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Hdd Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Benton Triage

HDD Operator (Driller)

Colorado Springs, CO

$22.75 - $30.75/hr

HDD Operator (Driller) Who We Are: Benton Triage is a trusted, reliable, and reputable leader in aerial and underground FTTH/FTTP construction. With over 20 years of experience building and ...

Klaasmeyer Construction Company, Inc

HDD Locator

Conway, AR · On-site

$21.25 - $26.25/hr

Operating electronic bore tracking systems to monitor drill head position, depth, pitch, and roll ... Working knowledge of HDD operations - you understand what the operator is doing and why your ...

Klaasmeyer Construction Company Inc

HDD Locator

Conway, AR · On-site

$21.25 - $26.25/hr

Operating electronic bore tracking systems to monitor drill head position, depth, pitch, and roll ... Working knowledge of HDD operations - you understand what the operator is doing and why your ...

Mears Construction

HDD Operator with CDL

Charlotte, NC · On-site

HDD Operators ensure that drilling operations are conducted safely, accurately, and in compliance with project specifications and environmental regulations. WHY JOIN MEARS? * Build America: Mears is ...

Klaasmeyer Construction Company, Inc.

HDD Locator

Conway, AR · On-site

$21.25 - $26.25/hr

We're hiring our next Locator to track the HDD in real time, guiding it to depth and on path, and ... Operating electronic bore tracking systems to monitor drill head position, depth, pitch, and roll ...

Quanta Services

CDL HDD Operator

Rathdrum, ID · On-site

$24 - $35/hr

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 ...

FiberTel, LLC

CDL HDD Operator

Rathdrum, ID · On-site

$24 - $35/hr

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 ...

Klaasmeyer Construction Company, Inc.

HDD Locator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$23.50 - $29/hr

We're hiring our next Locator to track the HDD in real time, guiding it to depth and on path, and ... Operating electronic bore tracking systems to monitor drill head position, depth, pitch, and roll ...

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Hdd Operator information

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How much do hdd operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 18, 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.

How much does a drill rig operator earn?

A drill rig operator's average salary varies by location and experience but typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 per year. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy equipment often earn higher wages, especially in industries like construction, mining, or oil and gas. Wages may also include benefits such as overtime pay and hazard allowances.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

HDD operators typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily earnings are more common in specialized fields like executive consulting, high-level project management, or certain freelance roles with significant experience. Some high-paying jobs in construction, oil and gas, or consulting can reach that level, especially with overtime, bonuses, or specialized skills. However, most standard HDD operator positions pay significantly less daily.

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.

How much do HDD locators make?

HDD locators, or utility locators who identify underground cables and pipes, typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and certification. Experienced operators with specialized tools and safety training may earn higher wages or hourly rates. Salaries can also vary based on whether they work full-time, part-time, or contract positions.

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 is an HDD operator?

An HDD operator is a construction professional who operates horizontal directional drilling (HDD) equipment to install underground utilities such as pipes and cables. They are responsible for controlling the drilling process, ensuring safety, and following project specifications, often requiring technical skills and knowledge of machinery. The role typically involves working outdoors and may require certifications in equipment operation and safety procedures.

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.

More about Hdd Operator jobs
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Hdd Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hdd Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,827 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Ready to Drill Big? Join Cannon as an HDD Operator

Cannon Construction

Portland, OR

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Ready to Drill Big? Join Cannon as an HDD Operator! Cannon Companies is on the hunt for a rockstar Horizontal Directional Drill Operator to power through challenging projects and elevate our elite drill crew.

If you've got the skills, the grit, and a great attitude-we want YOU on our team! This role does travel across the PNW and surrounding states. What You'll Be Doing (And Crushing It At) As our AT HDD Operator, you'll work with: Drills up to 100k lbs in all kinds of ground conditions-rock, native, you name it!

Big pipe bores-we're talking up to 28" diameter Wireline locating tools that keep the project on point Mud reclaimers and smart drilling solutions Whether you're boring under rivers or highways, navigating mountains, or dropping grade bores for power, water, sewer, or telecom-we do the cool, complex, high-stakes bores others avoid. 🔧 What Makes This Role Awesome Competitive Hourly Pay; Paid Weekly Day-one PTO and 6 paid holidays Full medical, dental, and vision Life and disability insurance A real team-focused, family-style work culture where your growth matters A Day in the Life on Cannon's Drill Crew You'll be the go-to for: Running badass rigs like Ditch Witch, Vermeer, American Auger Reading profiles like a boss and following through with high-precision bores Mastering TK, DCI, and magnetic locating tools Keeping the schedule tight, the worksite safe, and the client happy Your Toolbox (aka What You Bring) 3+ years on HDD equipment or support gear (skid steers, vac trucks, crane trucks, etc.) Proven experience drilling in mixed soils & using the right mud mix Valid Class A CDL (tanker endorsement = bonus points) AT Drilling & walk-over locating know-how (grade bores = big win!) Great at troubleshooting, thinking critically, and owning your work Serious about safety-no shortcuts here Ready to travel, stay flexible, and jump in when needed The Fine Print This is a Safety Sensitive Position. You must pass a pre-employment drug test and background check.

Cannon Companies is an Equal Opportunity Employer-diversity is part of our strength. Ready to Join the Cannon Crew? Smash that apply button!

Our 3-minute mobile-friendly application gets you one step closer to joining the most badass drill team around. Let's connect the future-one bore at a time.

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