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Drill Locator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Utilities One

Drill Locator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$200 - $300/day

Drill Locator Department: Operations Employment Type: Contract Location: United States - Chicago, IL Reporting To: Denis Mezer Compensation: $200 - $300 / day Description We are looking for qualified ...

Utilities One

Drill Locator

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$200 - $300/day

Drill Locator Department: Operations Employment Type: Contract Location: United States - Indianapolis, IN Reporting To: Denis Mezer Compensation: $200 - $300 / day Description We are looking for ...

Utilities One

Drill Locator

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$200 - $300/day

Drill Locator Department: Operations Employment Type: Contract Location: United States - Cincinnati, OH Reporting To: Denis Mezer Compensation: $200 - $300 / day Description We are looking for ...

Utilities One

Drill Locator

Columbus, OH · On-site

$200 - $300/day

Drill Locator Department: Operations Employment Type: Contract Location: United States - Columbus, OH Reporting To: Denis Mezer Compensation: $200 - $300 / day Description We are looking for ...

Utilities One

Drill Locator

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$200 - $300/day

The role of a Drill Locator includes interpreting signals from underground transmitters to provide the drill operator with location, angle, temperature, and other information. We expect you to ...

Utilities One

Drill Locator

Columbus, OH · On-site

$200 - $300/day

The role of a Drill Locator includes interpreting signals from underground transmitters to provide the drill operator with location, angle, temperature, and other information. We expect you to ...

Utilities One

Drill Locator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$200 - $300/day

The role of a Drill Locator includes interpreting signals from underground transmitters to provide the drill operator with location, angle, temperature, and other information. We expect you to ...

Utilities One

Drill Locator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$200 - $300/day

The role of a Drill Locator includes interpreting signals from underground transmitters to provide the drill operator with location, angle, temperature, and other information. We expect you to ...

Utilities One

Drill Locator

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$200 - $300/day

The role of a Drill Locator includes interpreting signals from underground transmitters to provide the drill operator with location, angle, temperature, and other information. We expect you to ...

Team Fishel

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 ...

Sunrise Telecom

HDD/ Drill Locator

Chandler, AZ · 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:

Sunrise Telecom

HDD/ Drill Locator

Chandler, AZ · 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:

Congruex

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.

Team Fishel

Directional Drill Locator

Akron, OH · On-site

$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 ...

Dycom Industries, Inc.

Bore Drill Locator II

Selma, CA · On-site

$21 - $28/hr

Hourly Discover a more connected career At North Sky Communications, LLC , as a Bore Drill Locator II , you'll help the horizontal directional drilling (HDD) locating operations by tracking, guiding ...

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All JobsDrill Locator Jobs

Drill Locator information

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$13

$27

$51

How much do drill locator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 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?

AspectDrill LocatorPipe Locator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operation certificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operation certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, drilling projectsUnderground utility detection, construction sites
Industry UsageConstruction, oil & gas, miningUtilities, construction, infrastructure
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding drilling equipment, locating drill sitesLocating 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.
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What are popular job titles related to Drill Locator jobs?

For Drill Locator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Drill Locator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drill Locator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,917 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Drill Locator

Chicago, IL • On-site

Utilities One
Utilities • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Utilities Oneexternal

$200 - $300/day

Contractor

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Drill Locator
Department: Operations
Employment Type: Contract
Location: United States - Chicago, IL
Reporting To: Denis Mezer
Compensation: $200 - $300 / day
Description
We are looking for qualified Drill Locators for the Midwest market.
The role of a Drill Locator includes interpreting signals from underground transmitters to provide the drill operator with location, angle, temperature, and other information. We expect you to perform skilled HDD-locating activities, along with your knowledge of industry standards, policies, guidelines, and procedures.
Key Responsibilities
  • Assist as required in all locating aspects of the project as directed by the Drill Operator;
  • Perform job site analysis (JSA), including completion of paperwork;
  • Locate utilities with locating systems;
  • Record the depth of the tool head as required;
  • Handle physically demanding construction duties;
  • Ensure the safety of the public and other utilities' underground facilities;
  • Perform other duties and tasks as assigned to help the team complete a project.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
  • At least 1 year of experience as a Drill Locator;
  • A valid, unrestricted CDL Class A/B is preferred;
  • Proven experience in underground utility construction;
  • Read, understand, and interpret engineering plans and specifications;
  • Ability to lift around 50 pounds, safely climb ladders, and work in extreme weather;
  • Ability to travel 80% of the time to different job sites within the market.

Benefits
  • Competitive Rates;
  • Weekly payments - each Friday;
  • All equipment, tools, and machinery provided;
  • Career Advancement Opportunities.

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