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Freelance Directional Drill Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sellenriek Energy

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Directional Drill Operator

Kingdom City, MO · On-site

Directional Drill Operator Location : Kingdom City, MO Schedule : Monday-Friday, 10-hour days Pay : Based on experience Travel : Local work with occasional overnight travel based on job location and ...

Sellenriek Energy

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Directional Drill Operator

Kingdom City, MO · On-site

Directional Drill Operator Location : Kingdom City, MO Schedule : Monday-Friday, 10-hour days Pay : Based on experience Travel : Local work with occasional overnight travel based on job location and ...

Congruex

Directional Drill Operator

Columbus, OH · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Job Summary As the Directional Drill Operator, you will ultimately be responsible for safely operating directional drilling equipment, locating underground utilities, and supporting construction ...

Total Highspeed

Directional Drill Operator

Nixa, MO · On-site

Directional Drill Operator Total Highspeed is looking for a full-time Directional Drill Operator who can work as a part of a team environment while spearheading the fiber-construction process by ...

Quanta Services

Directional Drill Operator

Sumner, WA · On-site

$34.60 - $59.75/hr

Directional Drill Operator If you enjoy working with a great group of professionals, are accurate, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and enjoy using your analytic and organizational skills, then we ...

LSCG

Directional Drill Operator

El Paso, TX · On-site

$26 - $34/hr

Directional Drill Operator At LSCG, we take a people-first approach to construction. We know communications infrastructure construction isn't just about fiber and towers. It's about collaboration and ...

LSCG, LLC

Directional Drill Operator

Kent, WA · On-site

$38 - $45/hr

Description Directional Drill Operator At Full Circle Fiber, we take a people-first approach to construction. We know communications infrastructure construction isn't just about fiber and towers. It ...

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Freelance Directional Drill Operator information

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How much do freelance directional drill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance directional 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 are some common challenges faced by freelance directional drill operators on new job sites?

Freelance directional drill operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to unfamiliar ground conditions, integrating with new teams, and understanding site-specific safety protocols. Each job site may use different equipment models or have unique logistical constraints, requiring quick learning and flexibility. Building effective communication with site supervisors and other crew members is crucial to ensure precise drilling and project success. Additionally, freelancers must efficiently manage their own schedules, certifications, and equipment maintenance to remain competitive in the industry.

What is the difference between Freelance Directional Drill Operator vs Underground Utility Locator?

AspectFreelance Directional Drill OperatorUnderground Utility Locator
CredentialsOSHA certification, CDL often preferredOSHA certification, industry-specific training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, outdoor, underground drillingFieldwork, locating underground utilities
Employer & IndustryConstruction, utility installation, drilling companiesUtility companies, excavation firms

Both roles require safety certifications and field experience. The Freelance Directional Drill Operator focuses on operating drilling equipment for underground installation projects, while the Underground Utility Locator specializes in detecting and marking underground utilities to prevent damage. While their skills overlap in safety and fieldwork, their primary tasks and tools differ significantly.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Directional Drill Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, understanding of drilling techniques, and relevant certifications such as a CDL or safety training. Expertise with horizontal directional drilling (HDD) machines, utility locating tools, and drilling fluid systems is typically required. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and attention to detail are important soft skills for adapting to diverse worksites and collaborating with clients and crews. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, accurate, and efficient underground installation projects across varying environments.

What is a freelance directional drill operator?

A Freelance Directional Drill Operator is a skilled professional who operates drilling equipment to install underground pipes, cables, or conduits along a predetermined path without digging trenches. They work independently or on a contract basis, often moving between different job sites and clients. Their role requires expertise in reading blueprints, handling advanced drilling machinery, and ensuring safety and accuracy during drilling operations. Freelance operators must also manage their own schedules, equipment, and client communications.
More about Freelance Directional Drill Operator jobs
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What are the most commonly searched types of Directional Drill Operator jobs? The most popular types of Directional Drill Operator jobs are:
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Freelance Directional Drill Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Directional Drill Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,917 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Directional Drill Operator

Sellenriek Energy

Kingdom City, MO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

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Job description

Directional Drill Operator

Location: Kingdom City, MO
Schedule: Monday-Friday, 10-hour days
Pay: Based on experience
Travel: Local work with occasional overnight travel based on job location and business need
Benefits: 90% employer-paid health insurance, 401(k), PTO, apparel allowance

Sellenriek Construction is hiring an experienced Directional Drill Operator for underground utility construction work in the Jonesburg, MO area.

What You’ll Do:

  • Operate horizontal directional drill rigs for underground utility/fiber installation
  • Work closely with the locator to maintain proper depth, pitch, and bore path
  • Follow prints, bore plans, utility markings, and jobsite direction
  • Assist with drill setup, drilling, reaming, pullback, potholing, and restoration
  • Perform daily equipment checks, greasing, basic maintenance, and inspections
  • Work safely around existing utilities and follow damage prevention practices
  • Assist the crew with handholes, conduit, materials, and general field work as needed
  • Load, unload, haul, or move equipment and materials when needed

Requirements:

  • Valid Class A CDL Preferred
  • Directional drilling/HDD operating experience required
  • Experience with Vermeer, Ditch Witch, or similar drill rigs preferred
  • Underground utility, fiber, conduit, or telecom construction experience preferred
  • Must understand safe digging practices and working around marked utilities
  • Ability to read or follow prints, bore plans, and utility markings
  • Able to work outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Able to travel overnight when required
  • Must be able to pass a background check and drug screening

Company Description

Sellenriek Energy is an electrical infrastructure and underground construction company built on decades of utility construction experience through Sellenriek Construction. Launched in 2021, Sellenriek Energy supports electrical distribution, storm restoration, grid hardening, and underground utility solutions for utilities, municipalities, cooperatives, and communities.

The company focuses on building stronger, smarter, and more reliable energy infrastructure through safe, efficient, field-first work. Sellenriek Energy values innovation, integrity, collaboration, and safety, with a strong commitment to training, damage prevention, OSHA standards, and protecting crews, clients, and communities.

Sellenriek Energy offers hands-on career opportunities for operators, laborers, and people looking to grow in the energy and utility construction industry, with competitive pay, strong benefits, long-term growth opportunities, and a team-focused culture.