1

Lead Directional Driller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Directional Drill Foreman

Tampa, FL · On-site

$23 - $28.25/hr

Duties, Responsibilities & Other This position is for a directional drill foreman with a minimum of ... Lead and direct 4-person crew to safely complete projects. * Complete legible bore logs and field ...

Directional Drill Foreman

Tampa, FL · On-site

$23 - $28.25/hr

This position is for a directional drill foreman with a minimum of 6 years of underground ... Lead and direct 4-person crew to safely complete projects. * Complete legible bore logs and field ...

Directional Drill Foreman

Tampa, FL · On-site

$23 - $28.25/hr

Duties, Responsibilities & Other This position is for a directional drill foreman with a minimum of ... Lead and direct 4-person crew to safely complete projects. * Complete legible bore logs and field ...

HDD Operator (Driller)

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$24 - $29.50/hr

Operate Horizontal Directional Drill * Assist in potholing and remediation. * Assist with setting hand holes and completing tie ins. * Drive equipment to job site * Confirms with locator/lead the ...

Showing results 41-60

Lead Directional Driller information

See salary details

$13

$26

$34

How much do lead directional driller jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 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 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead directional driller?

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.

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 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.

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:

Infographic showing various Lead Directional Driller job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,296 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Directional Drill Operator/Locator - MN/WI Travel

MasTec Communications Group

Hugo, MN • On-site

$29 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


MasTec rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 156 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 80 rated construction


Job description

Overview

At MasTec Communications Group we build for the future. Yours and ours.  

As a Directional Drill Operator/Locator, you will develop new skills, work in a safety-minded environment, and join us in expanding technology for a better community. Join the MasTec family and help us provide the highest level of quality service to our customers and communities while maintaining our commitment to safety!


Responsibilities

As a Directional Drill Operator/Locator, you are responsible for operating horizontal/directional drill rigs, locating equipment, and product support equipment. You believe in doing the job right. Being the best. And you’re up for the challenge.  

In addition, you will: 

  • Operate Horizontal Directional Drill for installation of underground telecommunications cable conduit, including fiber optic cable
  • Ensure the safety of the public and other utilities' underground facilities 
  • Perform all duties according to prescribed safety procedures and use appropriate safety equipment 
  • Set up and clean up work sites, including traffic and pedestrian control
  • Read utility locates and coordinate the day lighting of these facilities
  • Ensure all applicable permits and locates are complete and on-site
  • Inspect the work that is in progress to ensure that the workmanship conforms to specifications
  • Operate construction equipment to facilitate alignment, movement, and adjustment of machinery to conform to grade specifications
  • Level earth to final grade specifications
  • Operate vehicles and equipment operations from trucks to other equipment as directed and certified
  • Perform proper maintenance by greasing, oiling, and making minor repairs on equipment
  • Lead teams in the field effectively as needed and directed by the supervisor 

Qualifications

About You: 

  • Safety is a part of your day-to-day 
  • You have a track record of completing work with a high level of quality 
  • You have a knack for figuring out hard problems and enjoy a hands-on approach to your work 
  • You are looking for long-term projects 
  • You enjoy getting your hands dirty with your team 
  • You have 3 years of Horizontal Directional Drill experience
  • You have a valid driver’s license
  • You have a CDL, or are willing and able to get a CDL within 90 days
  • Experienced with different-sized Vermeer or Ditch Witch units and various brands of locating equipment
  • Working experience in underground construction and Fiber builds
  • You have knowledge of City, County, and State clearance codes and related
  • You can read and understand maps, drawings, and diagrams for the project build process
  • You are willing to work outdoors in all types of weather and work overtime as required
  • You have 3+ years of HDD experience, with 1+ year in a lead or supervisory role
  • Open to travel M-F per diem (up to 50% within MN/WI and 50+ hours per week, depending on the weather)

Compensation of $29-$35 per hour, depending on licenses and the experience.

Hard work pays off. See what you’ll get for your effort: 

Financial Security 

  • 401(k) with company match 
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) 
  • Life insurance 
  • Short-term and Long-term disability 

Health and Wellness 

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance 
  • Dependent care and medical flexible spending accounts
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) 

Work/Life Balance 

  • Paid time off 
  • Paid holidays 
  • Family and medical leave 
  • Paid sick time

We meet your commitment with competitive pay and benefits. If this sounds like you, let’s talk. Build your career with MasTec! 

MasTec, Inc. is an equal employment opportunity employer. The Company's policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military status, or any other consideration made unlawful by applicable federal, state, or local laws. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants and employees based on any of these protected categories. It is also MasTec's policy to comply with all applicable state, federal and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions.

#MasTecJobs #MasTecCareers #BeSuccessfulWithUs #IAmMasTec #WeAreMasTec #MasTecFamily #MasTecCommunicationsGroup #MasTecCommunicationsCareers #HotJobs

Qualifications:

About You: 

  • Safety is a part of your day-to-day 
  • You have a track record of completing work with a high level of quality 
  • You have a knack for figuring out hard problems and enjoy a hands-on approach to your work 
  • You are looking for long-term projects 
  • You enjoy getting your hands dirty with your team 
  • You have 3 years of Horizontal Directional Drill experience
  • You have a valid driver’s license
  • You have a CDL, or are willing and able to get a CDL within 90 days
  • Experienced with different-sized Vermeer or Ditch Witch units and various brands of locating equipment
  • Working experience in underground construction and Fiber builds
  • You have knowledge of City, County, and State clearance codes and related
  • You can read and understand maps, drawings, and diagrams for the project build process
  • You are willing to work outdoors in all types of weather and work overtime as required
  • You have 3+ years of HDD experience, with 1+ year in a lead or supervisory role
  • Open to travel M-F per diem (up to 50% within MN/WI and 50+ hours per week, depending on the weather)

Compensation of $29-$35 per hour, depending on licenses and the experience.

Hard work pays off. See what you’ll get for your effort: 

Financial Security 

  • 401(k) with company match 
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) 
  • Life insurance 
  • Short-term and Long-term disability 

Health and Wellness 

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance 
  • Dependent care and medical flexible spending accounts
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) 

Work/Life Balance 

  • Paid time off 
  • Paid holidays 
  • Family and medical leave 
  • Paid sick time

We meet your commitment with competitive pay and benefits. If this sounds like you, let’s talk. Build your career with MasTec! 

MasTec, Inc. is an equal employment opportunity employer. The Company's policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military status, or any other consideration made unlawful by applicable federal, state, or local laws. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants and employees based on any of these protected categories. It is also MasTec's policy to comply with all applicable state, federal and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions.

#MasTecJobs #MasTecCareers #BeSuccessfulWithUs #IAmMasTec #WeAreMasTec #MasTecFamily #MasTecCommunicationsGroup #MasTecCommunicationsCareers #HotJobs

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What MasTec employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom