Directional Drill Locator
$24 - $35/hr
A Directional Drill Locator at Team Fishel will interpret the signals sent from underground transmitters about location, angle, temperature and other factors for the drill operator, who operates the ...
Directional Drill Locator
$24 - $35/hr
A Directional Drill Locator at Team Fishel will interpret the signals sent from underground transmitters about location, angle, temperature and other factors for the drill operator, who operates the ...
Directional Drill Locator
$24 - $35/hr
A Directional Drill Locator at Team Fishel will interpret the signals sent from underground transmitters about location, angle, temperature and other factors for the drill operator, who operates the ...
Directional Drill Locator
$24 - $35/hr
A Directional Drill Locator at Team Fishel will interpret the signals sent from underground transmitters about location, angle, temperature and other factors for the drill operator, who operates the ...
Directional Drill Locator
Columbus, OH · On-site
$24 - $35/hr
A Directional Drill Locator at Team Fishel will interpret the signals sent from underground transmitters about location, angle, temperature and other factors for the drill operator, who operates the ...
Directional Drill Locator
Columbus, OH · On-site
$24 - $35/hr
A Directional Drill Locator at Team Fishel will interpret the signals sent from underground transmitters about location, angle, temperature and other factors for the drill operator, who operates the ...
Drill Locator
Ripon, CA · On-site
$28 - $35/hr
Hourly Discover a more connected career The Drill Locator is a critical member of the underground utility crew here at North Sky. You will be responsible for tracking the drill head during horizontal ...
Drill Locator
Ripon, CA · On-site
$28 - $35/hr
Hourly Discover a more connected career The Drill Locator is a critical member of the underground utility crew here at North Sky. You will be responsible for tracking the drill head during horizontal ...
As the Drill Locator, you will ultimately be responsible for safely locating underground bore paths, communicating accurate drill guidance, and supporting successful underground utility installations.
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As the Drill Locator, you will ultimately be responsible for safely locating underground bore paths, communicating accurate drill guidance, and supporting successful underground utility installations.
New
Drill Locator
Columbus, OH · On-site
$15.50 - $19.25/hr
As the Drill Locator, you will ultimately be responsible for safely locating underground bore paths, communicating accurate drill guidance, and supporting successful underground utility installations.
Drill Locator
Columbus, OH · On-site
$15.50 - $19.25/hr
As the Drill Locator, you will ultimately be responsible for safely locating underground bore paths, communicating accurate drill guidance, and supporting successful underground utility installations.
HDD Directional Drill Operator/ Crew Leader Utility Locator Immediate Supervisor: Project Manager, Operations Manager, Owner Position: Exempt Non-Exempt Overtime Required: Yes No General Job Summary:
HDD Directional Drill Operator/ Crew Leader Utility Locator Immediate Supervisor: Project Manager, Operations Manager, Owner Position: Exempt Non-Exempt Overtime Required: Yes No General Job Summary:
HDD Directional Drill Operator/ Crew Leader Utility Locator Immediate Supervisor: Project Manager, Operations Manager, Owner Position: Exempt Non-Exempt Overtime Required: Yes No General Job Summary:
HDD Directional Drill Operator/ Crew Leader Utility Locator Immediate Supervisor: Project Manager, Operations Manager, Owner Position: Exempt Non-Exempt Overtime Required: Yes No General Job Summary:
Drill Locator
Janesville, WI · On-site
$15.75 - $19.75/hr
As the Drill Locator, you will ultimately be responsible for safely locating underground bore paths, communicating accurate drill guidance, and supporting successful underground utility installations.
Quick apply
Drill Locator
Janesville, WI · On-site
$15.75 - $19.75/hr
As the Drill Locator, you will ultimately be responsible for safely locating underground bore paths, communicating accurate drill guidance, and supporting successful underground utility installations.
HDD/ Drill Locator
Warrensburg, MO · On-site
$20 - $30/hr
HDD Directional Drill Operator/ Crew Leader Utility Locator Immediate Supervisor: Project Manager, Operations Manager, Owner Position: Exempt Non-Exempt Overtime Required: Yes No General Job Summary:
Quick apply
HDD/ Drill Locator
Warrensburg, MO · On-site
$20 - $30/hr
HDD Directional Drill Operator/ Crew Leader Utility Locator Immediate Supervisor: Project Manager, Operations Manager, Owner Position: Exempt Non-Exempt Overtime Required: Yes No General Job Summary:
Drill Locator
$16.75 - $21/hr
As the Drill Locator, you will ultimately be responsible for safely locating underground bore paths, communicating accurate drill guidance, and supporting successful underground utility installations.
Drill Locator
$16.75 - $21/hr
As the Drill Locator, you will ultimately be responsible for safely locating underground bore paths, communicating accurate drill guidance, and supporting successful underground utility installations.
