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Horizontal Directional Drill Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Horizontal Directional Drill Locator

Manassas, VA · On-site

$24.25 - $30/hr

HDD Locator (Horizontal Directional Drilling Locator) Position Type: Full-Time Reports To: HDD Foreman Location: Manassas VA If being a part of a world-class organization that operates in some of the ...

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Horizontal Directional Drill information

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How much do horizontal directional drill jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for horizontal directional drill 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 operator?

A Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) operator is a skilled professional who operates drilling equipment to install underground utilities such as pipes, cables, or conduits without the need for traditional trenching. Using specialized HDD machines, the operator drills a pilot hole along a predetermined path and then enlarges it to accommodate the utility line. This method minimizes surface disruption, making it ideal for crossing roads, rivers, or other obstacles. HDD operators must understand soil conditions, equipment operation, and safety protocols to ensure efficient and safe installations.

What are horizontal directional drill jobs?

As a horizontal directional drill user, your job is to support construction efforts and use HDD equipment to lay an underground utility line without having to dig down from the surface. Horizontal directional drillers help install pipes of various sizes under different obstructions, including dirt, roads, railways, rivers, and other impediments. In many cases, this job requires maneuvering the drill to avoid existing pipes, particularly those containing natural gas, electricity, water, or sewage. Most drillers in this industry work in teams, though you may work independently for small jobs. This job may require working evenings, nights, weekends, or holidays as necessary to meet a construction schedule.

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 strong knowledge of drilling techniques, underground utilities, and safety procedures, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Familiarity with drill rigs, locating systems, and equipment maintenance is crucial, and some positions may require a commercial driver's license (CDL) or safety certifications like OSHA. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help operators navigate complex job sites and coordinate with teams. These skills ensure safe, accurate, and efficient installation of underground utilities while minimizing risk and project delays.

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

Horizontal Directional Drill Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating unexpected underground obstacles, maintaining precise bore paths, and adapting to varying soil conditions. Effective communication with utility locators and the rest of the crew is crucial to prevent damage to existing infrastructure. Additionally, operators must consistently follow safety protocols and adapt to changing site conditions, which can require quick problem-solving and teamwork. Staying organized and proactive helps ensure projects are completed efficiently and safely.

What is the difference between Horizontal Directional Drill vs Horizontal Boring Machine Operator?

AspectHorizontal Directional DrillHorizontal Boring Machine Operator
CredentialsOSHA certification, CDL often preferredOSHA certification, CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, underground utility installationConstruction sites, underground utility installation
Industry UsageUtility, telecommunications, constructionUtility, telecommunications, construction

Both Horizontal Directional Drills and Horizontal Boring Machine Operators work in similar environments, often on construction sites installing underground utilities. They require comparable certifications and serve overlapping industries. The main difference lies in the specific equipment used; Horizontal Directional Drills are specialized for precise underground drilling, while Horizontal Boring Machine Operators handle a broader range of boring machinery. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the underground construction industry.

More about Horizontal Directional Drill jobs

What cities are hiring for Horizontal Directional Drill jobs?

Cities with the most Horizontal Directional Drill job openings:

What states have the most Horizontal Directional Drill jobs?

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

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

Horizontal Directional Drill jobs near you
Infographic showing various Horizontal Directional Drill job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 4% 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 (HDD) Locator

PRIMORIS USA

Balch Springs, TX • On-site

$20.75 - $25.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Are you looking for a job with a Future? It's an exciting time to join Primoris Distribution Services. Our goal is to exceed customer expectation with superior service, workmanship and innovative problem solving. If you are a hard-worker looking for a job with the opportunity to advance and grow with a company with takes pride in its workmanship and innovative problem solving, look no further!
Job Summary
As the Horizontal Directional Bore Operator/Locator, you possess a high level of expertise in locating and product support equipment, as well as running horizontal/directional drill rigs prefer 9X13 Vermeer horizontal directional drill rig. You will have experience performing all duties of a Horizontal Directional Bore Operator/Locator and will have advanced skills in horizontal directional boring. As the lead, you will supervise employees on how to operate a horizontal directional bore machine and locating box. Your overall goal is to strive for optimal production while working safely and performing quality work.
Qualifications and Experience
Required:
  • 2 + years of verifiable directional bore experience.
  • CDL Class A/B with Tanker Endorsement
  • Experience with different size Vermeer or Ditch Witch units.
  • Practical experience of underground construction for gas. City, county and state clearance code. knowledge and related.
  • Practical working experience of underground construction
  • Willing to travel.

Desired
  • Knowledge of utility industry safety practices and requirements.
  • Knowledge of utility depths and placement practices and procedures.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to effectively supervise a 2 man crew independently.
  • Ability to read and understand maps, drawings and diagrams for project build process.
  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Ability to handle stressful situations and come up with solutions in a timely manner.
  • Ability to use a computer/smart phone/tablet.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.

Required: Successful candidates must pass the following pre-employment requirements prior to beginning employment: drug screen and background check. Background checks include, but are not limited to, Social Security Verification, Prior Employment Verification, Motor Vehicle Records, Personal and Professional References, Criminal History.
Education
High School Diploma or GED equivalent
EEO Statement:
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law.
Third Party Agency Notice:
Primoris will not accept any unsolicited resumes from any third-party recruiting agencies either domestic of international. Primoris nor its subsidiaries will be responsible for any fees from the use of any unsolicited resumes either through our ATS or via electronic mail systems from any agency representative or agency consultant unless your firm is an approved vendor partner with a current executed agreement.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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