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Lead Directional Driller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Thayer Power and Communication

Directional Driller

Tampa, FL · On-site

$23 - $28.25/hr

The Directional Driller is responsible for executing the bore plan safely, accurately, and ... Lead and direct the work of laborers, locators, and equipment operators on the drill crew; provide ...

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

$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.

Aecon Group, Inc.

Directional Driller

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$23.50 - $29/hr

We lead by example, with humility and courage. * Accountability. We're passionate about delivering ... Aecon Utilities Inc. has an opportunity for a Directional Driller, in our New Mexico project ...

Aecon Group Inc.

Directional Driller

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$23.50 - $29/hr

We lead by example, with humility and courage. * Accountability. We're passionate about delivering ... Aecon Utilities Inc. has an opportunity for a Directional Driller, in our New Mexico project ...

Congruex

Directional Drill Foreman

Columbus, OH · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Lead directional drilling and locating operations to support underground telecommunications and utility construction projects. * Operate directional drilling equipment and other construction ...

FindTalent

Directional Drilling Supervisor

Richmond, VA

$24 - $29.75/hr

Lead a field crew, ensuring efficient and safe execution of projects. * Operate and maintain directional drilling equipment, ensuring optimal performance. * Review and implement project plans ...

FindTalent

Directional Drill Foreman

Columbus, OH

$23.50 - $29/hr

Supervise and lead a directional drilling crew in the installation of underground utilities * Operate and maintain directional drilling equipment efficiently and safely * Coordinate with project ...

FindTalent

Directional Drill Foreman

Richmond, VA

$24 - $29.75/hr

Supervise and lead a directional drilling crew in the installation of underground utilities * Operate and maintain directional drilling equipment efficiently and safely * Coordinate with project ...

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Lead Directional Driller information

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$13

$26

$34

How much do lead directional driller jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead directional driller 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 the difference between Lead Directional Driller vs Directional Driller?

AspectLead Directional DrillerDirectional Driller
CertificationsOSHA, Well Control, and industry-specific certificationsOSHA, Well Control, and industry-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentSupervises drilling crews, manages operations, and ensures safetyOperates drilling equipment, assists in directional drilling tasks
Employer & Industry UsageOil & gas, geothermal, and mining industriesOil & gas, geothermal, and mining industries

The main difference is that the Lead Directional Driller oversees the entire directional drilling operation, manages the crew, and ensures safety compliance. The Directional Driller primarily operates and assists with the drilling equipment. Both roles require similar certifications and work in the same industry environments, but the Lead Directional Driller has additional supervisory responsibilities.

What is a Lead Directional Driller?

A Lead Directional Driller is a specialized professional in the oil and gas industry responsible for planning, steering, and overseeing the drilling of wells along predetermined trajectories. They use advanced technology and real-time data to guide drilling equipment, ensuring that wells reach specific underground targets efficiently and safely. In addition to technical drilling tasks, they often supervise crews, ensure compliance with safety regulations, and provide expertise in overcoming drilling challenges. Their role is critical in maximizing resource extraction while minimizing operational risks and costs.

What are some common challenges faced by Lead Directional Drillers, and how can they be effectively managed on the job?

Lead Directional Drillers often encounter challenges such as unexpected geological formations, equipment malfunctions, and maintaining precise wellbore trajectory. Effective management involves close collaboration with geologists and drilling engineers, proactive use of real-time data, and strong leadership skills to coordinate the drilling crew. Staying updated on the latest drilling technologies and fostering open communication within the team are also crucial for resolving issues quickly and minimizing downtime.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead Directional Driller, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Directional Driller, you need expertise in drilling engineering, wellbore positioning, and a solid understanding of geology, typically supported by relevant technical training or a degree in engineering or earth sciences. Proficiency with directional drilling tools, measurement-while-drilling (MWD) systems, and drilling simulation software is essential. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are critical soft skills for managing crews and responding to on-site challenges. These skills and qualities are vital for optimizing well performance, ensuring operational safety, and leading teams in complex drilling environments.
More about Lead Directional Driller jobs
What job categories do people searching Lead Directional Driller jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Directional Driller jobs are:
Lead Directional Driller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Directional Driller job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 64% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 3% Summer. Highlights an 76% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,296 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Directional Driller