HDD/ Drill Locator
Villa Ridge, MO · On-site
HDD Directional Drill Operator/ Crew Leader Utility Locator Immediate Supervisor: Project Manager, Operations Manager, Owner Position: Exempt Non-Exempt Overtime Required: Yes No General Job Summary:
HDD/ Drill Locator
Villa Ridge, MO · On-site
HDD Directional Drill Operator/ Crew Leader Utility Locator Immediate Supervisor: Project Manager, Operations Manager, Owner Position: Exempt Non-Exempt Overtime Required: Yes No General Job Summary:
Drill Locator
Marquette, MI · On-site
$15.50 - $19.50/hr
Job Summary: As the Drill Locator, you will ultimately be responsible for safely locating underground bore paths, communicating accurate drill guidance, and supporting successful utility ...
Quick apply
Drill Locator
Marquette, MI · On-site
$15.50 - $19.50/hr
Job Summary: As the Drill Locator, you will ultimately be responsible for safely locating underground bore paths, communicating accurate drill guidance, and supporting successful utility ...
Drill Locator
Janesville, WI · On-site
$14.75 - $18.50/hr
As the Drill Locator, you will ultimately be responsible for safely locating underground bore paths, communicating accurate drill guidance, and supporting successful underground utility installations.
Drill Locator
Janesville, WI · On-site
$14.75 - $18.50/hr
As the Drill Locator, you will ultimately be responsible for safely locating underground bore paths, communicating accurate drill guidance, and supporting successful underground utility installations.
HDD/ Drill Locator
Villa Ridge, MO · On-site
$20 - $30/hr
HDD Directional Drill Operator/ Crew Leader Utility Locator Immediate Supervisor: Project Manager, Operations Manager, Owner Position: Exempt Non-Exempt Overtime Required: Yes No General Job Summary:
Quick apply
HDD/ Drill Locator
Villa Ridge, MO · On-site
$20 - $30/hr
HDD Directional Drill Operator/ Crew Leader Utility Locator Immediate Supervisor: Project Manager, Operations Manager, Owner Position: Exempt Non-Exempt Overtime Required: Yes No General Job Summary:
Drill Locator
$14.75 - $18.50/hr
As the Drill Locator, you will ultimately be responsible for safely locating underground bore paths, communicating accurate drill guidance, and supporting successful underground utility installations.
Drill Locator
$14.75 - $18.50/hr
As the Drill Locator, you will ultimately be responsible for safely locating underground bore paths, communicating accurate drill guidance, and supporting successful underground utility installations.
Drill Locator
$16 - $20/hr
As the Drill Locator, you will ultimately be responsible for safely locating underground bore paths, communicating accurate drill guidance, and supporting successful underground utility installations.
Drill Locator
$16 - $20/hr
As the Drill Locator, you will ultimately be responsible for safely locating underground bore paths, communicating accurate drill guidance, and supporting successful underground utility installations.
Directional Drill Locator
$24.75 - $30.50/hr
The Directional Drill Locator is responsible for operating locating equipment to track and guide the drill head during horizontal directional drilling (HDD) operations. This role ensures accurate ...
Directional Drill Locator
$24.75 - $30.50/hr
The Directional Drill Locator is responsible for operating locating equipment to track and guide the drill head during horizontal directional drilling (HDD) operations. This role ensures accurate ...
Directional Drill Locator
$21.75 - $27/hr
The Directional Drill Locator is responsible for operating locating equipment to track and guide the drill head during horizontal directional drilling (HDD) operations. This role ensures accurate ...
Directional Drill Locator
$21.75 - $27/hr
The Directional Drill Locator is responsible for operating locating equipment to track and guide the drill head during horizontal directional drilling (HDD) operations. This role ensures accurate ...
Directional Drill Locator
$23.25 - $28.75/hr
A Directional Drill Locator at Team Fishel will interpret the signals sent from underground transmitters about location, angle, temperature and other factors for the drill operator, who operates the ...
Directional Drill Locator
$23.25 - $28.75/hr
A Directional Drill Locator at Team Fishel will interpret the signals sent from underground transmitters about location, angle, temperature and other factors for the drill operator, who operates the ...
Drill Locator information
See salary details
$13.22 - $16.70
2% of jobs
$16.70 - $20.17
20% of jobs
$20.82 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$20.17 - $23.65
13% of jobs
The median wage is $25.68 / hr.
$23.65 - $27.12
25% of jobs
$29.77 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$27.12 - $30.59
19% of jobs
$30.59 - $34.07
8% of jobs
$34.07 - $37.54
6% of jobs
$37.54 - $41.02
3% of jobs
$41.02 - $44.49
1% of jobs
$44.49 - $47.97
0% of jobs
$47.97 - $51.44
2% of jobs
$13
$27
$51
How much do drill locator jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for drill locator in the United States is $27.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $31.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is a drill locator?
