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Horizontal Directional Drill Operator Jobs in Michigan

B&M Ashman

Directional Drill Operator

Canton, MI

Directional Drill Operator The Directional Drill Operator is responsible for operating different directional drilling and other equipment required for underground construction. Responsibilities ...

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All JobsHorizontal Directional Drill Operator JobsHorizontal Directional Drill Operator Jobs in Michigan

Horizontal Directional Drill Operator information

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$11

$24

$44

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

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for horizontal directional drill operator in Michigan is $24.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.22 and $27.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

Is horizontal directional drill operator a hard job?

Horizontal directional drill operators perform complex tasks that require technical skills, physical effort, and attention to safety protocols. The job involves working with specialized equipment in various environments, often requiring certifications and the ability to handle physically demanding conditions. It can be challenging due to the technical knowledge and safety considerations involved.

What are popular job titles related to Horizontal Directional Drill Operator jobs in Michigan?

For Horizontal Directional Drill Operator jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Horizontal Directional Drill Operator jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Horizontal Directional Drill Operator jobs in Michigan are:

Horizontal Directional Drill Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Horizontal Directional Drill Operator job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,480 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Directional Drill Operator/Locator

Detroit, MI • On-site

Lighthouse Technologies USA LLC
See more jobs at Lighthouse Technologies USA LLCexternal

$28 - $33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

The Directional Drill Operator will implement all directional drilling plans and procedures, oversee all drilling operations, and ensure compliance to all drilling objectives. The Directional Drill Operator will be responsible for the setup and completion of drilling variable-sized underground holes and pulling back of the required conduit. The Operator should have great attention to detail and strong communication skills. 50% Travel

Lighthouse Technologies offers:
  • Uniforms, safety gear, and specialty tools
  • Medical, Dental, Life, and Disability insurance
  • Paid time off and paid holidays
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan
  • Direct deposit every Friday
    • Responsibilities:
  • Set up and operate various directional boring equipment.
  • A clear understanding of locating information and utility conflict resolution.
  • Complete assigned projects include digging boring pit, directional boring, pulling back conduit, splicing conduit sections, pulling fiber, setting hand holes, backfilling, seeding, and core drilling.
  • Always follow safety and drilling operation procedures to always guarantee a safe work environment.
  • Oversee laborers and/or crew members’ work and monitor efficiency.
  • Clean, check fluid levels, and conduct a visual inspection of vehicle/equipment to ensure your vehicle/equipment performs at the highest efficiency and safety standards.
  • Conduct postjob quality checks.
    • Requirements:
  • Must have a class A CDL and be able to deliver equipment to job locations prior experience in Telecom.
  • Prior experience operating various horizontal directional drills / Vemeer , Ditch witch
  • Must be knowledgeable in drilling in various soil conditions
  • Must be experienced in drilling around utilities
  • Must have dig safe certification
  • Must have some experience operating excavator / backhoe.
  • Must be able to perform daily maintenance on directional drill
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred
  • This individual should be a team player and have good leadership skills.
    • Physical Demands:
  • Frequent walking, standing, sitting within the work area
  • Must be able to lift/push/pull/carry 80100 lbs
  • Must be comfortable with heights up to 28 feet
  • Ability to effectively communicate with employees, management, peers, etc.
  • Must be able to work in various weather conditions (hot, cold, wet, and dry)
  • Ability to work in a confined space and at high elevations (poles, hydraulic lift buckets, ladders)
  • Must be able to work in a loud, noisefilled environment out in the field

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