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Horizontal Drill Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$300 - $400/day

Drill Operator Department: Operations Employment Type: Contract Location: United States - Chicago ... Operate Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) machines for underground cable installation;

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Naples, FL · On-site

$250 - $300/day

Drill Operator Department: Operations Employment Type: Contract Location: United States - Naples ... Operate Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) machines for underground cable installation;

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Tampa, FL · On-site

$2K - $4K/wk

Drill Operator Department: Operations Employment Type: Contract Location: United States - Tampa, FL ... Operate Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) machines for underground cable installation;

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$300 - $350/day

Drill Operator Department: Operations Employment Type: Contract Location: United States - Portland ... Operate Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) machines for underground cable installation;

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$2K - $4K/wk

Drill Operator Department: Operations Employment Type: Contract Location: United States - Portland ... Operate Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) machines for underground cable installation;

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

$2K - $4K/wk

Drill Operator Department: Operations Employment Type: Contract Location: United States - Denver ... Operate Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) machines for underground cable installation;

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$2K - $4K/wk

Drill Operator Department: Operations Employment Type: Contract Location: United States - Vancouver ... Operate Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) machines for underground cable installation;

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Miami, FL · On-site

$2K - $4K/wk

Drill Operator Department: Operations Employment Type: Contract Location: United States - Miami, FL ... Operate Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) machines for underground cable installation;

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Seattle, WA · On-site

$2K - $4K/wk

Drill Operator Department: Operations Employment Type: Contract Location: United States - Seattle ... Operate Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) machines for underground cable installation;

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Seattle, WA · On-site

$300 - $350/day

Drill Operator Department: Operations Employment Type: Contract Location: United States - Seattle ... Operate Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) machines for underground cable installation;

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$300 - $400/day

Operate Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) machines for underground cable installation ... Proven experience operating heavy construction equipment, especially drilling and boring machinery;

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Fort Myers, FL · On-site

$250 - $300/day

Operate Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) machines for underground cable installation ... Proven experience operating heavy construction equipment, especially drilling and boring machinery;

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All JobsHorizontal Drill Operator Jobs

Horizontal Drill Operator information

See salary details

$13

$27

$51

How much do horizontal drill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for horizontal 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.

What are the common challenges faced by a Horizontal Drill Operator on a typical job site?

Horizontal Drill Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating unexpected underground obstacles, managing equipment malfunctions, and adapting to varying soil conditions. Effective communication with the project team is crucial to ensure accuracy and safety, especially when working near existing utilities. Additionally, operators must stay updated with safety protocols and equipment best practices, as the work environment can be fast-paced and physically demanding. Overcoming these challenges requires attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and a collaborative approach with crew members and supervisors.

What is the difference between Horizontal Drill Operator vs Vertical Drill Operator?

AspectHorizontal Drill OperatorVertical Drill Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, CDL often preferredOSHA safety training, CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentUnderground or surface drilling sites, often in oil & gas or constructionSurface drilling sites, such as water wells or mineral exploration
Industry UsageOil & gas, construction, utilitiesMining, water well drilling, geotechnical work

Horizontal Drill Operators and Vertical Drill Operators share similar certifications and safety requirements. However, their work environments differ: horizontal drillers operate in underground or surface sites focusing on directional drilling, while vertical drillers typically work on surface sites drilling straight down. Both roles are essential in industries like oil & gas, construction, and mining, with specific skills tailored to their drilling methods.

What does a Horizontal Drill Operator do?

A Horizontal Drill Operator is responsible for operating specialized machinery to drill horizontally beneath the ground’s surface. Their main job is to create underground pathways for utilities like water, gas, or communication lines without disturbing surface structures. They interpret blueprints, monitor equipment, ensure safety protocols, and perform routine maintenance on drilling devices. This role is vital for installing infrastructure in urban areas where traditional trenching would be disruptive.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Horizontal Drill Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Horizontal Drill Operator, you need a solid understanding of drilling techniques, equipment operation, and safety regulations, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with horizontal directional drilling (HDD) machinery, utility locating systems, and certifications like OSHA safety training are typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help operators navigate complex job sites and coordinate with crews. These competencies ensure safe, efficient drilling operations and help prevent costly errors or damages to underground utilities.
More about Horizontal Drill Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Horizontal Drill Operator jobs? Cities with the most Horizontal Drill Operator job openings:
What states have the most Horizontal Drill Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Horizontal Drill Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Horizontal Drill Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Horizontal Drill Operator jobs are:
Horizontal Drill Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Horizontal Drill Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,917 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Drill Operator

Utilities One

Chicago, IL • On-site

$300 - $400/day

Contractor

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Drill Operator
Department: Operations
Employment Type: Contract
Location: United States - Chicago, IL
Reporting To: Denis Mezer
Compensation: $300 - $400 / day
Description
Utilities One is seeking an experienced Drill Operator to join our team in the Indiana Region. This role is ideal for candidates with strong experience in Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) and underground utility installation, who are ready to work in a fast-paced environment and contribute to high-quality infrastructure projects across Florida.
Key Responsibilities
  • Perform preparatory work before drilling operations;
  • Operate Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) machines for underground cable installation;
  • Install underground utilities, including boring, trenching, and related tasks;
  • Operate and locate utilities using an appropriate locating system;
  • Remove and transfer poles, set and install new underground cables;
  • Ensure proper clearances and compliance with installation standards;
  • Maintain the safety of the public and protect underground utility facilities;
  • Analyze job sites and complete required paperwork and documentation;
  • Investigate company service complaints and perform necessary repairs;
  • Travel to job sites as needed and perform assigned tasks with high quality and professionalism;
  • Perform other duties as assigned to support successful project completion.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
  • At least 2 years of HDD/Drilling experience;
  • A valid CDL is preferred;
  • Proven experience operating heavy construction equipment, especially drilling and boring machinery;
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering plans and specifications;
  • Ability to sit, stand, bend, walk, and ride in vehicles for extended periods;
  • Willingness to work in all-weather environments and travel as needed.

Benefits
  • Competitive compensation;
  • Accommodation provided;
  • All equipment and tools provided;
  • Weekly payment;
  • Career advancement opportunities.

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