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Drilling Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Directional Drill Locator

Indianapolis, IN

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

Some experience operating drilling machinery * Work as a part of a crew. Requirements & Qualifications * Previous underground utility experience * Must be able to follow instructions * Have good ...

Directional Drill operator in central Indiana and surrounding areas in the Midwest. * Be willing to travel during the week when needed. Home most weekends * Be in a local operators union or ...

Directional Drill Locator

Valparaiso, IN

$21.25 - $26.25/hr

Some experience operating drilling machinery * Work as a part of a crew. Requirements & Qualifications * Previous underground utility experience * Must be able to follow instructions * Have good ...

Directional Drill operator in central Indiana and surrounding areas in the Midwest. * Be willing to travel during the week when needed. Home most weekends * Be in a local operators union or ...

Directional Drill Locator

Valparaiso, IN

$21.25 - $26.25/hr

Some experience operating drilling machinery * Work as a part of a crew. Requirements & Qualifications * Previous underground utility experience * Must be able to follow instructions * Have good ...

Directional Drill Locator

Indianapolis, IN

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

Some experience operating drilling machinery * Work as a part of a crew. Requirements & Qualifications * Previous underground utility experience * Must be able to follow instructions * Have good ...

Directional Drill Locator

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

Some experience operating drilling machinery * Work as a part of a crew. Requirements & Qualifications * Previous underground utility experience * Must be able to follow instructions * Have good ...

Directional Drill Locator

South Bend, IN · On-site

$23.75 - $29.50/hr

Some experience operating drilling machinery * Work as a part of a crew. Requirements & Qualifications * Previous underground utility experience * Must be able to follow instructions * Have good ...

Directional Drill Locator

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$24.25 - $30/hr

Some experience operating drilling machinery * Work as a part of a crew. Requirements & Qualifications * Previous underground utility experience * Must be able to follow instructions * Have good ...

Showing results 21-40

Drilling information

See Indiana salary details

$19

$39

$66

How much do drilling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling in Indiana is $39.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.69 and $42.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Where do drillers work?

Drillers can work on either onshore oil rigs or offshore ocean rigs. If you like to travel, there are oil rigs in many places around the world like China, Saudi Arabia, and Nigeria. Land rigs are often in rural or semi-remote areas and usually require month-long shifts working 12-hour days, seven days per week, but this depends on the company that employees you. Drillers can also work on other types of rigs, such as those drilling a water well, collecting rock samples for research projects, or conducting oil or gas exploration. Collecting soil samples for environmental companies is an essential job for cleaning up contamination or developing land.

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

To thrive as a Drilling Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering (often petroleum, mechanical, or chemical), strong analytical abilities, and relevant industry experience. Proficiency in drilling software (like Landmark or WellView), knowledge of drilling equipment, and often certifications such as IWCF or Well Control are essential. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help navigate complex drilling operations and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective drilling processes, which are critical for successful energy exploration and production.

What are some common challenges faced by drilling professionals when working on remote sites, and how can these be managed?

Drilling professionals often encounter challenges such as harsh weather conditions, limited access to resources, and extended periods away from home when working on remote sites. Effective preparation is key—this includes thorough logistical planning, clear communication with support teams, and adhering to safety protocols. Building strong teamwork on-site and staying adaptable to changing conditions can also help mitigate these challenges and ensure successful drilling operations.

What is the difference between Drilling vs Well Servicing?

AspectDrillingWell Servicing
CredentialsDrilling certifications, CDL, technical trainingWell servicing certifications, technical skills
Work EnvironmentOn-site at drilling rigs, outdoor, remote locationsOn-site at well sites, maintenance facilities
Employer & Industry UsageOil & gas exploration companies, drilling contractorsOil & gas operators, well service companies

Drilling and well servicing are both essential in the oil and gas industry. Drilling involves creating new wells using specialized equipment, while well servicing focuses on maintaining, repairing, and optimizing existing wells. Although they share similar certifications and work environments, their roles differ in scope and purpose within the industry.

Is drilling a good career?

Drilling is a skilled trade that offers employment opportunities in industries such as oil and gas, construction, and mining. It often requires technical training, safety certifications, and the ability to work in challenging environments, with job stability depending on industry demand and economic factors.

What does a drilling get paid?

Drilling workers, such as drill operators and rig workers, typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specific role. Skilled workers with certifications and experience in the oil and gas industry can earn higher wages, often supplemented by overtime and hazard pay.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drilling jobs in Indiana?

The most popular types of Drilling jobs in Indiana are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Drilling jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Drilling job openings:

Infographic showing various Drilling job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,071 per year, or $39.5 per hour.

JDH - Directional Drill Operator

NORTHERN LIGHTS & JDH CONTRACTING

Plainfield, IN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

JOB TITLE: Directional Drill Operator – Fiber Division
STATUS: Full-Time Employee
RELEVANT WORK EXPERIENCE: Experience required. Minimum 1 year of prior experience or training as a drill operator preferred.


JOB SUMMARY: The Directional Drill Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of horizontal directional drilling equipment used to install underground utilities, including fiber optic conduit systems. Operators perform drilling tasks in accordance with project plans and directions from the Foreman, ensuring accuracy, safety, and productivity in varying site conditions.


TYPICAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Operate horizontal directional drills and related equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Perform daily calibration of locators and drill heads as directed.
  • Identify and expose existing utilities using potholing, windowing, or other safe digging practices.
  • Connect and stub-up conduit and wire as directed in project plans.
  • Excavate pits, trenches, and potholes when required.
  • Restore and/or landscape disturbed areas of the job site.
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work area.
  • Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and emergency protocols.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES:

  • Safety-focused with strong awareness of underground utility hazards.
  • Reliable and consistent attendance and punctuality.
  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, rain, snow, and wind.
  • Willingness to travel and participate in on-call rotations as needed.
  • Self-motivated and adaptable to changing job site conditions.
  • Team-oriented with strong work ethic and integrity.
     

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE / SKILLS:

  • Proficiency in operating directional drilling equipment (Vermeer or Ditch Witch experience preferred).
  • Familiarity with safe drilling practices, strike alerts, and emergency procedures.
  • Knowledge of drilling fluids and proper mixing procedures for ground conditions.
  • Understanding of rod care, rotation, and use of support equipment (vacuum units, reel trailers, digging equipment).
  • CDL Class A driver’s license preferred.