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Horizontal Directional Drill Locator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) Locator Company: Straight Line Directional Drilling & Geothermal, Inc. Location: Hudsonville, MI (Work covers multiple local job sites) Pay Rate: $28.00 - $35.00 ...

Be Seen First

Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) Locator Company: Straight Line Directional Drilling & Geothermal, Inc. Location: Hudsonville, MI (Work covers multiple local job sites) Pay Rate: $28.00 - $35.00 ...

Directional Drilling Locator

Harmony, MN · On-site

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Directional Drill Locator to join a two-person horizontal directional drilling crew. This individual will work closely with an experienced drill ...

$22 - $27/hr

Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Directional Drill Locator to join a two-person horizontal directional drilling crew. This individual will work closely with an experienced drill ...

$22 - $27/hr

Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Directional Drill Locator to join a two-person horizontal directional drilling crew. This individual will work closely with an experienced drill ...

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Horizontal Directional Drill Locator information

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$13

$26

$34

How much do horizontal directional drill locator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for horizontal directional drill locator 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 is a horizontal directional drill locator?

A Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) Locator is a professional who operates specialized equipment to track and guide the drill head during underground drilling projects. Their main responsibility is to ensure the drill follows the planned path, avoiding obstacles like utilities and maintaining correct depth and alignment. HDD Locators work closely with drill operators to communicate real-time information, helping to prevent damage and ensure safe, efficient installation of pipelines, cables, or conduits. This role requires attention to detail, knowledge of underground mapping, and familiarity with electronic tracking systems.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a horizontal directional drill locator?

To thrive as a Horizontal Directional Drill Locator, you need strong understanding of underground utility mapping, drilling operations, and safety standards, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with locating equipment (such as DigiTrak or Subsite), GPS systems, and utility detection tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, precise drilling operations and help prevent costly or dangerous utility strikes.

What challenges do horizontal directional drill locators face, and how can they be managed?

Horizontal Directional Drill Locators often encounter challenges such as identifying and avoiding underground utilities, interpreting complex drilling plans, and adapting to variable soil conditions. Managing these challenges requires strong communication with the drill operator, careful use of locating equipment, and staying updated on local utility maps. Proactive planning and ongoing training in safety protocols are also essential to minimize risks and ensure successful project completion.

What is the difference between Horizontal Directional Drill Locator vs Pipe Locator?

AspectHorizontal Directional Drill LocatorPipe Locator
CredentialsOSHA certification, technical trainingOSHA certification, technical training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, underground drillingConstruction sites, underground utilities
Industry UsageDirectional drilling projects, underground infrastructureUtility installation, pipeline detection

Both Horizontal Directional Drill Locators and Pipe Locators require similar certifications and are used in underground utility work. The main difference is that Drill Locators focus on locating and guiding horizontal drilling equipment, while Pipe Locators are used to detect existing underground pipes and utilities. Understanding these distinctions helps in selecting the right professional for specific underground projects.

How much does a horizontal directional drill locator make?

A horizontal directional drill locator typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Skilled operators with specialized knowledge of locating underground utilities can earn higher wages, especially in regions with high demand for underground construction work.
More about Horizontal Directional Drill Locator jobs
Infographic showing various Horizontal Directional Drill Locator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,296 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Horizontal Directional Drill Locator / HDD / Excavation

Straight Line Directional Drilling and GeoThermal

Holland, MI • On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

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Job description

Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) Locator

Company: Straight Line Directional Drilling & Geothermal, Inc.

Location: Hudsonville, MI (Work covers multiple local job sites)

Pay Rate: $28.00 - $35.00 per hour (Depending on Experience)

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

Schedule: Monday – Friday (10+ hours/day). Enjoy your weekends—NO Saturdays or Sundays required! Overtime available.

What We Offer (Compensation & Benefits):

At Straight Line, we take care of the people who take care of our clients. Your benefits package includes:

  •  Top Pay: $28.00 – $35.00/hr + Weekly Overtime (50+ hrs/wk = $80k–$105k+ yearly).
  •  Annual Profit-Sharing Bonus: Share in the company’s success! Based on company profitability and individual performance, crew members typically earn an additional $5,000 – $10,000+ annually in profit-sharing bonuses.
  •  Freezer Meat Perk: Free quarter-beef + 1 whole processed pig every year—processed, packaged, and ready for your freezer!
  •  Home Every Night: 100% local work in West Michigan (rare travel 4–6 nights/year max).
  • ️ Guaranteed Weekends Off: Work hard Monday–Friday, enjoy your Saturday & Sunday.
  •  Full Benefits Package: Comprehensive Health Insurance + Paid Vacation & Holidays.
  •  Retirement Savings: 401(k) program with Company Match.
  •  Gear Allowance: Boot reimbursement program to keep you equipped and comfortable.

About Us:

Straight Line Directional Drilling & Geothermal, Inc. is a trusted, specialized contractor based in Hudsonville, MI. We excel in horizontal directional drilling and closed-loop geothermal installations. From installing water/sanitary mains, storm lines, and electrical/fiber sleeves to setting up cutting-edge geothermal loop fields for residential and commercial applications, we pride ourselves on precision, safety, and a strong team culture.

Our fleet features top-tier equipment including Ditch Witch JT9, JT20, and JT40 rigs, utilizing both Subsite and DCI locate systems. If you are looking for a company where your hard work is valued, your weekends are respected, and the career growth is real, we want you on our team.

Position Overview:

We are seeking an HDD Locator to join our tight-knit crew. In this pivotal role, you will be the eyes and ears of the drilling operation, utilizing advanced locating systems to guide the drill head safely and efficiently. This is a dynamic, hands-on role that blends advanced locating technology with heavy equipment operation (such as mini excavators and vacuum trailers) and essential ground support.

What You’ll Do (Key Responsibilities):

  • Locating & Tracking: Utilize Subsite and DCI locating systems to accurately track and navigate the drill head, maintaining constant communication with the drill operator to ensure precise installations.
  • Equipment Operation: Safely set up and operate HDD rigs, mini excavators, and vacuum trailers.
  • Site Preparation: Collaborate with the crew to prepare job sites, including deploying traffic control cones and road signage, setting up the drill, vacuum systems, and mud-mixing systems.
  • Utility Spotting: Visually verify and pothole/spot existing underground utilities to be crossed during the boring process to ensure zero damage.
  • Fluid Management: Analyze ground conditions and mix drilling mud with the correct additives to maintain borehole integrity for smooth product pull-back.
  • Maintenance & Care: Perform routine minor repairs and preventative maintenance on equipment. Keep company trucks and equipment clean, organized, and presentable.
  • Cross-Training Support: Work alongside our geothermal installation crews as needed.
  • Safety First: Maintain a sharp focus on safety, look out for your crew members, and immediately report any unsafe conditions to the foreman.

What We Are Looking For (Qualifications):

  • Experience: Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) experience is Preferred but we will train the right candidate.
  • Licensing: A valid Class A CDL recommended but we will train the right candidate.
  • Safety Compliance: Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screening and participate in ongoing random drug testing in accordance with DOT regulations.
  • Physical Capability: Ability to lift heavy objects, stand, walk, and work for extended periods in diverse outdoor weather and field conditions.
  • Mindset: A self-motivated team player who anticipates the next step to keep the job site running efficiently.
  • Travel: Nearly 100% local to West Michigan. Rare travel required (only about 4–6 nights per year).

Ready to Join the Team?

If you have a strong work ethic, we want to talk to you.

Apply today to take the next step in your career with Straight Line Directional Drilling & Geothermal!

Learn more about us at: https://www.straightlineddg.com/