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Drill Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Columbus, OH

$2.0K - $4.0K/wk

Description 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 ...

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Cincinnati, OH

$350/day

Description 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 ...

FindTalent

Directional Drill Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

Directional Drill Operator Location: Southeastern and Mid-Atlantic Company Overview We are a leading utility construction company specializing in transmission, distribution, substation, and renewable ...

TD&I Cable

Underground Drill Operator

Cold Spring, MN

$24 - $30/hr

Description Job Overview The Underground Utility Drill Operator is responsible for operating directional drill rigs, locating equipment, and product support equipment. This role is crucial in the ...

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

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

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

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

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Salem, OR · On-site

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

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Naples, 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

Drill Operator

Dayton, OH

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 ...

ITG Communications

Drill Operator

Spokane, WA · On-site

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 ...

Zemer Odessa LLC

Epiroc Drill Operator

Odessa, TX · On-site

$22 - $45/hr

Zemer Odessa LLC is seeking a full-time Epiroc Drill Operator to support safe, efficient drilling operations at our onsite location in Odessa, TX. Position Summary The Epiroc Drill Operator is ...

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

Description 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 ...

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

Description 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 ...

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

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

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Saint Petersburg, 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 ...

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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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Drill Operator jobs near you
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.

Drill Operator

Utilities One

Columbus, OH

$2.0K - $4.0K/wk

Contractor

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Description
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 underground utility installation, who are ready to work in a fast-paced environment and contribute to high-quality infrastructure projects across Ohio.

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;
  • Valid Class A CDL required;
  • 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;
  • Weekly payments (every Friday);
  • All equipment and tools provided;
  • Career advancement opportunities;
  • Weekly pay range varies depending on productivity (paid per foot).