Drill Locators are specialized professionals responsible for identifying and marking the precise locations where drilling should occur, often in horizontal directional drilling (HDD) or utility installation projects. They use electronic locating equipment to track drill head locations underground, ensuring accuracy and safety during the drilling process. Drill Locators also help avoid existing utilities, minimize environmental impact, and communicate with drill operators to guide the equipment along the planned path. Their expertise is critical for preventing damage to underground infrastructure and for the successful completion of drilling projects.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drill locator, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Drill Locator, you need a solid understanding of underground utility detection, blueprint reading, and construction site safety, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with locating equipment such as electromagnetic or radio frequency pipe locators and GIS mapping systems is typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities are crucial for coordinating with drilling crews and ensuring precise work. These skills help prevent costly errors, maintain safety standards, and ensure project efficiency in utility and construction environments.
What are some common challenges drill locators face on the job, and how can they be addressed?
Drill Locators often encounter challenges such as accurately identifying underground utilities, working in varying weather conditions, and maintaining clear communication with drilling crews. Misreading signals or missing a utility line can lead to costly damages or safety hazards. To address these issues, it's important to stay up-to-date with locator technology, adhere to safety protocols, and participate in regular training sessions. Building strong teamwork and communication skills with field crews also helps ensure smooth and safe operations.
What is the difference between Drill Locator vs Pipe Locator?
| Aspect | Drill Locator | Pipe Locator |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | OSHA safety training, equipment operation certifications | OSHA safety training, equipment operation certifications |
| Work Environment | Construction sites, drilling projects | Underground utility detection, construction sites |
| Industry Usage | Construction, oil & gas, mining | Utilities, construction, infrastructure |
| Search & Comparison Intent | Understanding drilling equipment, locating drill sites | Locating underground pipes, utilities |
Drill Locators and Pipe Locators both work in construction and utility industries, often using similar equipment and safety certifications. However, Drill Locators focus on identifying drill sites and underground drilling locations, while Pipe Locators specialize in detecting underground pipes and utility lines. Both roles are essential for safe excavation and construction projects, but their specific tasks and environments differ.
How much do drill locators make?
Drill locators typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $60,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. Experienced professionals with specialized skills or working in high-demand areas may earn higher wages.
Is underground utility locator a good job?
Underground utility locators, including drill locators, play a vital role in identifying underground infrastructure to prevent damage during construction. The job typically requires knowledge of mapping tools, safety procedures, and sometimes certifications, and offers steady employment with opportunities for advancement. It can be physically demanding and involves working outdoors in various weather conditions.
More about Drill Locator jobs
What job categories do people searching Drill Locator jobs look for?
The top searched job categories for Drill Locator jobs are:
- Directional Drilling Supervisor
- Internship Hard Rock Directional Drilling
- Hdd Inspector
- Horizontal Directional Drill Locator Travel
- Internship Underground Directional Drilling
- Entry Level The Boring Company
- Directional Drilling Fiber Optics
- Horizontal Drill
- Directional Drilling Manager
- Southeast Directional Drilling
$24 - $35/hr
Full-time
Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO
Re-posted 15 days ago
Team Fishel rating
7.7
Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
Job description
Location Columbus, OH Market General Utility Construction Who is Team Fishel? Since 1936, we've been the Best Choice in utility engineering and construction. Safety is our top priority and is key in everything we do. We're industry professionals driven by high performance for our customers and each other. Interested in joining our Team? Description Team Fishel, the Best Choice Employer in the utility construction business, is looking to hire a Directional Drill Locator for our Columbus, OH location. A Directional Drill Locator at Team Fishel will interpret the signals sent from underground transmitters about location, angle, temperature and other factors for the drill operator, who operates the drill. The Directional Drill Locator will assist our new business projects within our Telecom Construction division. It is also a great opportunity to be part of the team that will keeps Team Fishel as the leader in utility construction industry in Central Ohio as it grows. A Directional Drill Locator at Team Fishel will interpret the signals sent from underground transmitters about location, angle, temperature and other factors for the drill operator, who operates the drill. The average wage range for this position is between $24 and $35/hour, dependent on level of experience. Responsibilities
- Assist as required in all locating aspects of the project as directed by the Drill Operator
- Handle physically demanding construction duties.
- Assist crew members in placing underground pipes, conduits, manual labor and shovel work, operate power tools
- Some experience operating drilling machinery
- Work as a part of a crew.
- Previous underground utility experience
- Must be able to follow instructions
- Have good manual dexterity and machine-controlling skills
- Must be able to stoop, kneel, crouch, dig, and reach
- Must be abl e to lift, carry, and place heavy objects
- Valid Class A CDL Drivers license preferred
- Health Insurance
- Wellness Program
- Life Insurance
- 401(k) Retirement Savings Program
- Profit Sharing
- Paid Leave Benefits
- Teammate Assistance Program
- Learn more ( Español )
What Team Fishel employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About Team Fishel
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Construction
Company size
1,001 - 5,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Columbus, OH, US
Year founded
1936