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Hdd Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Google

Engineering Manager, SSD Storage

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

... HDD)). * Familiarity with SSDs, NAND flash, embedded software, storage protocols and security ... Operating with scale and speed, our exceptional software engineers are just getting started -- and ...

Nokia

Sr. Engineer - Yield & Quality Systems

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$119K - $171K/yr

... operating procedures (SOP), and control-related guidelines. • Coordinate cross-functional ... HDD manufacturing processes preferred • Familiarity with data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, SQL ...

LinkedIn

Staff Engineer, Hardware Reliability

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$144K - $191K/yr

Experience qualifying and integrating new hardware platforms and operating them across a large ... Experience with storage devices and performance engineering (NVMe/SSD/HDD) and/or distributed ...

LinkedIn

Staff Engineer, Hardware Reliability

Sunnyvale, CA · Hybrid

$144K - $191K/yr

Experience qualifying and integrating new hardware platforms and operating them across a large ... Experience with storage devices and performance engineering (NVMe/SSD/HDD) and/or distributed ...

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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.

Sr. Engineer - Yield & Quality Systems

Nokia

Sunnyvale, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Nokia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 99 rated telecommunications companies

Job description

This role focuses on the execution, tracking, and continuous improvement of fab-wide quality and yield activities. The engineer will play a key role in ensuring strong closure discipline, data visibility, and operational rigor across the fab, supporting both daily manufacturing stability and long-term quality system development.

Advancing connectivity to secure a brighter world.

Nokia is a global leader in connectivity for the AI era. With expertise across fixed, mobile and transport networks, powered by the innovation of Nokia Bell Labs, we're advancing connectivity to secure a brighter world. 

Learn more about life at Nokia.


Our recruitment process

We act inclusively and respect the uniqueness of people. Our employment decisions are made regardless of race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law. We are committed to a culture of inclusion built upon our core value of respect.

If you're interested in this role but don't meet every listed requirement, we still encourage you to apply. Unique backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences enrich our teams, and you may be just the right candidate for this or another opportunity.

The length of the recruitment process may vary depending on the specific role's requirements. We strive to ensure a smooth and inclusive experience for all candidates. Discover more about the recruitment process at Nokia. 

Some of our benefits in US:
  • Corporate Retirement Savings Plan
  • Health and dental benefits
  • Short-term disability, and long-term disability
  • Life insurance, and AD&D - Company paid 2x base pay
  • Optional or Supplemental life and AD&D insurance (Employee/Spouse/Child)
  • Paid time off for holidays and Vacation
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Tuition Assistance Plan
  • Adoption assistance
  • Employee Assistance Program/Work Life Resource Program

The above benefits exclude students.


Disclaimer for US/Canada

Nokia Maintains broad annual base salary ranges for its roles in order to account for variations in knowledge, skills, experience and market conditions, and with consideration to internal peer equity. Check the salary ranges in the job info section for this role.

All North America job posts will post for a minimum of 7 calendar days and up to 180 days or until candidate/s identified.

BS or MS in Engineering (Materials, Electrical, Chemical, Mechanical, or related field)
0-3 years of experience, or recent graduate with strong technical fundamentals and internship/project experience in manufacturing or data analysis
Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ownership mindset
Basic understanding of semiconductor or HDD manufacturing processes preferred
Familiarity with data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, SQL, Python, Power BI) is a strong plus
Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively in cross-functional environments

Track and drive closure of PQM (Production Quality Management) actions and quality incidents, ensuring clear ownership, timely follow-up, and effective resolution.

Contribute to the development of line yield data analysis and dashboard (e.g., Power BI, SQL, or equivalent tools) to enhance visibility into yield trends, excursions, and key performance indicators and maintain the reporting system.

Monitor yield performance, identify top yield detractors, and ensure structured follow-up on excursion items with proper documentation and closure.

Maintain and continuously improve quality information (QI) and reporting systems, ensuring data accuracy, consistency, and accessibility across teams.

Support documentation and maintenance of quality-related materials, including specifications (SPEC), standard operating procedures (SOP), and control-related guidelines. 

Coordinate cross-functional communication across Integration, Process, Equipment, and Operations teams to align on issue status, action plans, and priorities.

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