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Horizontal Directional Drill Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Essel

Horizontal Directional Driller

Manassas, VA · On-site

$24.25 - $30/hr

Horizontal Directional Driller Company: Essel Job Overview: Essel is seeking a skilled Horizontal ... Identify and troubleshoot problems during drill operations to minimize delays. * Adhere to all ...

Essel

Horizontal Directional Driller

Manassas, VA · On-site

$24.25 - $30/hr

Horizontal Directional Driller Company: Essel Job Overview: Essel is seeking a skilled Horizontal ... Identify and troubleshoot problems during drill operations to minimize delays. * Adhere to all ...

Essel

Horizontal Directional Driller

Manassas, VA

$24.25 - $30/hr

Horizontal Directional Driller Company: Essel Job Overview: Essel is seeking a skilled Horizontal ... Identify and troubleshoot problems during drill operations to minimize delays. * Adhere to all ...

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Horizontal Directional Drill information

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How much do horizontal directional drill jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for horizontal directional drill in the United States is $26.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are horizontal directional drills used for?

Horizontal directional drills are used to install underground utilities such as water, gas, electrical lines, and telecommunications without disturbing surface structures. They enable precise, minimally invasive trenchless construction in various soil conditions, often requiring specialized training and equipment. These drills are essential for projects in urban areas, environmentally sensitive sites, or where surface disruption must be minimized.

Is directional drilling a good career?

Horizontal directional drill operators work in the construction and utility industries, using specialized equipment to install underground infrastructure with minimal surface disruption. The job offers steady employment, requires technical skills, and often involves working outdoors in various weather conditions. It can be a good career for those interested in hands-on work and technical problem-solving.

What are some common challenges faced by Horizontal Directional Drill Operators on a typical project?

Horizontal Directional Drill Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating unexpected underground obstacles, maintaining precise bore paths, and adapting to varying soil conditions. Effective communication with utility locators and the rest of the crew is crucial to prevent damage to existing infrastructure. Additionally, operators must consistently follow safety protocols and adapt to changing site conditions, which can require quick problem-solving and teamwork. Staying organized and proactive helps ensure projects are completed efficiently and safely.

What type of drilling pays the most?

In the drilling industry, horizontal directional drilling (HDD) jobs tend to pay higher wages compared to traditional vertical drilling due to the specialized skills and equipment involved. Experienced HDD operators with certifications and knowledge of underground utilities can earn higher salaries, especially in high-demand regions or large-scale projects.

What is the difference between Horizontal Directional Drill vs Horizontal Boring Machine Operator?

AspectHorizontal Directional DrillHorizontal Boring Machine Operator
CredentialsOSHA certification, CDL often preferredOSHA certification, CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, underground utility installationConstruction sites, underground utility installation
Industry UsageUtility, telecommunications, constructionUtility, telecommunications, construction

Both Horizontal Directional Drills and Horizontal Boring Machine Operators work in similar environments, often on construction sites installing underground utilities. They require comparable certifications and serve overlapping industries. The main difference lies in the specific equipment used; Horizontal Directional Drills are specialized for precise underground drilling, while Horizontal Boring Machine Operators handle a broader range of boring machinery. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the underground construction industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Horizontal Directional Drill Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Horizontal Directional Drill Operator, you need strong knowledge of drilling techniques, underground utilities, and safety procedures, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Familiarity with drill rigs, locating systems, and equipment maintenance is crucial, and some positions may require a commercial driver's license (CDL) or safety certifications like OSHA. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help operators navigate complex job sites and coordinate with teams. These skills ensure safe, accurate, and efficient installation of underground utilities while minimizing risk and project delays.

What Are Horizontal Directional Drill Jobs?

As a horizontal directional drill user, your job is to support construction efforts and use HDD equipment to lay an underground utility line without having to dig down from the surface. Horizontal directional drillers help install pipes of various sizes under different obstructions, including dirt, roads, railways, rivers, and other impediments. In many cases, this job requires maneuvering the drill to avoid existing pipes, particularly those containing natural gas, electricity, water, or sewage. Most drillers in this industry work in teams, though you may work independently for small jobs. This job may require working evenings, nights, weekends, or holidays as necessary to meet a construction schedule.

How much does a horizontal driller make?

A horizontal directional drill operator typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with specialized equipment knowledge may earn higher wages, especially in regions with high demand for underground utility installation. Overtime and union benefits can also impact total compensation.

What is a Horizontal Directional Drill operator?

A Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) operator is a skilled professional who operates drilling equipment to install underground utilities such as pipes, cables, or conduits without the need for traditional trenching. Using specialized HDD machines, the operator drills a pilot hole along a predetermined path and then enlarges it to accommodate the utility line. This method minimizes surface disruption, making it ideal for crossing roads, rivers, or other obstacles. HDD operators must understand soil conditions, equipment operation, and safety protocols to ensure efficient and safe installations.
More about Horizontal Directional Drill jobs
What cities are hiring for Horizontal Directional Drill jobs? Cities with the most Horizontal Directional Drill job openings:
What states have the most Horizontal Directional Drill jobs? States with the most job openings for Horizontal Directional Drill jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Horizontal Directional Drill jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Horizontal Directional Drill jobs are:
Horizontal Directional Drill jobs near you
Infographic showing various Horizontal Directional Drill job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,296 per year, or $26.1 per hour.
Horizontal Directional Drill Operator

Horizontal Directional Drill Operator

Essel

Manassas, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 15 hours ago

Job description

Job Title:

Horizontal Directional Drill Operator

Company:

Essel

Overview:

Essel is looking for an experienced Horizontal Directional Drill Operator to support our infrastructure projects. The operator will be responsible for operating drilling equipment to install underground utilities with precision and safety.

Responsibilities:
  • Operate horizontal directional drilling machinery efficiently and safely.
  • Perform routine equipment inspection and maintenance.
  • Interpret blueprints and job site plans to determine drill paths.
  • Monitor drilling progress and troubleshoot issues.
  • Coordinate with the crew to ensure smooth project execution and adherence to safety regulations.
  • Maintain a safe work environment by following all safety standards and protocols.
Requirements:
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • 5+ years of experience as a Horizontal Directional Drill Operator.
  • Strong understanding of HDD equipment and processes.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and site maps.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
  • Physically capable of working outdoors under various weather conditions.
  • Valid driver's license.

Requirements

  • Relevant certifications or training in horizontal directional drilling preferred.
  • Experience in utility installation projects is an asset.
  • Ability to work flexible hours including overtime and weekends.
  • Commitment to adhering to safety policies and procedures.

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