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Horizontal Drilling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Jacqueline Construction

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Senior Staff Accountant

Wylie, TX · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

We currently provide horizontal drilling, aerial, splicing and general construction services in Texas, Oklahoma, Georgia, Arizona and Florida.

MDB Group

Drill Operator (Construction)

Lake George, NY · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

About The Opportunity Are you an experienced heavy equipment operator with experience with vertical and/or horizontal drilling? Do you have a high mechanical aptitude and the desire to advance within ...

MDB Group

Drill Operator (Construction)

Burlington, VT · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

About The Opportunity Are you an experienced heavy equipment operator with experience with vertical and/or horizontal drilling? Do you have a high mechanical aptitude and the desire to advance within ...

MDB Group

Drill Operator (Quarry)

Syracuse, NY · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

About The Opportunity Are you an experienced heavy equipment operator with experience with vertical and/or horizontal drilling? Do you have a high mechanical aptitude and the desire to advance within ...

MDB Group

Drill Operator (Quarry)

Richmond, VT · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

About The Opportunity Are you an experienced heavy equipment operator with experience with vertical and/or horizontal drilling? Do you have a high mechanical aptitude and the desire to advance within ...

MDB Group

Drill Operator (Quarry)

Albany, NY · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

About The Opportunity Are you an experienced heavy equipment operator with experience with vertical and/or horizontal drilling? Do you have a high mechanical aptitude and the desire to advance within ...

MDB Group

Drill Operator (Construction)

Rutland, VT · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

About The Opportunity Are you an experienced heavy equipment operator with experience with vertical and/or horizontal drilling? Do you have a high mechanical aptitude and the desire to advance within ...

MDB Group

Drill Operator (Quarry)

Watertown, NY · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

About The Opportunity Are you an experienced heavy equipment operator with experience with vertical and/or horizontal drilling? Do you have a high mechanical aptitude and the desire to advance within ...

MDB Group

Drill Operator (Construction)

New Haven, VT · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

About The Opportunity Are you an experienced heavy equipment operator with experience with vertical and/or horizontal drilling? Do you have a high mechanical aptitude and the desire to advance within ...

MDB Group

Drill Operator (Quarry)

Poughkeepsie, NY · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

About The Opportunity Are you an experienced heavy equipment operator with experience with vertical and/or horizontal drilling? Do you have a high mechanical aptitude and the desire to advance within ...

TAK Broadband

ND · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

In this role you will oversee all aspects of horizontal directional drilling operations, leading crews through the safe and efficient installation of underground telecommunications infrastructure.

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Horizontal Drilling information

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$14

$27

$43

How much do horizontal drilling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for horizontal drilling in the United States is $27.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a horizontal drilling operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Horizontal Drilling Operator, you generally need experience in drilling operations, knowledge of geotechnical principles, and a high school diploma or relevant technical certification. Familiarity with horizontal directional drilling (HDD) rigs, tracking systems, and safety protocols is critical, with many employers preferring candidates certified in OSHA safety standards. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient drilling operations and minimize costly errors in complex underground environments.

Is horizontal drilling a good career?

Horizontal drilling is a specialized skill in the oil and gas industry that offers steady employment and competitive wages. It requires technical knowledge, physical stamina, and often certification, with job opportunities available in energy-producing regions. The career can be stable but depends on industry demand and market conditions.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in horizontal drilling, and how can they be addressed?

Horizontal drilling professionals often encounter challenges such as maintaining wellbore stability, managing drilling fluid losses, and accurately steering the drill bit along planned trajectories. These issues can be addressed through thorough pre-drill planning, using advanced downhole monitoring technology, and collaborating closely with geologists and engineers to adjust drilling parameters in real time. Working as part of a multidisciplinary team helps ensure that technical problems are quickly identified and resolved, contributing to the safe and efficient completion of projects.

How much does a horizontal driller make?

Horizontal drillers typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled drillers with specialized tools and safety training can earn higher wages, especially in high-demand regions or with overtime work.

What is horizontal drilling?

Horizontal drilling is a technique used in the oil and gas industry to drill wells that start vertically and then turn horizontally to access resources spread out in layers underground. This method allows companies to reach more of the resource with fewer surface disruptions, making operations more efficient and environmentally friendly. Horizontal drilling is commonly used in combination with hydraulic fracturing to extract oil and natural gas from shale formations. It has revolutionized the industry by increasing production rates and making previously inaccessible reserves recoverable.

What is the difference between Horizontal Drilling vs Vertical Drilling?

AspectHorizontal DrillingVertical Drilling
CredentialsDrilling certifications, OSHA safety trainingSame as horizontal, often includes additional geotechnical knowledge
Work EnvironmentUnderground or at surface, often in oil & gas or utilitiesPrimarily underground or at surface, used in oil, gas, and mineral extraction
Industry UsageOil & gas, utilities, geothermalOil & gas, mineral exploration, water wells

Horizontal Drilling and Vertical Drilling share similar credentials and work environments, especially in the oil and gas industry. The main difference lies in the drilling direction: horizontal drilling extends laterally to access more resources, while vertical drilling goes straight down. Both roles require specialized skills and certifications, but horizontal drilling often involves more complex equipment and techniques.

How do I become a horizontal driller?

To become a horizontal driller, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or an apprenticeship to learn drilling techniques and safety procedures. Many employers prefer candidates with experience in construction or heavy equipment operation, and obtaining certifications such as OSHA safety training can improve job prospects.
More about Horizontal Drilling jobs
What cities are hiring for Horizontal Drilling jobs? Cities with the most Horizontal Drilling job openings:
What states have the most Horizontal Drilling jobs? States with the most job openings for Horizontal Drilling jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Horizontal Drilling jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Horizontal Drilling jobs are:
Horizontal Drilling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Horizontal Drilling job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,259 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Longhorn Energy and Transportation LLC

North Bergen, NJ • On-site

$25 - $33.25/hr

Other

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Heavy Equipment Operator

Join our dynamic construction team as a Heavy Equipment Operator specializing in excavator operation! In this vital role, you will be the driving force behind efficient and safe operation of heavy machinery on diverse construction sites. Your expertise will help shape infrastructure projects, ensuring they are completed on time and to the highest standards. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and take pride in precision and safety, this opportunity is perfect for you to showcase your skills and grow your career.

Responsibilities:

  • Operate excavators and other heavy equipment such as dozers, loaders, backhoes with precision and safety.
  • Perform routine inspections and maintenance checks on machinery to ensure optimal performance.
  • Assist with site preparation, grading, trenching, and material handling to support construction activities.
  • Follow all safety protocols and procedures to maintain a secure work environment for yourself and team members.
  • Collaborate with project managers and crew members to execute construction plans efficiently.
  • Use mechanical knowledge to troubleshoot equipment issues promptly and effectively.
  • Support other equipment operations as needed, including horizontal drilling and paving tasks.

Qualifications:

  • Proven experience operating excavators in a construction setting, with a strong understanding of heavy equipment operation.
  • Mechanical knowledge related to construction machinery such as Caterpillar equipment or similar brands.
  • Valid commercial driver's license with experience driving heavy vehicles like dump trucks or water trucks.
  • Familiarity with construction site safety standards and procedures.
  • Ability to perform physically demanding tasks while maintaining attention to detail.
  • Experience with dozer, loader, backhoe, grader operation, and horizontal drilling is highly desirable.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a team environment.

Embark on a rewarding career where your skills make a tangible impact! We are committed to providing a safe, inclusive workplace that values your expertise and supports your professional development in the heavy equipment operation field.

Apply