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Horizontal Directional Drill Operator Jobs in Indiana

Midwest Mole

HDD Drill Operator

Greenfield, IN · On-site

Be in a local operators union or willingness to get into one ... Operation of Horizontal Directional Drill Machines * Operate HDD Locator a plus * Help with HDPE ...

Midwest Mole

HDD Drill Operator

Greenfield, IN · On-site

Be in a local operators union or willingness to get into one ... Operation of Horizontal Directional Drill Machines * Operate HDD Locator a plus * Help with HDPE ...

Midwest Mole

HDD Drill Operator

Greenfield, IN · On-site

Be in a local operators union or willingness to get into one ... Operation of Horizontal Directional Drill Machines * Operate HDD Locator a plus * Help with HDPE ...

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Horizontal Directional Drill Operator information

Is horizontal directional drill operator a good career?

Horizontal directional drill operators are skilled tradespeople who operate specialized equipment to install underground utilities with minimal surface disruption. The job offers steady employment, competitive wages, and opportunities for advancement, especially with experience and certifications. It often requires physical stamina, technical skills, and safety training, making it a viable career in construction and infrastructure development.

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 expertise in drilling operations, site safety, underground utility locating, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Proficiency with drilling rigs, locators, mud mixing systems, and often a CDL license or equipment certifications is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication make someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure safe, accurate, and efficient completion of drilling projects, minimizing risks and downtime.

What are some common challenges faced by a horizontal directional drill operator on a typical project?

Horizontal Directional Drill Operators often encounter challenges such as varying soil conditions, unexpected underground obstacles, and maintaining precise bore paths to avoid utility strikes. Effective communication with the project team and utility locators is essential to navigate these challenges safely and efficiently. Operators must also adapt to changing weather conditions and ensure that all equipment is properly maintained to minimize downtime.

What is the difference between Horizontal Directional Drill Operator vs Trench Technician?

AspectHorizontal Directional Drill OperatorTrench Technician
CredentialsOSHA certification, CDL often preferredOSHA certification, basic construction safety training
Work EnvironmentUnderground, outdoor construction sitesSurface, open trenches, outdoor sites
Industry UsageUtility installation, telecommunications, pipelinesUtility repair, excavation, infrastructure projects

The Horizontal Directional Drill Operator and Trench Technician both work in underground construction environments, but the Drill Operator specializes in underground drilling using specialized equipment, while the Trench Technician focuses on excavating trenches for utility lines. Both roles require safety certifications and are essential in infrastructure projects, but they differ in equipment used and specific tasks performed.

What is a horizontal directional drill operator?

A Horizontal Directional Drill Operator is a skilled professional responsible for operating drilling equipment used to install underground pipes, conduits, or cables with minimal surface disruption. They guide and control the drilling machinery to ensure precise placement according to project specifications, often navigating beneath roads, rivers, or other obstacles. These operators must understand soil conditions, read blueprints, and maintain safety standards throughout the drilling process. Their work is essential for utility installations such as water, gas, telecommunications, and electrical lines.
What are popular job titles related to Horizontal Directional Drill Operator jobs in Indiana? For Horizontal Directional Drill Operator jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Horizontal Directional Drill Operator jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Horizontal Directional Drill Operator jobs in Indiana are:
Horizontal Directional Drill Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Horizontal Directional Drill Operator job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution.

JDH - Directional Drill Operator

NORTHERN LIGHTS & JDH CONTRACTING

Plainfield, IN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

JOB TITLE: Directional Drill Operator – Fiber Division
STATUS: Full-Time Employee
RELEVANT WORK EXPERIENCE: Experience required. Minimum 1 year of prior experience or training as a drill operator preferred.

JOB SUMMARY: The Directional Drill Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of horizontal directional drilling equipment used to install underground utilities, including fiber optic conduit systems. Operators perform drilling tasks in accordance with project plans and directions from the Foreman, ensuring accuracy, safety, and productivity in varying site conditions.

TYPICAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Operate horizontal directional drills and related equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Perform daily calibration of locators and drill heads as directed.
  • Identify and expose existing utilities using potholing, windowing, or other safe digging practices.
  • Connect and stub-up conduit and wire as directed in project plans.
  • Excavate pits, trenches, and potholes when required.
  • Restore and/or landscape disturbed areas of the job site.
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work area.
  • Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and emergency protocols.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES:

  • Safety-focused with strong awareness of underground utility hazards.
  • Reliable and consistent attendance and punctuality.
  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, rain, snow, and wind.
  • Willingness to travel and participate in on-call rotations as needed.
  • Self-motivated and adaptable to changing job site conditions.
  • Team-oriented with strong work ethic and integrity.
     

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE / SKILLS:

  • Proficiency in operating directional drilling equipment (Vermeer or Ditch Witch experience preferred).
  • Familiarity with safe drilling practices, strike alerts, and emergency procedures.
  • Knowledge of drilling fluids and proper mixing procedures for ground conditions.
  • Understanding of rod care, rotation, and use of support equipment (vacuum units, reel trailers, digging equipment).
  • CDL Class A driver’s license preferred.

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