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Hdd Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Quanta Services

HDD Operator - Telecom - Traveling

Ukiah, CA · On-site

$23.50 - $30/hr

A Successful Directional Drill Locator/ Operator is specially trained and has expertise in locating for horizontal/directional drill rigs and product support equipment. This individual will be ...

Dycom Industries, Inc.

Drill Locator

Ripon, CA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

You will be responsible for tracking the drill head during horizontal directional drilling (HDD ... Provide constant, clear communication to the Drill Operator via hand signals or two-way radio to ...

MP Nexlevel

DB OPERATOR/DRILL LOCATOR

Sacramento, CA

$25 - $40/hr

Perform semi-skilled activities related to HDD locating must be familiar with industry standards, policies, guidelines, and procedures. DB Operator Duties and Responsibilities: * Operates Horizontal ...

MP

DB OPERATOR/DRILL LOCATOR

Merced, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Perform semi-skilled activities related to HDD locating must be familiar with industry standards, policies, guidelines, and procedures. DB Operator Duties and Responsibilities: * Operates Horizontal ...

MP Nexlevel

DB OPERATOR/DRILL LOCATOR

Merced, CA

$25 - $40/hr

Perform semi-skilled activities related to HDD locating must be familiar with industry standards, policies, guidelines, and procedures. DB Operator Duties and Responsibilities: * Operates Horizontal ...

MP NEXLEVEL LLC

DB OPERATOR/DRILL LOCATOR

Merced, CA

$25 - $40/hr

Perform semi-skilled activities related to HDD locating must be familiar with industry standards, policies, guidelines, and procedures. DB Operator Duties and Responsibilities: * Operates Horizontal ...

MP

DB OPERATOR/DRILL LOCATOR

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Perform semi-skilled activities related to HDD locating must be familiar with industry standards, policies, guidelines, and procedures. DB Operator Duties and Responsibilities: * Operates Horizontal ...

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All JobsHdd Operator JobsHdd Operator Jobs in California

Hdd Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do hdd operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for hdd operator in California is $17.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a HDD job?

A HDD operator is responsible for operating and maintaining horizontal directional drilling equipment used in underground construction projects. The role requires knowledge of drilling techniques, safety procedures, and often involves working outdoors in various weather conditions. Certification and physical stamina are typically important for this job.

What are some common challenges faced by HDD Operators on job sites and how can they be addressed?

HDD Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating underground obstacles, maintaining equipment, and ensuring the accuracy of bore paths. Weather conditions and soil variability can also impact operations and require quick adaptation. Effective communication with the drilling crew and utility locators is essential to avoid damaging existing infrastructure. Building experience with different ground conditions and staying updated on safety protocols can help HDD Operators overcome these challenges and ensure successful project completion.

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

To thrive as an HDD Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, experience with horizontal directional drilling (HDD) equipment, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with drilling rigs, locating systems like DigiTrak or Subsite, and relevant safety certifications such as OSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, precise, and efficient installation of underground utilities in various soil conditions, minimizing risks and maximizing productivity.

How much do HDD operators make?

HDD (Horizontal Directional Drilling) operators typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with specialized skills can earn higher wages, often working full-time shifts with potential overtime.

What is an HDD operator?

An HDD operator is a construction worker who operates horizontal directional drilling (HDD) equipment to install underground utilities such as pipes and cables. They need technical skills, knowledge of drilling tools, and often hold safety certifications to work in this environment. The role involves precise control of drilling machinery and adherence to project plans and safety protocols.

Do directional drillers make good money?

Directional drillers, who operate specialized equipment for underground drilling projects, typically earn competitive wages that vary by experience, location, and industry demand. They often receive benefits and may need certifications or training in operating drilling tools. Overall, the job can be financially rewarding for skilled workers in the construction and utility sectors.

What are HDD Operators?

HDD Operators, or Horizontal Directional Drilling Operators, are professionals who operate and control drilling equipment used to install underground pipes, conduits, or cables with minimal surface disruption. They read plans, set up drilling rigs, and monitor the drilling process to ensure accuracy and safety. HDD Operators are commonly employed in construction, telecommunications, and utility industries, where trenchless installation methods are required. Their work helps minimize damage to landscapes, roads, and existing infrastructure.

What is the difference between Hdd Operator vs Drilling Operator?

AspectHdd OperatorDrilling Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, sometimes certifications in HDD operationsHigh school diploma, certifications in drilling operations, safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, utility projects, underground utility installationsOil & gas fields, mining sites, construction drilling projects
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, utility companies, civil engineeringOil & gas, mining, heavy industry
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Hdd Operators and Drilling Operators both work in heavy industry environments requiring safety certifications and technical skills. While Hdd Operators focus on horizontal directional drilling for utility installation, Drilling Operators typically work in oil, gas, or mining sectors with vertical or directional drilling. Both roles demand specialized training, but their work environments and industry applications differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Hdd Operator jobs in California? For Hdd Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Hdd Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Hdd Operator jobs in California are:
Hdd Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hdd Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 44% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 46% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 94% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,331 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Directional Drill Operator

Omni Underground, inc.

Fowler, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Description
Omni Underground is seeking an experienced Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) Operator to join our growing underground utility construction team. We specialize in turnkey underground utility installations throughout California's Central Valley, including directional drilling, potholing, trenching, vault setting, and restoration.
As an HDD Operator, you'll be responsible for operating Ditch Witch JT10, JT25, and JT28 directional drills while working alongside locators and field crews to safely and efficiently install underground utilities. We're looking for operators who take pride in quality workmanship, work safely, communicate effectively, and want to grow with a company that promotes from within.
Responsibilities
• Safely operate Ditch Witch JT10, JT25, and JT28 horizontal directional drilling equipment.
• Complete precision bores for fiber optic, telecommunications, power, gas, and joint trench utility installations.
• Read and interpret utility plans, bore profiles, Dig Alert markings, and project specifications.
• Work closely with locators, foremen, laborers, and project management to complete projects safely and efficiently.
• Perform equipment inspections, preventative maintenance, and maintain accurate daily equipment logs.
• Monitor drilling conditions and make adjustments to maintain bore accuracy and productivity.
• Assist with jobsite setup, potholing, conduit installation, pullbacks, and restoration activities as needed.
Qualifications
$41

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