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Horizontal Directional Drilling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Essel

Horizontal Directional Driller

Manassas, VA · On-site

$24.25 - $30/hr

Lead and operate horizontal directional drilling equipment for installation of pipelines, cables, and conduits. * Interpret blueprints and drilling plans to accurately execute drilling paths.

Essel

Horizontal Directional Driller

Manassas, VA · On-site

$24.25 - $30/hr

Lead and operate horizontal directional drilling equipment for installation of pipelines, cables, and conduits. * Interpret blueprints and drilling plans to accurately execute drilling paths.

Essel

Horizontal Directional Driller

Manassas, VA · On-site

$24.25 - $30/hr

Lead and operate horizontal directional drilling equipment for installation of pipelines, cables, and conduits. * Interpret blueprints and drilling plans to accurately execute drilling paths.

Essel

Horizontal Direction Drilling Locator

Stockton, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $31.50/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for accurately locating underground utilities and guiding the horizontal directional drilling operations to ensure precise installation and avoid utility ...

Essel

Horizontal Direction Drilling Locator

Stockton, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $31.50/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for accurately locating underground utilities and guiding the horizontal directional drilling operations to ensure precise installation and avoid utility ...

Essel

Horizontal Direction Drilling Locator

Stockton, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $31.50/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for accurately locating underground utilities and guiding the horizontal directional drilling operations to ensure precise installation and avoid utility ...

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Horizontal Directional Drilling information

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$34

How much do horizontal directional drilling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for horizontal directional drilling 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 drilling?

A Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) job involves operating specialized drilling equipment to install underground utilities such as pipelines, fiber optic cables, and conduits without traditional trenching. HDD professionals use precision techniques to guide drill bits along curved paths, minimizing surface disruption. The job requires knowledge of soil conditions, drill rig operation, and safety protocols. It is commonly used in urban areas, environmentally sensitive locations, and under rivers or roads where open excavation is not feasible.

What are typical daily responsibilities for someone working in horizontal directional drilling?

A typical day in Horizontal Directional Drilling involves setting up and operating drilling equipment, monitoring drilling progress, and adjusting as needed to navigate underground obstacles. You’ll often collaborate with utility locators, supervisors, and crew members to ensure the project meets safety and quality standards. Additional tasks can include preparing drill fluid, maintaining equipment, and recording drilling data. Teamwork and clear communication are key, as you must coordinate with others in sometimes challenging weather or terrain conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in horizontal directional drilling, and why are they important?

To thrive in Horizontal Directional Drilling, you need strong mechanical aptitude, knowledge of underground utility construction, and experience with drilling equipment, often supported by relevant safety certifications such as OSHA or operator training. Proficiency with specialized tools like drill rigs, locating devices, and mud mixing systems is critical for safe and precise drilling. Problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication are valuable soft skills that help navigate complex job sites and coordinate with utility crews. These competencies are essential to ensure projects are completed efficiently, safely, and in compliance with industry standards.

How do I become a horizontal directional driller?

To become a horizontal directional driller, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or an apprenticeship to learn drilling techniques and equipment operation. Some employers prefer candidates with experience in construction or underground utilities, and obtaining certifications such as OSHA safety training can improve job prospects.
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Horizontal Directional Drilling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Horizontal Directional Drilling job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, and 95% Full Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,296 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Horizontal Directional Drilling Operator / Locator

Daytona Beach, FL • On-site

Advanced Directional Drilling Solutions
See more jobs at Advanced Directional Drilling Solutionsexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Health insurance

Job description

Advanced Directional Drilling, Inc. is seeking a reliable, honest, hard-working Horizontal Drilling Operator / Locator for the East Coast Florida area! Must possess good problem- solving skills and be adaptable. Horizontal Drilling Operator / Locators are responsible for running a variety of tasks associated with underground construction. Will operate heavy equipment and tools associated with construction activities. Must maintain and operate equipment per safety and company guidelines.
The primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Operator/Driller Responsibilities:

  • Operate horizontal directional drill rig (HDD)
  • Operate excavation equipment (backhoe, trencher, hydro-vac, etc.)
  • Operate and maintain vehicles and equipment safely at all times
  • Report vehicle and equipment maintenance requirements to construction manager
  • Repair damaged equipment as directed by the project superintendent
  • Document deficiencies in safety practices/equipment to business unit lead
  • Must be able to communicate with others to convey information effectively.
  • Maintain positive public relations (interact with the customer/public in a courteous manner)
Locator Responsibilities:

  • Walk and confirm bore path, spot utilities
  • Perform job site analysis (JSA) including completion of paperwork
  • Ensure there are proper clearances to install the product per standards and company policies
  • Record the depth of the tool head as required
  • Ensure the drill head is in a good position at the exit pit to connect the product
  • Conducts foreman responsibilities, such as overseeing laborers and/or crew member's work and monitors productivity
  • Oversee laborers and/or crew member’s work and monitor time usage is productive
  • Able to follow and complete tasks assigned by the business unit lead
  • Make sure job site is Safe for employee’s and pedestrians
  • Ensure one call tickets are current
  • Able to read specs and prints
Qualifications:

  • Preferred 2+ years of related experience as a horizontal directional drill rig operator and backhoe operator. Ability to develop bore path plan to ensure all utilities located
  • Preferred 1+ year experience with Falcon F5 Locator;
  • Various related equipment operating experience required, such as mini excavator, Vac Truck, etc
  • Inspect / maintain job equipment and tools
  • Have a clean driving record/; has a CDL license;
  • Must be able to travel thru out Florida with some overnight stay as necessary
  • Basic Computer Skills- e-mail, photo editing, maintain bore logs, red-line drawings, PDF Prints, Digi-mark Software, and basic Excel
Job Type: Full-time

Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $20.00 - $35.00 per hour
Benefits:
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Vision insurance
Schedule:
  • 10 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person