  • Education Reimbursement
  • Legal Insurance
  • Discounts on gym memberships, pet insurance, and much more!

What you'll do
• Operate and monitor HDD locating equipment to track underground pipelines and utilities during directional drilling operations
• Assist with the setup and calibration of locating tools and machinery
• Conduct thorough site assessments to identify potential hazards and ensure compliance with safety standards, including OSHA regulations
• Collaborate with drilling crews to coordinate equipment movements and project timelines
• Maintain detailed records of locate data, measurements, and project progress
• Perform routine inspections of heavy equipment such as excavators, forklifts, water trucks, and other machinery
• Support construction activities by operating or assisting with excavation, pipeline installation, or related tasks as needed
• Ensure all work is performed safely, adhering to industry standards for construction site safety and environmental protection
What you'll need
  • Heavy equipment operation experience, including excavators, forklifts, water trucks, and tankers
  • Mechanical knowledge related to construction machinery and pipeline systems
  • Proficiency in horizontal drilling techniques and underground utility location methods
  • Familiarity with OSHA safety standards and construction site protocols
  • Construction site experience with a focus on pipeline installation or oil & gas projects
  • Ability to operate commercial vehicles in compliance with licensing requirements
  • Knowledge of Caterpillar equipment operation is a plus
  • Valid state driver's license (non-provisional) with a clean driving record
  • Strong attention to detail with excellent problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment on demanding construction sites

Physical abilities & exposures
  • Routinely: work alone in remote locations with arms above shoulder level, operate vehicle, squeeze, fine hand motion, bend, stoop, stand, walk, lift up to 55 pounds, use keyboard and mouse
  • Occasionally: use portable ladder, work in confined spaces and climb stairs

IND1
Why grow your career with us
Your career here is more than just a job - it's your pathway to opportunity. Our hands-on training, supportive environment, and responsive leadership connect you to work with purpose. Our commitment to you extends beyond professional development to a safety-first culture that ensures you can do what you do best, with peace of mind.
Building stronger solutions together
Our company is an equal-opportunity employer - we are committed to providing a work environment where everyone can thrive, grow, and feel connected.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
Req Id:

What Dycom Industries employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply