Horizontal Directional Drill Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Join Our Team at R-2 Contractors!
R-2 Contractors is seeking an accomplished and visionary Utility-Scale Horizontal Directional Drill Division Manager to lead and grow our Horizontal Directional Drill Division. This executive-level leadership role is responsible for building a high-performing organization that consistently delivers safe, productive, and high-quality trenchless conduit installation projects across the United States.
Working in partnership with the Operations Manager and executive leadership, the Division Manager will oversee all aspects of Horizontal Directional Drill operations, including bore planning, drill setup, pilot bores, reaming, drill fluid management, conduit installation, utility crossings, equipment utilization, and operational execution. This individual will be responsible for developing people, improving operational performance, strengthening customer relationships, and driving long-term division growth.
Success in this role is measured not only by operational excellence, but by the ability to build exceptional leaders, earn the confidence of customers, and create a Horizontal Directional Drill Division that reflects the R-2 standard of excellence.
Position: Utility-Scale Horizontal Directional Drill Division Manager
Location: Gilbert, AZ or Prineville, OR
Travel Requirements:

• Approximately 25% travel each month to project sites nationwide is required
• Additional travel may be required to support critical project meetings, customer meetings, leadership meetings, safety initiatives, quality audits, compliance activities, or other business needs

• Provide strategic leadership for all Horizontal Directional Drill operations across multiple utility-scale construction projects
• Build, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of Superintendents, Foremen, Drill Operators, Locators, and field leaders
• Lead all aspects of trenchless conduit installation, including bore planning, drill setup, pilot bores, reaming, drill fluid management, conduit installation, utility crossings, and operational execution
• Plan and approve bore profiles, utility crossing strategies, and drilling methodologies to ensure safe and efficient execution
• Ensure manpower, drilling equipment, tooling, materials, subcontractors, and resources are properly planned and coordinated to support project execution
• Coordinate drilling resources, support equipment, drill fluid systems, and production sequencing to maximize efficiency
• Ensure bores are completed safely, accurately, and in accordance with project specifications
• Partner closely with Project Managers, Operations Leadership, Estimating, and executive leadership to ensure successful project delivery
• Drive operational consistency through planning, communication, accountability, and execution
• Monitor production, productivity, equipment utilization, quality, and overall operational performance
• Support project planning, scheduling, forecasting, budgeting, and resource management
• Develop future leaders through coaching, mentorship, performance management, and succession planning
• Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, General Contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and project stakeholders
• Identify opportunities to improve productivity, efficiency, safety, quality, and operational performance throughout the division
• Champion continuous improvement initiatives while reinforcing company processes and best practices
• Promote a culture where safety is always the highest priority
• Lead by example while living and reinforcing the R-2 Core Values every day

• Minimum 10 years of Horizontal Directional Drilling construction experience, including utility-scale power, renewable energy, transmission, substation, telecommunications, or large underground infrastructure projects
• Proven experience leading multiple Horizontal Directional Drill crews, Superintendents, and large-scale trenchless construction operations
• Strong knowledge of bore planning, utility locating, pilot bores, reaming, drill fluid management, conduit installation, utility crossings, and trenchless construction methods
• Demonstrated experience managing large Horizontal Directional Drill rigs, support equipment, tooling, and drilling operations
• Strong understanding of production planning, operational scheduling, risk management, and resource allocation
• Strong financial and business acumen with experience managing operational budgets and project performance
• Proven ability to build, lead, and develop high-performing teams
• Excellent leadership, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to build strong working relationships with customers, project teams, and executive leadership
• Demonstrated commitment to safety, accountability, operational excellence, and quality workmanship
• Ability to travel as required to support projects, customers, and company operations
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record
• Ability to successfully complete pre-employment drug screening and background check

• Builds a division where employees are engaged, developed, and proud to work
• Consistently delivers safe, productive, and high-quality trenchless conduit installation
• Develops strong Superintendents, Foremen, Drill Operators, Locators, and future leaders
• Earns the trust and confidence of customers through reliable execution and exceptional performance
• Delivers accurate, efficient, and high-quality conduit installations that support project success
• Plans proactively, communicates effectively, and resolves challenges before they impact production
• Continuously strengthens the division through improved people, systems, processes, and operational performance

• Lead with integrity, humility, professionalism, and accountability
• Put the safety and success of their people first
• Coach, mentor, and develop future leaders
• Build trust through consistent execution and open communication
• Foster teamwork while empowering others to make decisions and grow
• Hold themselves and others accountable to the highest standards
• Protect and strengthen the culture that makes R-2 different
• Leave the division stronger than they found it

• Do What's Right
• Put Your Name On It
• Never Accept Mediocrity
• I Am R-2
• Grow or Die

• Dig Deep and Grind It Out
• Give It Your All
• Do What It Takes
• Dedication

• Do What You Say
• Be Accountable
• If You Ain't First, You're Last
• Accept Criticism
• Own Your Position

• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance (company funded plans available for the entire family)
• 401(k) with 3% company match
• 5-Year Employment Appreciation Bonus

Ready to Join Our Team?
If you're ready to lead one of the premier Heavy Civil divisions in the utility-scale power industry while building exceptional people, delivering outstanding projects, and shaping the future of R-2 Contractors, we'd love to hear from you.
At R-2 Contractors, we don't simply move earth—we build infrastructure, develop leaders, strengthen teams, and create a culture that refuses to settle for anything less than excellence.
Apply today and help us build what's next.
R-2 Contractors is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.