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Horizontal Drill Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Tampa, FL · On-site

$2.0K - $4.0K/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

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$350/day

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

347 Group, Inc.

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Directional Driller

Idaho Falls, ID · On-site

$28 - $38/hr

Horizontal drill operator experience required * Duct, cable, and vault construction experience required * Understanding of utility locating laws and compliance procedures * This position requires ...

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Miami, FL · On-site

Drill Operator Utilities One is seeking an experienced Drill Operator to join our team in the ... Operate Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) machines for underground cable installation;

347 Group, Inc.

Be Seen First

Directional Driller

Blackfoot, ID · On-site

$28 - $38/hr

Horizontal drill operator experience required * Duct, cable, and vault construction experience required * Understanding of utility locating laws and compliance procedures * This position requires ...

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

$2.0K - $4.0K/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

Portland, OR · On-site

$2.0K - $4.0K/wk

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

347 Group, Inc.

Be Seen First

Directional Driller

Rexburg, ID · On-site

$28 - $38/hr

Horizontal drill operator experience required * Duct, cable, and vault construction experience required * Understanding of utility locating laws and compliance procedures * This position requires ...

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

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$350/day

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

New

347 Group, Inc.

Be Seen First

Directional Driller

Boise, ID · On-site

$28 - $38/hr

Horizontal drill operator experience required * Duct, cable, and vault construction experience required * Understanding of utility locating laws and compliance procedures * This position requires ...

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Dayton, OH · On-site

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

New

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Naples, 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;

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Fort Wayne, 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

Naples, 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;

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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Showing results 21-40

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 Aug 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?

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.

Is directional drilling a good career?

Horizontal drill operators often work in the oil and gas industry, using specialized equipment to drill underground tunnels with precision. The career can be stable with opportunities for advancement, but it requires technical skills, physical endurance, and safety training. Job prospects depend on industry demand and regional activity levels.
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:
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Horizontal Drill Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Horizontal Drill Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,917 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Horizontal Directional Drill Operator / Laborer

Arrow Construction

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) Operator/Laborer

Job Summary: The Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of horizontal directional drilling equipment to install underground utilities such as conduit, water, sewer, gas, and fiber. This position requires knowledge of drilling operations, underground safety, and equipment maintenance to ensure projects are completed on time and according to company and OSHA safety standards.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Operate horizontal directional drilling equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Interpret bore plans, utility locates, and job site drawings.
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and routine maintenance.
  • Maintain bore paths and product installation to project specifications.
  • Communicate with locator and crew during drilling operations.
  • Set up, clean up, and restore job sites as directed.
  • Read and follow safety rules, job hazard analyses, and company policies.
  • Troubleshoot and make operational adjustments as needed.
  • Load and transport equipment to and from job sites when necessary.
  • Maintain accurate daily logs and production records.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
  • Minimum 3 years of experience operating HDD equipment.
  • Experience with utility installation and underground construction.
  • Working knowledge of job site safety and excavation laws.
  • Ability to read utility prints and bore profiles.
  • Valid driver’s license (CDL preferred if required).
  • Ability to pass drug screen and background check.
  • Strong attention to detail and safety.

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, and stand for extended periods.
  • Visual acuity to see color-coded utilities and markings.

Compensation & Benefits:
  • Competitive pay based on experience.
  • Health, dental, vision, and retirement plans.
  • Paid time off and holidays.
  • Overtime as applicable.

Equal Opportunity Statement:
We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status.
Please apply online @arrowcon.com or in person between 8:00 AM - 5 PM @ 1850 Diesel Dr, Sacramento, CA 95838 https://www.arrowcon.com/employment. (Employment Application is online)