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Hdd Locator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Dycom Industries, Inc.

HDD Traveling Locator I

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$25.25 - $31.25/hr

Hourly Discover a more connected career At TelCom Construction, LLC, the HDD Locator is responsible for guiding the drill head during horizontal directional drilling operations. This role ensures ...

New

Push Inc

HDD Operator/Locator - CDL Preferred

Canton, MN · On-site

$23 - $28.25/hr

The CDL Directional Drill Operator/Locator (HDD) operates equipment necessary to install fiber-optic cable, copper cable, coaxial cable, single and three phase power cable and possibly sewer or water ...

Push Inc

HDD Operator/Locator - CDL Preferred

Sauk Centre, MN · On-site

$24.50 - $30.50/hr

The CDL Directional Drill Operator/Locator (HDD) operates equipment necessary to install fiber-optic cable, copper cable, coaxial cable, single and three phase power cable and possibly sewer or water ...

Push Inc

HDD Operator/Locator - CDL Preferred

Harmony, MN · On-site

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

The CDL Directional Drill Operator/Locator (HDD) operates equipment necessary to install fiber-optic cable, copper cable, coaxial cable, single and three phase power cable and possibly sewer or water ...

Push Inc

HDD Operator/Locator - CDL Preferred

Mcgregor, MN · On-site

$23 - $28.50/hr

The CDL Directional Drill Operator/Locator (HDD) operates equipment necessary to install fiber-optic cable, copper cable, coaxial cable, single and three phase power cable and possibly sewer or water ...

MP Nexlevel

DB OPERATOR/DRILL LOCATOR

Maple Lake, MN

$24 - $30/hr

Position Title: Directional Bore Operator / Locator Reports To : Project Manager Summary of ... Perform semi-skilled activities related to HDD locating must be familiar with industry standards ...

MP NEXLEVEL LLC

DB OPERATOR/DRILL LOCATOR

Maple Lake, MN · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

Position Title: Directional Bore Operator / Locator Reports To : Project Manager Summary of ... Perform semi-skilled activities related to HDD locating must be familiar with industry standards ...

MP

DB OPERATOR/DRILL LOCATOR

Maple Lake, MN · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

Position Title: Directional Bore Operator / Locator Reports To : Project Manager Summary of ... Perform semi-skilled activities related to HDD locating must be familiar with industry standards ...

Turner Mining Group

Directional Drilling Locator

Harmony, MN · On-site

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

Previous HDD drill-locating experience. * Experience with DCI/DigiTrak or Underground Magnetics locating equipment. * Valid Class A CDL with air-brake experience. * Experience towing heavy equipment ...

Turner Mining Group

Directional Drilling Locator

Harmony, MN

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

Previous HDD drill-locating experience. * Experience with DCI/DigiTrak or Underground Magnetics locating equipment. * Valid Class A CDL with air-brake experience. * Experience towing heavy equipment ...

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Hdd Locator information

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How much do hdd locator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for hdd locator in Minnesota is $15.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $16.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an HDD locator?

An HDD Locator, or Horizontal Directional Drilling Locator, is a professional responsible for tracking and guiding the drilling head during horizontal directional drilling operations. Their main job is to use specialized electronic equipment to accurately locate the drill head underground, ensuring that it follows the planned path and avoids obstacles like utilities or rocks. HDD Locators play a critical role in the installation of underground pipelines, cables, and conduits with minimal surface disruption. They often work closely with drill operators and must interpret data from the locator device to provide real-time guidance. Strong communication, problem-solving skills, and technical knowledge of the equipment are essential for this role.

What are the typical daily interactions and collaborations for an HDD locator on a job site?

As an HDD Locator, you’ll work closely with the drill operator, site supervisors, and utility inspectors to ensure safe and precise drilling. Your day typically involves frequent communication with the drill crew to relay real-time information about underground utilities and bore path adjustments. You may also coordinate with local utility representatives and project managers to confirm utility locations and resolve any site challenges. Effective teamwork and clear communication are crucial, as your input directly impacts the accuracy and safety of horizontal directional drilling operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an HDD locator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an HDD Locator, you need a solid understanding of horizontal directional drilling processes, utility mapping, and equipment operation, often gained through experience or specialized training. Familiarity with locating equipment (such as DCI or Subsite locators), utility detection systems, and safety certifications like OSHA are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for working safely and accurately with crews. These abilities are crucial to prevent utility strikes, ensure project efficiency, and maintain a safe work environment.

What is the difference between Hdd Locator vs Data Center Technician?

AspectHdd LocatorData Center Technician
Required CredentialsBasic technical knowledge, certifications like CompTIA A+Technical certifications, such as CompTIA Server+ or Cisco CCNA
Work EnvironmentData centers, server rooms, hardware repair sitesData centers, server rooms, network operation centers
Employer & Industry UsageIT hardware companies, data centers, repair servicesTelecommunications, IT service providers, large enterprises

Hdd Locators primarily focus on identifying and locating hard drives within hardware setups, often requiring basic technical skills. Data Center Technicians have broader responsibilities, including hardware installation, troubleshooting, and network support. While both roles work in data centers, Hdd Locators specialize in hard drive identification, whereas Data Center Technicians handle comprehensive hardware and network tasks.

