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Horizontal Drill Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Miami, FL

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

Dayton, OH

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

Mears Group, Inc.

DRILL OPERATOR

Henderson, CO · On-site

$36 - $38/hr

HORIZONTAL DIRECTIONAL DRILL OPERATOR We are looking to hire a Horizontal Directional Drill Operator in Henderson CO.. As a Driller, you will be responsible for operating the drilling equipment used ...

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

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

Salem, OR · On-site

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

Seattle, WA

$300 - $350/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

Salem, OR

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

Seattle, WA

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

Vancouver, WA

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

Tampa, FL

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;

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Denver, CO

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

$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

$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

$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

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$13

$27

$51

How much do horizontal drill operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 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 is it called when you drill sideways?

In the context of a horizontal drill operator, drilling sideways is called horizontal drilling or horizontal borehole drilling. This technique allows for underground access without disturbing the surface and is commonly used in oil, gas, and utility installations. It requires specialized equipment and skills to accurately steer the drill bit along a desired path.

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.

How much does a horizontal Driller make?

A horizontal drill operator typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with specialized equipment knowledge may earn higher wages, especially in high-demand construction or utility projects.

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.

Is horizontal drilling hard?

Horizontal drill operators need to have good technical skills, physical stamina, and the ability to operate specialized equipment. The job can be physically demanding and requires attention to detail to ensure accurate drilling, often in challenging environments. Proper training and safety certifications are important for success in this role.

How much do bore operators make?

Horizontal drill operators typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in using specialized equipment can earn higher wages and may receive additional benefits or overtime pay.
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

Miami, FL

Contractor

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Utilities One is seeking an experienced Drill Operator to join our team in the Florida 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.
  • 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.
  • At least 3 years of HDD/Drilling experience;
  • Valid Class A CDL required;
  • 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.
  • Competitive compensation;
  • Weekly payments (every Friday);
  • All equipment and tools provided;
  • Career advancement opportunities;
  • Weekly pay range varies depending on productivity (paid per foot).

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