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Entry Level Directional Drilling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary This entry level position performs geosteering operations on all assigned wells, under ... Monitors real-time data, provides real-time interpretation and directional drilling guidance to ...

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator ... Provides training and support to entry level laborers ensuring compliance to ADB's operating and ...

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator ... Provides training and support to entry level laborers ensuring compliance to ADB's operating and ...

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator ... Provides training and support to entry level laborers ensuring compliance to ADB's operating and ...

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator ... Provides training and support to entry level laborers ensuring compliance to ADB's operating and ...

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator ... Provides training and support to entry level laborers ensuring compliance to ADB's operating and ...

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator ... Provides training and support to entry level laborers ensuring compliance to ADB's operating and ...

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator ... Provides training and support to entry level laborers ensuring compliance to ADB's operating and ...

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator ... Provides training and support to entry level laborers ensuring compliance to ADB's operating and ...

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator ... Provides training and support to entry level laborers ensuring compliance to ADB's operating and ...

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator ... Provides training and support to entry level laborers ensuring compliance to ADB's operating and ...

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator ... Provides training and support to entry level laborers ensuring compliance to ADB's operating and ...

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Entry Level Directional Drilling information

See salary details

$13

$26

$34

How much do entry level directional drilling jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level directional drilling in the United States is $26.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a Directional Driller get paid?

A Directional Driller's average salary typically ranges from $60,000 to $90,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start around $50,000, with experienced professionals earning higher wages, especially in regions with high demand for skilled drilling operators.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Directional Drilling professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Directional Drilling professional, you need a basic understanding of drilling operations, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with drilling rigs, measurement-while-drilling (MWD) tools, and safety protocols is often required, with on-the-job training or safety certifications like H2S awareness being advantageous. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and communication skills help individuals excel in demanding field environments. These abilities are crucial for maintaining safety, operational efficiency, and reliable team performance in challenging drilling projects.

How to get into directional drilling?

To start a career in directional drilling, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and should gain experience in construction or drilling environments. Training programs or apprenticeships are common, and obtaining certifications such as OSHA safety training can improve job prospects. Physical fitness and comfort working outdoors are also important for success in this field.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level directional drilling professionals, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level directional drilling professionals often encounter challenges such as adapting to a fast-paced work environment, understanding complex drilling equipment, and working long shifts in remote locations. Building strong communication skills is crucial, as the role requires close coordination with engineers, geologists, and drilling supervisors. Newcomers can overcome these challenges by taking initiative to learn from experienced team members, staying safety-conscious, and being proactive in asking questions to deepen their technical knowledge. Embracing a teamwork mentality and being open to feedback also help in building confidence and growing within the field.

What is an entry level directional drilling job?

An entry level directional drilling job involves assisting experienced drillers in operating specialized equipment to drill wells at precise angles and directions, rather than straight down. Entry level workers often help set up the drilling rig, monitor drilling parameters, collect data, and maintain safety and equipment standards on-site. They gain hands-on experience with drilling technology and procedures, and may also help with reporting and troubleshooting. This role is a starting point for a career in the oil and gas drilling industry, with opportunities for advancement as skills and experience grow.

What is the difference between Entry Level Directional Drilling vs Entry Level Oilfield Roustabout?

AspectEntry Level Directional DrillingEntry Level Oilfield Roustabout
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certificationsHigh school diploma, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentOn-site at drilling rigs, outdoorOn-site at oilfields, outdoor
Industry UsageOil & gas exploration, drilling companiesOil & gas extraction, service companies
Job FocusOperating drilling equipment, guiding drill bitsAssisting with rig maintenance, general labor

Both roles require safety certifications and work in outdoor oilfield environments. Entry Level Directional Drilling focuses on operating and guiding drilling equipment, while Entry Level Oilfield Roustabout involves general labor and rig support tasks. Understanding these differences helps job seekers choose the right entry point in the oil and gas industry.

What is the easiest oilfield job to get?

Entry-level positions such as roustabouts or laborers in the oilfield are generally the easiest to obtain, as they often require minimal experience and training. These roles typically involve manual work and may require safety certifications like OSHA training, making them accessible for newcomers to the industry.

Is directional drilling a good career?

