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Full Time Horizontal Directional Drilling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Essel

Horizontal Directional Driller

Manassas, VA · On-site

$24.25 - $30/hr

Lead and operate horizontal directional drilling equipment for installation of pipelines, cables, and conduits. * Interpret blueprints and drilling plans to accurately execute drilling paths.

Essel

Horizontal Directional Driller

Manassas, VA · On-site

$24.25 - $30/hr

Lead and operate horizontal directional drilling equipment for installation of pipelines, cables, and conduits. * Interpret blueprints and drilling plans to accurately execute drilling paths.

Essel

Horizontal Directional Driller

Manassas, VA · On-site

$24.25 - $30/hr

Lead and operate horizontal directional drilling equipment for installation of pipelines, cables, and conduits. * Interpret blueprints and drilling plans to accurately execute drilling paths.

Essel

Horizontal Direction Drilling Locator

Stockton, CA

$25.50 - $31.50/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for accurately locating underground utilities and guiding the horizontal directional drilling operations to ensure precise installation and avoid utility ...

Essel

Horizontal Direction Drilling Locator

Stockton, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $31.50/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for accurately locating underground utilities and guiding the horizontal directional drilling operations to ensure precise installation and avoid utility ...

Essel

Horizontal Direction Drilling Locator

Stockton, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $31.50/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for accurately locating underground utilities and guiding the horizontal directional drilling operations to ensure precise installation and avoid utility ...

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All JobsHorizontal Directional Drilling JobsFull Time Horizontal Directional Drilling Jobs

Full Time Horizontal Directional Drilling information

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$13

$26

$34

How much do full time horizontal directional drilling jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time horizontal 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.

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

To thrive in Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD), you need strong mechanical aptitude, a solid understanding of drilling techniques, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent with relevant experience. Proficiency in operating HDD rigs, locating systems, and following safety protocols—often supported by OSHA certifications—is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and precise completion of underground installation projects while minimizing risks and disruptions.

What is a Full Time Horizontal Directional Drilling job?

A Full Time Horizontal Directional Drilling job involves operating specialized drilling equipment to install underground pipes, conduits, or cables without the need for trenching. Workers in this role use horizontal directional drilling (HDD) techniques to bore beneath the surface, often for utility installations such as water, gas, telecommunications, or electricity. This position typically requires knowledge of machinery, safety procedures, and underground mapping. Full-time HDD jobs may also include maintenance, site preparation, and troubleshooting equipment issues. The role is physically demanding and often requires working outdoors in various weather conditions.

What is the difference between Full Time Horizontal Directional Drilling vs Horizontal Drilling Operator?

AspectFull Time Horizontal Directional DrillingHorizontal Drilling Operator
CertificationsOSHA, HDD-specific trainingOSHA, HDD training often required
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, underground projectsConstruction sites, underground drilling
Industry UsageCommon in utility, telecom, and energy sectorsUsed in similar sectors, often interchangeable
Job FocusPlanning, operating HDD equipment, project managementOperating drilling equipment, site setup

Full Time Horizontal Directional Drilling professionals typically handle comprehensive project tasks, including planning and management, while Horizontal Drilling Operators focus on operating drilling equipment. Both roles require similar certifications and work in comparable environments, but the former often involves broader responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by Horizontal Directional Drilling professionals and how can they be managed?

Professionals in Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) often encounter challenges such as unexpected subsurface conditions, equipment malfunctions, and navigating around existing underground utilities. Successfully managing these issues requires strong problem-solving skills, ongoing communication with team members, and thorough site assessments before drilling begins. Adhering to safety protocols and industry best practices is essential to minimize risks and ensure project success. Teamwork and adaptability are key, as HDD crews frequently need to adjust plans based on real-time findings and maintain close collaboration with project managers and utility locators.
More about Full Time Horizontal Directional Drilling jobs
What cities are hiring for Full Time Horizontal Directional Drilling jobs? Cities with the most Full Time Horizontal Directional Drilling job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Horizontal Directional Drilling jobs? The most popular types of Horizontal Directional Drilling jobs are:
What states have the most Full Time Horizontal Directional Drilling jobs? States with the most job openings for Full Time Horizontal Directional Drilling jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Full Time Horizontal Directional Drilling jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Full Time Horizontal Directional Drilling jobs are:
Full Time Horizontal Directional Drilling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Horizontal Directional Drilling job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 21% Locum Tenens, 51% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 3% Summer. Highlights an 76% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,296 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Horizontal Directional Drilling Operator / Locator

Advanced Directional Drilling Solutions

Daytona Beach, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Health insurance

Job description

Advanced Directional Drilling, Inc. is seeking a reliable, honest, hard-working Horizontal Drilling Operator / Locator for the East Coast Florida area! Must possess good problem- solving skills and be adaptable. Horizontal Drilling Operator / Locators are responsible for running a variety of tasks associated with underground construction. Will operate heavy equipment and tools associated with construction activities. Must maintain and operate equipment per safety and company guidelines.
The primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Operator/Driller Responsibilities:

  • Operate horizontal directional drill rig (HDD)
  • Operate excavation equipment (backhoe, trencher, hydro-vac, etc.)
  • Operate and maintain vehicles and equipment safely at all times
  • Report vehicle and equipment maintenance requirements to construction manager
  • Repair damaged equipment as directed by the project superintendent
  • Document deficiencies in safety practices/equipment to business unit lead
  • Must be able to communicate with others to convey information effectively.
  • Maintain positive public relations (interact with the customer/public in a courteous manner)
Locator Responsibilities:

  • Walk and confirm bore path, spot utilities
  • Perform job site analysis (JSA) including completion of paperwork
  • Ensure there are proper clearances to install the product per standards and company policies
  • Record the depth of the tool head as required
  • Ensure the drill head is in a good position at the exit pit to connect the product
  • Conducts foreman responsibilities, such as overseeing laborers and/or crew member's work and monitors productivity
  • Oversee laborers and/or crew member’s work and monitor time usage is productive
  • Able to follow and complete tasks assigned by the business unit lead
  • Make sure job site is Safe for employee’s and pedestrians
  • Ensure one call tickets are current
  • Able to read specs and prints
Qualifications:

  • Preferred 2+ years of related experience as a horizontal directional drill rig operator and backhoe operator. Ability to develop bore path plan to ensure all utilities located
  • Preferred 1+ year experience with Falcon F5 Locator;
  • Various related equipment operating experience required, such as mini excavator, Vac Truck, etc
  • Inspect / maintain job equipment and tools
  • Have a clean driving record/; has a CDL license;
  • Must be able to travel thru out Florida with some overnight stay as necessary
  • Basic Computer Skills- e-mail, photo editing, maintain bore logs, red-line drawings, PDF Prints, Digi-mark Software, and basic Excel
Job Type: Full-time

Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $20.00 - $35.00 per hour
Benefits:
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Vision insurance
Schedule:
  • 10 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person