Thayer Power and Communication

Tampa, FL • On-site

$23 - $28.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
Dynetek Solutions is seeking an experienced Directional Driller to operate horizontal directional drilling (HDD) equipment for the installation of underground electrical conduit, duct bank, and related utility infrastructure throughout the Tampa, FL region. The Directional Driller is responsible for executing the bore plan safely, accurately, and efficiently - coordinating with locators, laborers, and project leadership to deliver high-quality underground installations in compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations as well as company safety standards.
This is a key field leadership role for a candidate who takes pride in craftsmanship, safety, and developing the crew around them.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Operate horizontal/directional drilling rigs (mini, midi, and/or maxi rigs as assigned) to install underground electrical conduit, fiber, and related utilities along the predetermined bore path.
  • Execute pilot bores, back-reaming, and pullback operations in accordance with engineered drawings, bore plans, and project specifications.
  • Coordinate continuously with the locator/steering hand to maintain proper depth, alignment, and grade throughout the bore.
  • Review utility locate tickets (Sunshine 811) and confirm that all existing utilities have been marked and potholed/daylighted prior to drilling.
  • Set up, tear down, and secure the drill site, including traffic control, pedestrian protection, and environmental containment of drilling fluids.
  • Mix, monitor, and manage drilling fluids (mud) appropriate to Florida soil conditions (sand, clay, limestone) to ensure bore integrity and minimize the risk of inadvertent returns (frac-outs).
  • Troubleshoot downhole issues such as bit changes, transmitter/MWD failures, motor performance, and obstructions.
  • Perform daily pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the drill rig, support trucks, and trailers; complete required DOT paperwork and bore logs.
  • Conduct routine maintenance (greasing, fluid checks, minor repairs) on drilling equipment and report mechanical issues promptly.
  • Lead and direct the work of laborers, locators, and equipment operators on the drill crew; provide on-the-job training and mentorship.
  • Enforce compliance with OSHA standards, NESC (National Electrical Safety Code) guidelines, MOT (Maintenance of Traffic) requirements, and Dynetek safety policies, including proper PPE use at all times.
  • Communicate daily with the Superintendent or Foreman regarding production, equipment status, and site conditions; submit required paperwork (bore logs, timesheets, vehicle/equipment reports).
  • Perform laborer duties (potholing, conduit/duct placement, vault setting, site cleanup) when drilling is not active.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe job site at all times.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications
  • Experience: Minimum 3 years of verifiable horizontal directional drilling experience, preferably installing electrical conduit or underground utilities.
  • Education: High school diploma or GED preferred.
  • Driver's License: Valid Class A CDL preferred (Class B minimum) with a clean MVR; tanker endorsement is a plus.
  • Demonstrated ability to read and interpret construction drawings, bore plans, utility maps, and locate marks.
  • Working knowledge of Florida soil conditions and best practices for HDD in mixed sand/clay/limestone environments.
  • Strong understanding of underground utility depths, separation requirements, and Florida "Call Before You Dig" / Sunshine 811 procedures.
  • Familiarity with locating equipment (DigiTrak, Subsite, or equivalent walkover systems).
  • Proficient with common HDD equipment manufacturers (Vermeer, Ditch Witch, American Augers, or similar).
  • Ability to lead a small crew, communicate clearly, and make sound decisions under pressure.
  • Must pass a pre-employment drug screen, background check, and DOT physical.
  • Authorized to work in the United States.

Preferred Qualifications
  • OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification.
  • FDOT MOT (Maintenance of Traffic) Intermediate certification.
  • Competent Person training for excavation and trenching.
  • First Aid / CPR certification.
  • Prior experience working on electrical infrastructure projects (utility, substation, transmission, or distribution).
  • Bilingual English/Spanish.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
  • Excellent hand-eye coordination, manual dexterity, and control precision.
  • Ability to work independently while contributing to a team environment.
  • Effective verbal communication with crew members, supervisors, inspectors, and the public.
  • Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
  • Willingness to learn new equipment and pursue ongoing certifications.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment
  • Must be able to stand, walk, bend, kneel, stoop, crouch, and climb throughout the workday.
  • Must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 lbs, and occasionally up to 80 lbs.
  • Must be able to climb on/off equipment, including vertical ladders up to 10 feet.
  • Vision (with or without corrective lenses) adequate to operate equipment and read instruments/locates.
  • Work is performed outdoors in all weather conditions typical of the Tampa Bay region, including high heat, humidity, rain, and occasional storms.
  • Exposure to moving mechanical parts, vibration, noise, dust, drilling fluids, and active traffic.
  • Schedule may include 10+ hour days, occasional Saturdays, and storm-response or emergency-restoration work.

Compensation and Benefits
  • Pay Range: Competitive hourly rate commensurate with experience (market range for the Tampa Bay region: approximately $25.00 - $35.00/hour, with lead drillers earning above this range).
  • Overtime eligible.
  • Per diem provided for out-of-town travel.
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Paid time off and paid holidays.
  • 401(k) with company match.
  • Company-provided tools, PPE, and training.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Dynetek Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law. Dynetek Solutions is a drug-free workplace; all candidates must successfully complete a pre-employment drug screen and background check.

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