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Directional Drilling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SimpleHire

Directional Driller

Reno, NV

$30 - $40/hr

Design and execute directional drilling plans to meet project specifications and regulatory requirements, ensuring alignment with our client's engineering standards. * Monitor drilling operations in ...

SimpleHire

Directional Driller

Portland, OR · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Monitor drilling operations in real time, making necessary adjustments to maintain precision and optimize performance. * Collaborate with project managers and site engineers to ensure seamless ...

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 ...

FindTalent

Directional Drill Foreman

Columbus, OH · On-site

$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 ...

24 Seven Talent

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 · 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.

Omax Construction Inc

Be Seen First

Directional Drilling Operator / Locator

Peninsula, OH · On-site

$24 - $29.75/hr

OMAX Construction is a small business that does (HDD) Horizontal Directional Drilling and Excavating. We do a lot of telecom work, but our workload consists of various utilities installation ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Directional Drilling information

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How much do directional drilling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 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 is directional drilling?

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in directional drilling, 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.

What are some common challenges encountered in directional drilling?

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.

How do I become a directional driller?

To become a directional driller, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or an apprenticeship in drilling operations. Many employers prefer candidates with experience in oil and gas or construction, and obtaining certifications such as Well Control or OSHA safety training can improve job prospects.

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.
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Directional Drilling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Directional Drilling job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,296 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Horizontal Directional Drilling Foreman

RMC CONTRACTING LLC

New Port Richey, FL • On-site

$21.50 - $26.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

We are looking for a skilled and dependable HDD Locator to work closely with the drill operator to guide and monitor the bore path during horizontal directional drilling operations. The HDD Locator ensures that drilling is performed accurately, safely, and according to project specifications while avoiding conflicts with existing underground utilities.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Locating and Tracking: Use electronic tracking systems such as Subsite to locate, track, and guide the drill head during bore operations.
  • Communication: Maintain constant communication with the drill operator to provide real-time feedback and guidance during drilling.
  • Utility Avoidance: Identify, locate, and pothole existing utilities using locating equipment to prevent conflicts and ensure safe drilling.
  • Planning: Read and interpret bore plans, blueprints, and utility maps to determine the correct bore path.
  • Site Preparation: Assist with pre-construction site checks, including potholing to expose existing utilities as needed.
  • Documentation: Maintain accurate and up-to-date bore logs, tracking data, and as-built records for project files.
  • Safety Compliance: Follow all company, industry, and OSHA safety standards and ensure safe practices at the job site.
  • Equipment Maintenance: Perform daily inspections and basic maintenance on locating equipment to ensure accuracy and functionality.
  • Problem-Solving: Anticipate and troubleshoot issues with locating signals or bore path deviations, adjusting techniques as needed.

Requirements:

  • Experience: 5+ years of experience in horizontal directional drilling locating.