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Horizontal Directional Drill Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

GridSource

Directional Drill Operator

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

As a Directional Drill Operator, you play a crucial role in the installation of underground conduit for telecommunications infrastructure utilizing horizontal directional drill methods. You will be ...

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

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$13

$27

$51

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

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for horizontal directional drill operator in the United States is $27.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $31.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.
More about Horizontal Directional Drill Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Horizontal Directional Drill Operator jobs? Cities with the most Horizontal Directional Drill Operator job openings:
What states have the most Horizontal Directional Drill Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Horizontal Directional Drill Operator jobs include:
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Horizontal Directional Drill Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Horizontal Directional Drill Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,917 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Horizontal Directional Drilling Foreman

Midwest Mole

Greenfield, IN • On-site

$40/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES
  • Working Foreman for Horizontal Directional Drilling crew and related underground utility work in central Indiana and surrounding areas in the Midwest.
  • Operation of Horizontal Directional Drill Machines
  • Operate HDD Locator
  • HDPE Fusion
  • Supervise Mud Mixing
  • Documentation: Safety Meetings, Daily Reports, Time Reporting, Receipts
  • Locate Utilities and generate drill profiles.
  • Water and sewer installation and testing.
  • Connection to mains and service connections.
  • Crew leader able to lead with safety and perform quality work.
  • Solid understanding of trenching and excavation safety.
  • Operate Excavators, Loaders, Skid Steer, Backhoe as needed.
  • Other duties as requested by the supervisor.

QUALIFICATIONS
  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or two to three years' experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Experienced Horizontal Directional Drill Operator
  • Experienced HDD Locator Operator
  • Fusion experience and certification for HDPE
  • Prior experience in underground utility work.
  • Strong independent work ethic with ability to work within a team.
  • Clear and concise communications.
  • Strong sense of urgency, focusing on time.
  • Ability to read plans, specifications, manuals, and schematics.
  • Valid driver's license and clean driving record.
  • Must pass pre-employment DOT physical and medical examination.
  • Class A CDL with Tanker endorsement
  • Meet company's substance abuse testing requirements.
  • Welding experience preferred.
  • Travel Required
  • Drug Free

Job Type: Full Time
Salary: Based on experience
Pay Frequency: Weekly
Employment Equity
Midwest Mole, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, status as a protected veteran, status as a qualified individual with disability, or any other legally protected status. All applicants must be able to show proof of eligibility to work in the United States.

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