Mini Excavator Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) Locator

Company: Straight Line Directional Drilling & Geothermal, Inc.

Location: Hudsonville, MI (Work covers multiple local job sites)

Pay Rate: $28.00 - $35.00 per hour (Depending on Experience)

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

Schedule: Monday – Friday (10+ hours/day). Enjoy your weekends—NO Saturdays or Sundays required! Overtime available.

What We Offer (Compensation & Benefits):

At Straight Line, we take care of the people who take care of our clients. Your benefits package includes:

• Top Pay: $28.00 – $35.00/hr + Weekly Overtime (50+ hrs/wk = $80k–$105k+ yearly).
•  Annual Profit-Sharing Bonus: Share in the company’s success! Based on company profitability and individual performance, crew members typically earn an additional $5,000 – $10,000+ annually in profit-sharing bonuses.
•  Freezer Meat Perk: Free quarter-beef + 1 whole processed pig every year—processed, packaged, and ready for your freezer!
•  Home Every Night: 100% local work in West Michigan (rare travel 4–6 nights/year max).
• ️ Guaranteed Weekends Off: Work hard Monday–Friday, enjoy your Saturday & Sunday.
•  Full Benefits Package: Comprehensive Health Insurance + Paid Vacation & Holidays.
•  Retirement Savings: 401(k) program with Company Match.
•  Gear Allowance: Boot reimbursement program to keep you equipped and comfortable.

About Us:

Straight Line Directional Drilling & Geothermal, Inc. is a trusted, specialized contractor based in Hudsonville, MI. We excel in horizontal directional drilling and closed-loop geothermal installations. From installing water/sanitary mains, storm lines, and electrical/fiber sleeves to setting up cutting-edge geothermal loop fields for residential and commercial applications, we pride ourselves on precision, safety, and a strong team culture.

Our fleet features top-tier equipment including Ditch Witch JT9, JT20, and JT40 rigs, utilizing both Subsite and DCI locate systems. If you are looking for a company where your hard work is valued, your weekends are respected, and the career growth is real, we want you on our team.

Position Overview:

We are seeking an experienced HDD Locator to join our tight-knit crew. In this pivotal role, you will be the eyes and ears of the drilling operation, utilizing advanced locating systems to guide the drill head safely and efficiently. This is a dynamic, hands-on role that blends advanced locating technology with heavy equipment operation (such as mini excavators and vacuum trailers) and essential ground support.

What You’ll Do (Key Responsibilities):

• Locating & Tracking: Utilize Subsite and DCI locating systems to accurately track and navigate the drill head, maintaining constant communication with the drill operator to ensure precise installations.
• Equipment Operation: Safely set up and operate HDD rigs, mini excavators, and vacuum trailers.
• Site Preparation: Collaborate with the crew to prepare job sites, including deploying traffic control cones and road signage, setting up the drill, vacuum systems, and mud-mixing systems.
• Utility Spotting: Visually verify and pothole/spot existing underground utilities to be crossed during the boring process to ensure zero damage.
• Fluid Management: Analyze ground conditions and mix drilling mud with the correct additives to maintain borehole integrity for smooth product pull-back.
• Maintenance & Care: Perform routine minor repairs and preventative maintenance on equipment. Keep company trucks and equipment clean, organized, and presentable.
• Cross-Training Support: Work alongside our geothermal installation crews as needed.
• Safety First: Maintain a sharp focus on safety, look out for your crew members, and immediately report any unsafe conditions to the foreman.

What We Are Looking For (Qualifications):

• Experience: Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) experience is Preferred but we will train the right candidate.
• Licensing: A valid Class A CDL and standard Driver’s License are required.
• Safety Compliance: Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screening and participate in ongoing random drug testing in accordance with DOT regulations.
• Physical Capability: Ability to lift heavy objects, stand, walk, and work for extended periods in diverse outdoor weather and field conditions.
• Mindset: A self-motivated team player who anticipates the next step to keep the job site running efficiently.
• Travel: Nearly 100% local to West Michigan. Rare travel required (only about 4–6 nights per year).

Ready to Join the Team?

If you have a strong work ethic, we want to talk to you.

Apply today to take the next step in your career with Straight Line Directional Drilling & Geothermal!

Learn more about us at: https://www.straightlineddg.com/