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Horizontal Directional Drill Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Essel

Horizontal Directional Driller

Manassas, VA · On-site

$24.25 - $30/hr

Horizontal Directional Driller Company: Essel Job Overview: Essel is seeking a skilled Horizontal ... Identify and troubleshoot problems during drill operations to minimize delays. * Adhere to all ...

Essel

Horizontal Directional Driller

Manassas, VA · On-site

$24.25 - $30/hr

Horizontal Directional Driller Company: Essel Job Overview: Essel is seeking a skilled Horizontal ... Identify and troubleshoot problems during drill operations to minimize delays. * Adhere to all ...

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Horizontal Directional Drill information

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$13

$26

$34

How much do horizontal directional drill jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 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?

States with the most job openings for Horizontal Directional Drill jobs include:

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

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

Horizontal Directional Drill jobs near you
Infographic showing various Horizontal Directional Drill job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,296 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Horizontal Directional Driller

Manassas, VA • On-site

Essel
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Esselexternal

$24.25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Job Title:

Horizontal Directional Driller

Company:

Essel

Job Overview:

Essel is seeking a skilled Horizontal Directional Driller to lead drilling operations for underground utility installations. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience operating drilling equipment, interpreting site plans, and ensuring projects are completed safely, on time, and to spec.

Responsibilities:
  • Lead and operate horizontal directional drilling equipment for installation of pipelines, cables, and conduits.
  • Interpret blueprints and drilling plans to accurately execute drilling paths.
  • Perform routine inspections and maintenance of drilling machinery.
  • Supervise the drilling crew to ensure efficient and safe operations.
  • Identify and troubleshoot problems during drill operations to minimize delays.
  • Adhere to all safety regulations and company policies.
  • Coordinate with project managers and other stakeholders regarding project progress and requirements.
Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum of 5 years experience as a Horizontal Directional Driller or similar role.
  • Proficiency with horizontal directional drilling equipment and technologies.
  • Strong ability to read and understand technical drawings and site plans.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and teamwork skills.
  • Capable of working in physical and outdoor conditions.
  • Valid driver's license.

Requirements

  • Certification or formal training in horizontal directional drilling preferred.
  • Experience in utility construction or civil infrastructure projects is an asset.
  • Ability to work flexible hours including weekends and overtime as needed.
  • Commitment to workplace safety and compliance with industry standards.
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About Essel

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services and temporary help services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

San Francisco, CA, US

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