How much does a HDD locator make?

HDD locators typically earn between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment they work with. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced technicians with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Certifications and familiarity with diagnostic tools can also influence salary levels.

What are popular job titles related to Hdd Locator jobs in Minnesota?

For Hdd Locator jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Hdd Locator jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Hdd Locator jobs in Minnesota are:

Hdd Locator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hdd Locator job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,893 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

HDD Traveling Locator I

Maple Grove, MN • On-site

Dycom Industries, Inc.
Construction • 10K+ employees

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

People enjoy working here

Uninterrupted breaks

Learn more about Dycom Industries, Inc.external

$25.25 - $31.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Maple Grove, MN
Workplace Type: Field
Employment Type: Hourly
Discover a more connected career
At TelCom Construction, LLC, the HDD Locator is responsible for guiding the drill head during horizontal directional drilling operations. This role ensures accurate steering, depth control, and bore path adherence using advanced locating systems. The Locator works closely with the Foreman and Drill Operator to execute complex bores involving mud motors, grid bores, gyro systems, and large-diameter tooling. This position is critical for maintaining bore accuracy, preventing strikes, and ensuring safe, efficient drilling across the Midwest Region.
Connecting you to great benefits
  • Weekly Paychecks
  • Paid Time Off, Parental Leave, and Holidays
  • Insurance (including medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, disability, life insurance)
  • 401(k) w/ Company Match
  • Stock Purchase Plan
  • Education Reimbursement
  • Legal Insurance
  • Discounts on gym memberships, pet insurance, and much more!

What you'll do
Key Responsibilities:
  • Perform real-time locating using walkover systems, receivers, and advanced tracking tools
  • Guide drill head by providing accurate depth, pitch, and steering instructions to the operator
  • Interpret bore plans and ensure the drill follows the designed path
  • Coordinate with Foreman on tooling changes, steering adjustments, and ground conditions
  • Monitor downhole conditions including soil type, steering response, and fluid returns
  • Support advanced tooling such as mud motors, grid bores, and gyro systems
  • Perform utility avoidance by identifying hazards and adjusting bore path as needed
  • Document bore path including depths, pitches, and alignment for as-built records
  • Assist with site setup including potholing, marking utilities, and staging equipment
  • Maintain safety compliance including PPE, hazard awareness, and communication protocols
  • Read utility maps to find underground utilities correctly
  • Document all locates
  • Respond promptly and courteously to excavation notices
  • Communicate well with excavators, utility representatives, and company staff
  • Dig lightly with a shovel when necessary
  • Work overtime, travel, and perform on-call/afterhours responsibilities as needed
  • Perform work in all weather conditions

What you'll need
Required Skills & Qualifications:
  • Strong experience with HDD locating systems (DigiTrak, Subsite, or equivalent)
  • Ability to read bore plans, utility maps, and job specifications
  • Strong communication skills with drill operators and foremen
  • Ability to work safely around heavy machinery and active drill sites
  • Basic mechanical aptitude for understanding downhole tooling behavior
  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Ability to lift 50-75 lbs as needed
  • Valid driver's license; CDL preferred but not required

Preferred Experience (Large-Drill Focus):
  • Experience locating large-diameter bores (12-24+ inches)
  • Experience supporting mud motor and rock drilling operations
  • Experience with grid bores and gyro steering systems
  • Experience with long shots (800-3,000 ft)
  • Experience documenting as-built bore paths for municipalities
  • Prior HDD, utility, or construction experience
  • OSHA, First Aid, CPR certifications (company can provide)
  • To be 18 years of age or older
  • Authorization to work in the United States for this company
  • High School Diploma, GED equivalent, or relevant work experience
  • Valid State driver's license (cannot be Provisional), including an acceptable driving record

Physical abilities & exposures
  • Routinely: work alone in remote locations with arms above shoulder level, operate vehicle, squeeze, fine hand motion, bend, stoop, stand, walk, lift up to 55 pounds, use keyboard and mouse
  • Occasionally: use portable ladder, work in confined spaces and climb stairs
  • Walking long distances while carrying locating equipment
  • Exposure to mud, water, noise, vibration, and outdoor conditions
  • Ability to safely work around heavy machinery and moving equipment

Why grow your career with us
Your career here is more than just a job - it's your pathway to opportunity. Our hands-on training, supportive environment, and responsive leadership connect you to work with purpose. Our commitment to you extends beyond professional development to a safety-first culture that ensures you can do what you do best, with peace of mind.
Building stronger solutions together
Our company is an equal-opportunity employer - we are committed to providing a work environment where everyone can thrive, grow, and feel connected.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
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