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Horizontal Directional Drill Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Global Energy Partners, LLC

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Horizontal Directional Drill Operator

Mansfield, OH · On-site

$18 - $38/hr

Job Overview We are seeking an Experienced Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) Operator to join our crew and take on a key role in our operations. The HDD Operator will be responsible for safely and ...

Global Energy Partners, LLC

Be Seen First

Horizontal Directional Drill Operator

Mansfield, OH · On-site

$18 - $38/hr

Job Overview We are seeking an Experienced Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) Operator to join our crew and take on a key role in our operations. The HDD Operator will be responsible for safely and ...

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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$13

$26

$34

How much do horizontal directional drill jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 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 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 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.

Is directional drilling profitable?

Horizontal directional drillers can find the profession profitable depending on experience, project complexity, and regional demand. Skilled operators with certifications and knowledge of equipment like trenchless technology often command higher wages, contributing to profitability. The industry is influenced by infrastructure projects, construction cycles, and technological advancements, which can impact earning potential.

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 used for?

A horizontal directional drill is used in construction and utility work to create underground pathways for installing pipes, cables, or conduits without disturbing surface structures. It allows for precise, minimally invasive drilling beneath obstacles like roads, buildings, or natural features, often requiring specialized training and equipment. This method is essential for projects that need underground access with minimal surface disruption.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) operators can earn around $2000 per day, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand environments. These roles often require certifications, knowledge of drilling equipment, and the ability to work in challenging outdoor conditions.

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
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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

Horizontal Directional Drill Operator

Essel

Manassas, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

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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.