Directional drilling is a viable career in the oil and gas industry, requiring technical skills, physical stamina, and safety awareness. It offers opportunities for advancement and often involves working in challenging environments with specialized equipment. Certification and experience can improve job prospects and earning potential.
More about Entry Level Directional Drilling jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Directional Drilling jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Directional Drilling job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Directional Drilling jobs? The most popular types of Directional Drilling jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Directional Drilling jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Directional Drilling jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Directional Drilling job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 95% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,296 per year, or $26.1 per hour.
Travel Directional Drill Operator

Travel Directional Drill Operator

ADB

Salt Lake City, UT

$24/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


ADB Companies rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

To be a team member at ADB Companies, or as we call it, part of the A-Team, you must be ALL IN to support the company’s mission, vision, and values.

OUR MISSION: We are a customer-centric partner providing innovative solutions. The safety, well-being, and career growth of our team members are the benchmarks of our success.

POSITION TITLE: Laborer II

CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt

POSITION OVERVIEW:

ADB is a Nationwide full turnkey provider of technology infrastructure solutions including Wireline, Wireless, Technology, P&I and Engineering. Our customer centric approach has ensured long term relationships with commercial clients, service providers, local, state, and federal government organizations. We recognize our team
members as our greatest asset ensuring that their safety, well-being, and career growth are always our number one priority. Our ALL IN culture includes a focus on Safety, Wellness, Learning, Diversity and Inclusion, and giving back to our Communities.

ADB is seeking a Laborer II to provide outside plant (OSP) installation support on various sized and scope utility construction project sites. The Laborer II has proven experience working within a utility construction environment and possesses the technical knowledge, skills and experience to safely operate equipment that could include (Mini, Drill, Hydro and/or Bucket Truck) to complete various sized utility construction placement projects. The ideal candidate will be customer and quality centric, have a complete buy-in to safety, with a strong work ethic, and ALL IN attitude to achieve results.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Performs general manual strenuous laborer within all weather conditions that includes but is not limited to hand digging, installing utilities, moving material, inspecting ground conditions, ensuring traffic control, etc.
  • Supports crew with jobsite setup and closeout tasks that could include; loading and unloading trucks, taking photos, setting up cones and traffic signs, prepping equipment, etc.
  • Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator, hydro truck, bucket truck) with limited guidance from an experienced operator
  • Consistently meets production expectations set by experienced Foreman, and/or members of management
  • Takes initiative and is actively engaged in training alongside experience Operators and Foreman learning installations and equipment operations, etc. General understanding and comfortability of safety risks while working in a safety sensitive position
  • Proficient ability to read prints and construction drawings
  • Under training and supervision, has basic level ability to locate utilities
  • Entry level ability of the 811 locate process and how to problem solve for existing utilities and make decisions based on findings in adherence to ADB’s policies and procedures
  • Entry level knowledge of daily redline and production reports
  • Safety is the expectation; complete buy-in and adherence to the safety culture and expectations by leading by example and actively participating in pre-task, good catch and safety assessment standards within the organization
  • Provides training and support to entry level laborers ensuring compliance to ADB’s operating and safety procedures
  • Performs other position duties when requested

SUCCESS FACTORS:

  • Travel Ability Nationwide
  • A strong belief in ZERO- Being Safe 100% of the time is the expectation
  • Alignment with company mission, vision, and values
  • A high level of customer centricity
  • Strong work ethic with an ALL-IN attitude
  • Strong attendance record
  • Strong team player with the ability to adapt to diverse team members
  • Ability to perform in a fast paced/high volume environment
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • A high level of time management, accountability, and prioritization skills
  • Ability to be organized, problem solve, and be solution oriented
  • Self-motivated, goal- oriented, and driven to accomplish department goals

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

  • Must be able to work in a variety of physical positions like sitting, squatting, standing, walking, climbing, etc.
  • May be exposed to uncomfortable or distracting sounds or noise levels while onsite
  • This is a safety sensitive position; when working on site, will be required to wear common protective of safety equipment, such as safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, hard hats, and steel toed boots

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION:

  • 1+ year of utility construction experience required
  • 6+ months of equipment operating experience of one of the following (Drill, Hydro, Mini, Bucket Truck) required
  • Valid driver’s license with the ability to drive a company vehicle strongly preferred
  • Class A CDL License strongly preferred
  • Competent Person and OSHA 10 certifications strongly preferred (ability to obtain within 6 months of hire required)
  • High School diploma or equivalent required

The starting pay for this position is $24.00 per hour and may vary based on the candidate's skills, experience, and qualifications.

ADB Companies, LLC is an equal opportunity employer. All candidates agree to complete a selection assessment and pre-employment drug screen.


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