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Hdd Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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

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 ...

Essel

Horizontal Direction Drilling Locator

Stockton, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $31.50/hr

Horizontal Direction Drilling (HDD) Locator Job Summary: Essel is looking for a detail-oriented and ... Collaborate closely with drill operators and project managers to provide real-time utility location ...

Essel

Horizontal Direction Drilling Locator

Stockton, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $31.50/hr

Horizontal Direction Drilling (HDD) Locator Job Summary: Essel is looking for a detail-oriented and ... Collaborate closely with drill operators and project managers to provide real-time utility location ...

Essel

Horizontal Direction Drilling Locator

Stockton, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $31.50/hr

Horizontal Direction Drilling (HDD) Locator Job Summary: Essel is looking for a detail-oriented and ... Collaborate closely with drill operators and project managers to provide real-time utility location ...

CivicMinds, Inc.

Sr SSD Application Engineer

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$132K - $175K/yr

Compute and/or Storage System hardware and/or software using both Windows and Linux based operating systems in the data center/enterprise. * HDD/SSD systems/protocols and/or SAS/SATA/PCIe (NVMe)

Super Micro Computer

Product Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$70K - $138K/yr

... SSD/HDD/NVMe). * Knowledge of TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, and using diagnostic tools to test memory, CPU ... Minimum of 5 years of system. * Familiar with Linux operating systems and Windows server.

Supermicro

Product Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$70K - $138K/yr

... SSD/HDD/NVMe). * Knowledge of TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, and using diagnostic tools to test memory, CPU ... Minimum of 5 years of system. * Familiar with Linux operating systems and Windows server.

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Showing results 21-40

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 Aug 23, 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 an HDD operator?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an HDD operator?

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.

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 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.

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. Skilled operators with specialized tools and safety training tend to earn higher wages, especially in industries like construction and utilities that require precise drilling skills.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,331 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

DB OPERATOR/DRILL LOCATOR

MP

Merced, CA • On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Summary of Position:
The role of a Horizontal/Directional Drill Operator and Locator includes operating horizontal/directional drill rigs, locating equipment and product support equipment. 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 Directional Drill for installation of underground telecommunications cable conduit, including fiber optic cable
  • Performs all duties according to prescribed safety procedures and uses appropriate safety equipment
  • Setup and cleanup of work site including traffic and pedestrian control
  • Reads utility locates and ensures all applicable permits and locates are complete and onsite
  • Inspects the work that is in progress to ensure that the workmanship conforms to specifications
  • Level earth to final grade specifications
  • Performs proper maintenance by greasing, oiling, and making minor repairs on equipment
  • Leads teams in the field effectively and efficiently as needed and directed by supervisor

Locator Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Confirm bore path with install foreman and drill operator (including walking the bore path)
  • Perform job site analysis (JSA) including completion of paperwork
  • Ensure there are proper clearances to install the product per standards
  • Record the depth of the tool head as required

Essential Education and Qualifications:
  • Good verbal communication skills
  • Valid Driver's License
  • Valid DOT Health Card

Preferred Skills:
  • Class A Driver's License (CDL)

Physical Demands:
  • Must be physically fit to endure the daily activity involved with the job
  • Must be able to work in all weather conditions
  • Must be able to lift up to 75 pounds

Pay Scale" $25 - $40 /hr
Benefits offered to eligible employees include medical, dental, vision, and supplemental life insurance, along with Paid Time Off, paid Holidays, traditional and ROTH 401(k) options with company match, employee stock purchase plan, education assistance program, employee assistance program, training and development opportunities, Telecommunications Industry Registered Apprenticeship Program, and a Commercial Driver's License obtainment program.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
All offers of employment are expressly contingent upon the satisfactory completion, in accordance with Company policy, of a pre-employment drug screening and may be subject to a background check.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
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About MP

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Human resources consulting services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Beverly, MA, US

Year founded

2004

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