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Drill Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Drill Operator

Naples, FL · On-site

$250 - $300/day

Drill Operator Department: Operations Employment Type: Contract Location: United States - Naples, FL Reporting To: Denis Mezer Compensation: $250 - $300 / day Description Utilities One is seeking an ...

Drill Operator

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$350/day

Drill Operator Department: Operations Employment Type: Contract Location: United States - Cincinnati, OH Reporting To: Denis Mezer Compensation: $350 / day Description Utilities One is seeking an ...

Drill Operator

Seattle, WA · On-site

$300 - $350/day

Drill Operator Department: Operations Employment Type: Contract Location: United States - Seattle, WA Reporting To: Denis Mezer Compensation: $300 - $350 / day Description Utilities One is seeking an ...

Drill Operator

Tampa, FL · On-site

$2.0K - $4.0K/wk

Drill Operator Department: Operations Employment Type: Contract Location: United States - Tampa, FL Reporting To: Denis Mezer Compensation: $2,000 - $4,000 / week Description Utilities One is seeking ...

Drill Operator

Seattle, WA · On-site

$2.0K - $4.0K/wk

Drill Operator Department: Operations Employment Type: Contract Location: United States - Seattle, WA Reporting To: Denis Mezer Compensation: $2,000 - $4,000 / week Description Utilities One is ...

The Drill Operator is responsible for operating horizontal directional drilling (HDD) equipment to install conduit, fiber, or utility infrastructure as part of construction projects. This position ...

Drill Operator

Odessa, TX · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

We are looking for experienced operators to operate a Drill EPIROC D-60 with DTH (Down the hole) Hammer within the mining industry. We have immediate openings, and the starting pay is $28-$30/HR DOE.

Utilities One is seeking an experienced Drill Operator to join our team in the Florida Region . This role is ideal for candidates with strong experience in Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) and ...

DRILL OPERATOR

Henderson, CO · On-site

$36 - $38/hr

As a Driller, you will be responsible for operating the drilling equipment used in horizontal directional drilling projects. You will operate various equipment such as excavators, trenchers, or ...

Drill Operator

Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site

$250 - $300/day

Description Utilities One is seeking an experienced Drill Operator to join our team in the Florida Region . This role is ideal for candidates with strong experience in Horizontal Directional Drilling ...

Utilities One is seeking an experienced Drill Operator to join our team in the Indiana Region . This role is ideal for candidates with strong experience in Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) and ...

Drill Operator

Naples, FL · On-site

$250 - $300/day

Utilities One is seeking an experienced Drill Operator to join our team in the Florida Region . This role is ideal for candidates with strong experience in Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) and ...

Drill Operator

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$350/day

Utilities One is seeking an experienced Drill Operator to join our team in the Ohio Region . This role is ideal for candidates with strong experience in Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) and ...

Drill Operator

Seattle, WA · On-site

$300 - $350/day

Utilities One is seeking an experienced Drill Operator with Spanish language skills to join our team in the Pacific Northwest Region . This role is ideal for candidates with strong experience in ...

Utilities One is seeking an experienced Drill Operator with Spanish language skills to join our team in the Pacific Northwest Region . This role is ideal for candidates with strong experience in ...

Drill Operator

Odessa, TX · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

We are looking for experienced operators to operate a Drill EPIROC D-60 with DTH (Down the hole) Hammer within the mining industry. We have immediate openings, and the starting pay is $28-$30/HR DOE.

Drill Operator

Fort Myers, FL · On-site

$250 - $300/day

Utilities One is seeking an experienced Drill Operator to join our team in the Florida Region . This role is ideal for candidates with strong experience in Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) and ...

Showing results 21-40

Drill Operator information

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$13

$27

$51

How much do drill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for drill operator 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 operator?

Drill Operators are skilled workers who operate drilling machinery used to bore holes in the earth for purposes such as exploration, construction, mining, or extraction of natural resources. They are responsible for setting up, maintaining, and safely operating drilling rigs, monitoring equipment, and ensuring the drilling process runs smoothly. Drill Operators often work in challenging environments and must adhere to strict safety protocols. Their role may also include performing routine maintenance on equipment and troubleshooting issues that arise during drilling operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drill operator?

To thrive as a Drill Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, experience with drilling equipment, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with drilling rigs, safety protocols, and certifications such as OSHA or MSHA are often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and precise drilling operations in potentially hazardous environments.

What are some common challenges faced by drill operators in the field, and how can they be managed?

Drill Operators often encounter challenges such as working in difficult weather conditions, maintaining equipment reliability, and adhering to strict safety protocols. These can be managed by consistently following maintenance schedules, staying up to date with safety training, and communicating effectively with team members to address issues promptly. A proactive approach to equipment checks and a strong safety mindset help ensure both productivity and well-being on the job site.

What is the difference between Drill Operator vs Drilling Rig Worker?

AspectDrill OperatorDrilling Rig Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma, OSHA safety training, possibly certification in drilling operationsHigh school diploma, safety training, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentOperate drilling machinery on construction sites, oil fields, or mining locationsAssist with rig setup, maintenance, and support tasks on drilling sites
Industry UsageCommonly employed in oil & gas, construction, mining industriesTypically found in oil & gas, mining, and construction sectors

While both roles work on drilling sites, the Drill Operator primarily operates and controls drilling equipment, whereas the Drilling Rig Worker supports the operation through maintenance and assistance tasks. The Drill Operator usually has more specialized training and responsibility for the drilling process.

How to become a drill operator?

To become a drill operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or an apprenticeship to learn how to operate drilling equipment safely. Some employers may require certification in equipment operation or safety procedures, and physical fitness is often necessary due to the demanding nature of the work environment.

Is drilling a good career?

Drill operators play a key role in industries such as construction, mining, and oil and gas extraction, often working with heavy equipment and requiring safety training and certifications. The career can offer stable employment and competitive wages, but it may involve physically demanding work, irregular hours, and exposure to hazardous conditions.
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Infographic showing various Drill Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,917 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

$250 - $300/day

Contractor

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Drill Operator
Department: Operations
Employment Type: Contract
Location: United States - Naples, FL
Reporting To: Denis Mezer
Compensation: $250 - $300 / day
Description
Utilities One is seeking an experienced Drill Operator to join our team in the Florida Region. This role is ideal for candidates with strong experience in Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) and underground utility installation, who are ready to work in a fast-paced environment and contribute to high-quality infrastructure projects across Florida.
Key Responsibilities
  • Perform preparatory work before drilling operations;
  • Operate Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) machines for underground cable installation;
  • Install underground utilities, including boring, trenching, and related tasks;
  • Operate and locate utilities using an appropriate locating system;
  • Remove and transfer poles, set and install new underground cables;
  • Ensure proper clearances and compliance with installation standards;
  • Maintain the safety of the public and protect underground utility facilities;
  • Analyze job sites and complete required paperwork and documentation;
  • Investigate company service complaints and perform necessary repairs;
  • Travel to job sites as needed and perform assigned tasks with high quality and professionalism;
  • Perform other duties as assigned to support successful project completion.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
  • At least 2 years of HDD/Drilling experience;
  • A valid CDL is preferred;
  • Proven experience operating heavy construction equipment, especially drilling and boring machinery;
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering plans and specifications;
  • Ability to sit, stand, bend, walk, and ride in vehicles for extended periods;
  • Willingness to work in all-weather environments and travel as needed.

Benefits
  • Competitive compensation;
  • Accommodation provided;
  • All equipment and tools provided;
  • Career advancement opportunities.