ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Directional Drilling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

$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 ...

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 ...

Hayden Tower Service, Inc.

Directional Driller

Topeka, KS · On-site

$22.75 - $28.25/hr

One to two years' directional drilling experience, preferred, in the safe operation and basic maintenance of Vermeer products. Job Function: * Work on horizontal directional drilling projects of all ...

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

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 ...

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 ...

Hayden Tower Service, Inc.

Directional Driller

Topeka, KS · On-site

$22.75 - $28.25/hr

One to two years' directional drilling experience, preferred, in the safe operation and basic maintenance of Vermeer products. Job Function: * Work on horizontal directional drilling projects of all ...

347 Group, Inc.

Be Seen First

Directional Driller

Idaho Falls, ID · On-site

$28 - $38/hr

Compensation based on experience. (Heavy Equipment, Directional Drilling, Telecom, Underground Utilities, Operator, Tanker Endorsement) Company Description About us: 347 Group, Inc. provides staffing ...

347 Group, Inc.

Be Seen First

Directional Driller

Boise, ID · On-site

$28 - $38/hr

Compensation based on experience. (Heavy Equipment, Directional Drilling, Telecom, Underground Utilities, Operator, Tanker Endorsement) Company Description About us: 347 Group, Inc. provides staffing ...

347 Group, Inc.

Be Seen First

Directional Driller

Blackfoot, ID · On-site

$28 - $38/hr

Compensation based on experience. (Heavy Equipment, Directional Drilling, Telecom, Underground Utilities, Operator, Tanker Endorsement) Company Description About us: 347 Group, Inc. provides staffing ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsConstruction JobsDrilling JobsDriller JobsDirectional Drilling Jobs

Directional Drilling information

See salary details

$13

$26

$34

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.
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 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 Driller

Essel

Manassas, VA • On-site

$24.25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Job Title:

Horizontal Directional Driller

Company:

Essel

Job Overview:

Essel is seeking a skilled Horizontal Directional Driller to lead drilling operations for underground utility installations. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience operating drilling equipment, interpreting site plans, and ensuring projects are completed safely, on time, and to spec.

Responsibilities:
  • Lead and operate horizontal directional drilling equipment for installation of pipelines, cables, and conduits.
  • Interpret blueprints and drilling plans to accurately execute drilling paths.
  • Perform routine inspections and maintenance of drilling machinery.
  • Supervise the drilling crew to ensure efficient and safe operations.
  • Identify and troubleshoot problems during drill operations to minimize delays.
  • Adhere to all safety regulations and company policies.
  • Coordinate with project managers and other stakeholders regarding project progress and requirements.
Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum of 5 years experience as a Horizontal Directional Driller or similar role.
  • Proficiency with horizontal directional drilling equipment and technologies.
  • Strong ability to read and understand technical drawings and site plans.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and teamwork skills.
  • Capable of working in physical and outdoor conditions.
  • Valid driver’s license.

Requirements

  • Certification or formal training in horizontal directional drilling preferred.
  • Experience in utility construction or civil infrastructure projects is an asset.
  • Ability to work flexible hours including weekends and overtime as needed.
  • Commitment to workplace safety and compliance with industry standards.