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Drilling Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Fort Wayne, IN ยท On-site

$300 - $400/day

Drill Operator Department: Operations Employment Type: Contract Location: United States - Fort ... Operate Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) machines for underground cable installation;

Insight Global

Drill Operator

South Bend, IN ยท On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Highschool - 2+ years underground utility experience - Some experience operating drilling machinery - Have good manual dexterity and machine-controlling skills - Must be able to stoop, kneel, crouch ...

Aquila Corporation

Directional Drill Operator

Columbus, IN ยท On-site

$24 - $35/hr

Directional Drill Operator We are currently seeking experienced Directional Drill Operators to join Aquila's growing team. This is a great opportunity for a motivated professional who takes pride in ...

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Fort Wayne, IN ยท On-site

$300 - $400/day

Operate Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) machines for underground cable installation ... Proven experience operating heavy construction equipment, especially drilling and boring machinery;

PrimeTech Communications

Drill Operator

Indianapolis, IN ยท On-site

Drill Operator - Underground REQUIREMENTS Education Requirement: High School Diploma, GED or equivalent experience Experience Requirement: 1-2 Years previous experience with Boring Drill and related ...

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All JobsDrilling Operator JobsDrilling Operator Jobs in Indiana

Drilling Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$12

$26

$48

How much do drilling operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling operator in Indiana is $26.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $29.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is drilling good money?

Drilling operators typically earn competitive wages that can vary based on experience, location, and the complexity of the projects. They often receive additional compensation for overtime, hazardous conditions, and specialized skills such as operating heavy equipment or working in remote environments. Overall, the profession can offer solid earning potential within the oil, gas, or mineral extraction industries.

How much does a drill rig operator earn?

Drilling rig operators typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the drilling operations. Experienced operators with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages, and overtime or shift work may increase total compensation.

What type of drilling pays the most?

In the drilling industry, directional and offshore drilling operators tend to earn higher wages due to the specialized skills, challenging environments, and longer hours involved. These roles often require advanced certifications and experience, which contribute to higher pay compared to standard rotary drilling positions.

What does a Drilling Operator do?

A Drilling Operator is responsible for operating drilling equipment to bore holes into the earth, typically for oil, gas, or mineral extraction. They monitor drilling parameters, adjust equipment settings, and ensure that operations are carried out safely and efficiently. Drilling Operators also inspect and maintain equipment, troubleshoot issues, and follow regulations to protect the environment and workforce. Their role is critical in the energy and mining industries, requiring technical skills and attention to detail.

What are the typical challenges a Drilling Operator faces on the job, and how can they be managed effectively?

Drilling Operators often encounter challenges such as unpredictable subsurface conditions, equipment malfunctions, and strict safety protocols. Managing these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, close attention to safety procedures, and effective communication with the drilling team and supervisors. Staying up-to-date on equipment maintenance and participating in regular safety meetings are key strategies to ensure operations run smoothly and hazards are minimized. Collaboration with geologists, engineers, and other crew members is also essential for adapting to changing conditions and resolving issues promptly.

How do I become a drill rig operator?

To become a drill rig operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or an apprenticeship to learn equipment operation and safety procedures. Many employers also require certifications such as OSHA safety training and experience with specific drilling tools and machinery.

What is the difference between Drilling Operator vs Well Servicing Operator?

AspectDrilling OperatorWell Servicing Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, technical trainingHigh school diploma, safety certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentOn drilling rigs, outdoor, physically demandingOn well sites, maintenance-focused, outdoor
Industry UsageUsed during drilling operations to operate equipmentUsed during well servicing to maintain and repair wells

Both Drilling Operators and Well Servicing Operators require similar certifications and work in outdoor, physically demanding environments. While Drilling Operators focus on operating drilling equipment during the drilling phase, Well Servicing Operators handle maintenance and repair tasks after the well is drilled. Understanding these roles helps job seekers identify the right career path within the oil and gas industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drilling Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drilling Operator, you need a solid understanding of drilling procedures, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often with additional safety or technical training. Familiarity with drilling rigs, control panels, and industry-specific software such as rig monitoring systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial for maintaining operational efficiency, ensuring safety, and minimizing downtime on drilling sites.
Drilling Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drilling Operator job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,112 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Drilling Foreman

Indiana Underground/ Tree Movers

Edinburgh, IN โ€ข On-site

$24/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Directional Drill Operator


Location: Indiana (Travel within region required)

Company: Indiana Underground Construction (IUC)

Employment Type: Full-Time


Position Overview


We are seeking a high-level Directional Drill Operator to run HDD operations safely, efficiently, and profitably. This role is not entry-level. You will be responsible for planning, drilling, steering, and completing horizontal directional bores for fiber optic and underground utility installations. Production, accuracy, and damage prevention matterโ€”this is a results-driven position.


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Primary Responsibilities

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Operate horizontal directional drilling equipment (Vermeer, Ditch Witch, or equivalent)

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Perform bore path planning, setup, and execution

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Accurately steer drill head to grade and alignment using locating equipment

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Drill under roads, sidewalks, driveways, and existing utilities

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Install conduit and innerduct (3โ„4โ€โ€“4โ€, single or multiple)

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Coordinate with locator, crew, and foreman to maintain productivity

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Read and interpret prints, profiles, and utility locates

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Perform daily equipment inspections and routine maintenance

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Maintain safe work zones and comply with all OSHA and 811 regulations

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Complete daily production reports and redlines when required

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Protect company equipment and jobsite reputationโ€”no shortcuts


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Required Qualifications

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย 3+ years hands-on HDD operating experience (utility/fiber preferred)

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Proven ability to hit footage goals without damaging utilities

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Experience drilling in mixed soil conditions (clay, sand, rock)

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Strong understanding of underground utility layouts and risk management

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Ability to read prints and understand bore profiles

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Valid driverโ€™s license (CDL a plus)

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Ability to work long days, outdoor conditions, and variable job sites


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Preferred (Strong Advantage)

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Fiber optic conduit installation experience

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Road bore and crossing experience

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Experience with Vermeer D20/D24/D36 class drills

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Experience working on subdivision and municipal projects

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Leadership capabilityโ€”ability to run a drill crew efficiently


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Performance Expectations

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Consistent production in the 300โ€“500+ ft/day range, job dependent

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Zero-damage mindset

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Equipment kept clean, maintained, and respected

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Professional interaction with GCs, inspectors, and property owners


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Compensation & Benefits

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Competitive hourly pay based on experience ($24-$30 per hour)

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Overtime available

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Paid travel time (job dependent)

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Advancement opportunities for top performers

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Steady workloadโ€”this is not seasonal or stop-start work


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Who This Job Is NOT For

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Inexperienced operators

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Anyone who rushes, cuts corners, or blames equipment

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Operators who cannot hit production goals safely

ย ย ย ย โ€ขย ย ย ย Anyone uncomfortable with accountability


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How to Apply


Serious operators only. Experience will be verified.

Apply with your work history and equipment experience.