ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Hdd Operator Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Sandvik

Shop Assistant

Houston, TX · On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

We provide tools and services to HDD contractors globally to help them install infrastructure ... Responsible for operating the warehouse machinery in a safe manner and reporting any equipment ...

Jacqueline Construction

Be Seen First

Construction Manager - Horizontal Directional Drilling

Houston, TX · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

Supervise HDD crews, operators, locators, laborers, and subcontractors. * Plan and coordinate manpower, equipment, materials, and daily production. * Review project plans, bore profiles, utility ...

SMC Region USC

Shop Assistant

Houston, TX · On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

We provide tools and services to HDD contractors globally to help them install infrastructure ... Responsible for operating the warehouse machinery in a safe manner and reporting any equipment ...

Socket.dev

PRINCIPAL PIPELINE ENGINEER

Houston, TX · On-site

$120 - $165/hr

HDD design calculations; Roping Calculations or Minimum Bending Radius; Wheel Load Calculation ... and operating a computer. - Must be able to use body members to work, move or carry objects or ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsHdd Operator JobsHdd Operator Jobs in Houston, TX

Hdd Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do hdd operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for hdd operator in Houston, TX is $17.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $18.61 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 Houston, TX?

For Hdd Operator jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Hdd Operator jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Hdd Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:

Hdd Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hdd Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,123 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

HDD Foreman (Horizontal Directional Drilling)

GAC Enterprises, LLC

Houston, TX • On-site

$95K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

About Us

GAC Enterprises LLC is a national utility infrastructure contractor building the underground fiber and telecom networks that keep communities connected. We support telecom, utility, and infrastructure projects across the United States, and we pride ourselves on safety, quality, and the leadership of our field foremen.

The Role

We're looking for an experienced HDD Foreman to lead horizontal directional drilling operations across the DFW metro. You'll be the primary field leader on assigned bores - reading the prints, evaluating the locates, organizing your crew, and keeping production moving without ever cutting corners on safety.

This is a working foreman role. You lead from the front: on the drill, on the locator, and in the pits when the job calls for it. If you take pride in the quality of your bores and in the people you develop, you'll fit here.

What You'll Do
  • Plan and run daily HDD activity, including complex bore planning, setup, drilling, pullback, potholing, and restoration
  • Lead, train, and develop your HDD crew; set the standard for accountability and professionalism
  • Run daily toolbox talks and JHAs, set production goals, and hold the crew to them
  • Read and interpret prints, utility plans, permits, and locates
  • Coordinate with Construction Managers, inspectors, utility owners, locators, and other project personnel to keep jobs on schedule
  • Identify problems early and solve them in the field to deliver clean, on-time, on-spec work
  • Enforce OSHA and GAC safety standards, correct unsafe conditions on the spot, and hold a zero-incident standard
  • Keep drills, locators, vacuum equipment, and support gear in safe, ready condition through daily inspections and preventive maintenance, coordinating repairs with Fleet to cut downtime
  • Hold the crew accountable for operating, cleaning, fueling, and securing company equipment
  • Approve timecards, complete daily production reports, and submit field documentation accurately and on time
  • Coach up your people and help build GAC's next generation of foremen
  • DOT medical card required - you must hold a current card or be able to medically qualify for one; if you don't have one, GAC will provide the exam
Working Conditions

Outdoor, physical role on active construction sites. You'll work in all weather conditions, lift up to 75 lbs, and stand, walk, kneel, bend, and climb throughout the workday. Travel within the DFW metro is required based on project needs.

Requirements

What We're Looking For
  • 5+ years leading HDD crews as a foreman in underground utility construction required
  • Deep, hands-on HDD experience - you know the equipment and you know the ground - required
  • Background in fiber, telecom, or underground utility construction required
  • Proven track record developing and leading field crews required
  • Solid command of construction prints, utility locates, and project specs required
  • Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills required
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record required
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check required
  • Experience with Vermeer and Ditch Witch HDD equipment preferred
  • Gas or power construction, vacuum excavation, and utility locating experience preferred
  • Crew scheduling and customer relations experience a plus
  • CDL a plus

Benefits

Pay & Benefits
  • $95,000-$105,000 per year
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Paid time off and paid company holidays
  • A real path to advancement - we promote from within and invest in our leaders
  • Good equipment and real support behind every foreman

Apply