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Hdd Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Primoris

PDS - HDD Operator

Ocala, FL

The HDD Operator's main responsibility is to operate heavy equipment safely and effectively for the installation of natural gas pipelines. The Operator will perform other duties as required to ...

Primoris

PDS - HDD Operator

Orlando, FL

The HDD Operator's main responsibility is to operate heavy equipment safely and effectively for the installation of natural gas pipelines. The Operator will perform other duties as required to ...

Primoris

PDS - HDD Operator

Saint Petersburg, FL

The HDD Operator's main responsibility is to operate heavy equipment safely and effectively for the installation of natural gas pipelines. The Operator will perform other duties as required to ...

PRIMORIS USA

PDS - HDD Operator

Tampa, FL · On-site

The HDD Operator's main responsibility is to operate heavy equipment safely and effectively for the installation of natural gas pipelines. The Operator will perform other duties as required to ...

FiberTel, LLC

HDD Operator

Springville, UT · On-site

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

Quanta Services

HDD Operator

Springville, UT

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

Quanta Services

HDD Operator - Hamtramck, MI

Hamtramck, MI

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

HDD Operators work with a field crew to safely install or replace underground utilities using directional drilling technology. This role requires operating specialized equipment, understanding ...

Primoris

PDS - HDD Operator

Tampa, FL

The HDD Operator's main responsibility is to operate heavy equipment safely and effectively for the installation of natural gas pipelines. The Operator will perform other duties as required to ...

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Hdd Operator information

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$12

$18

$23

How much do hdd operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for hdd operator in the United States is $18.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

Do you make good money doing directional drilling?

Directional drilling operators typically earn competitive wages that vary by region and experience level. The job often involves specialized skills, equipment operation, and safety certifications, which can influence earning potential. Overall, it can be a well-paying career within the construction and energy industries.

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.

More about Hdd Operator jobs
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What states have the most Hdd Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Hdd Operator jobs include:
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Hdd Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hdd Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, and 94% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,827 per year, or $18.2 per hour.
PDS - HDD Operator

PDS - HDD Operator

Primoris

Ocala, FL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Primoris Services rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 77 rated construction

Job description

We are looking to build crews where we need to add Laborers, Foreman, Fusers and Operators!! Primoris Distribution Services (PDS), a division of Primoris Services Corporation, is a publicly owned and operated construction contracting company that provides both specific and turnkey services for its customers in the gas, oil, electric and telecommunications industry. Primoris Distribution Services is an industry leader in the installation of gas lines (plastic and steel).

We have immediate openings for Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) Operator in Tampa, Orlando, St.Petersburg and Ocala, Florida.

Primary Responsibilities include:

The HDD Operator’s main responsibility is to operate heavy equipment safely and effectively for the installation of natural gas pipelines. The Operator will perform other duties as required to support the crew.

Primary Requirements:

  • Previous Horizontal Direction Drill experience is required.
  • Backhoe and/or Mini Ex experience is a plus
  • Working experience in construction, or the utility distribution industry in Gas or Electric is preferred.
  • 3 plus years of working experience in operating, excavation equipment in utility industry is required.
  • Requires technical thinking, and the ability to read standards and schematics.

Physical Demands (All Positions):

  • Must be able to lift and/or move 50 pounds
  • Standing, walking including and primarily on uneven surfaces, turning, stooping, kneeling, crouching, speaking and hearing are required continuously

Work Environment (All Positions):

  • Employee will be subjected to outside weather conditions
  • Employee could be exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, cold, heat and humidity.
  • The noise level in the work environment can often be loud
  • The employee is frequently exposed to slow- or fast-moving traffic in the work environment

Operators must be willing to work overtime as dictated by workload volumes.

Our company is a drug-free environment. This position requires compliance with the company and Federal Department of Transportation (FMSCA or PHMSA) drug testing policies and procedures for both pre-employment and continuing random.

PDS provides competitive market pay, with a comprehensive benefit package that includes:

  • Medical, Dental and Vision insurance
  • 401(k) with Generous Company Match
  • Company-paid Disability Insurance
  • Company-paid Life Insurance
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Vacation

Qualified veterans, minorities and women are encouraged to apply.

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