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Per Diem Horizontal Directional Drilling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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.

Essel

Horizontal Direction Drilling Locator

Stockton, CA

$25.50 - $31.50/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for accurately locating underground utilities and guiding the horizontal directional drilling operations to ensure precise installation and avoid utility ...

Essel

Horizontal Direction Drilling Locator

Stockton, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $31.50/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for accurately locating underground utilities and guiding the horizontal directional drilling operations to ensure precise installation and avoid utility ...

Essel

Horizontal Direction Drilling Locator

Stockton, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $31.50/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for accurately locating underground utilities and guiding the horizontal directional drilling operations to ensure precise installation and avoid utility ...

2 Dams Inc

Be Seen First

Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) - Drill Operator (DW JT100)

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Travel per diem depending on jobsite location Company Description We are a proud veteran-owned and ... horizontal directional drilling. Built on the values of integrity, hard work, and commitment, we ...

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Per Diem Horizontal Directional Drilling information

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$26

$34

How much do per diem horizontal directional drilling jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for per diem horizontal directional drilling 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 per diem horizontal directional drilling?

A Per Diem Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) job involves operating specialized drilling equipment to install underground pipes, conduits, or cables along a predetermined path, often beneath obstacles like roads or rivers. The term 'per diem' means that workers are typically paid a daily allowance for expenses, in addition to their wages, often because the work requires travel or temporary relocation. HDD technicians are responsible for setting up drills, monitoring drilling progress, and ensuring safety and accuracy throughout the project. This role is essential in utility installation, telecommunications, and construction projects where traditional trenching is impractical.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a per diem horizontal directional drilling operator?

To thrive as a Per Diem Horizontal Directional Drilling Operator, you need expertise in operating drilling machinery, understanding drilling plans, and knowledge of underground utility systems, usually backed by relevant field experience or technical training. Familiarity with locator tools, drilling rigs, and safety certifications like OSHA are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for this position. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and accurate drilling operations, minimizing risks and costly errors on job sites.

What are the typical challenges faced by a per diem horizontal directional drilling professional, and how can they be addressed?

Per Diem HDD professionals often encounter challenges such as adapting quickly to new job sites, working with unfamiliar teams, and managing varying soil conditions or underground obstacles. To address these challenges, it's important to have strong problem-solving skills, maintain clear communication with site supervisors and crews, and stay updated on the latest HDD equipment and safety practices. Flexibility and a proactive approach to learning site-specific protocols also help ensure successful project outcomes and smooth collaboration with different teams.

What is the difference between Per Diem Horizontal Directional Drilling vs Horizontal Directional Drilling Operator?

AspectPer Diem Horizontal Directional DrillingHorizontal Directional Drilling Operator
CredentialsTypically requires HDD certification and safety trainingRequires HDD certification, safety training, and equipment operation skills
Work EnvironmentField-based, outdoor construction sites, often remoteField-based, outdoor construction sites, often remote
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by contractors for temporary project staffingEmployed directly by companies or contractors for HDD projects

Both roles involve operating horizontal directional drilling equipment, requiring similar certifications and working in outdoor construction environments. The main difference is that Per Diem HDD workers are often temporary or contract-based, while HDD Operators may be full-time employees. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right job or staffing option in the HDD industry.

More about Per Diem Horizontal Directional Drilling jobs

What cities are hiring for Per Diem Horizontal Directional Drilling jobs?

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What are the most commonly searched types of Horizontal Directional Drilling jobs?

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What states have the most Per Diem Horizontal Directional Drilling jobs?

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The top searched job categories for Per Diem Horizontal Directional Drilling jobs are:

Per Diem Horizontal Directional Drilling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Per Diem Horizontal Directional Drilling job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,296 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Horizontal Directional Drilling Operator / Locator

Advanced Directional Drilling Solutions

Daytona Beach, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Job description


Advanced Directional Drilling, Inc. is seeking a reliable, honest, hard-working Horizontal Drilling Operator / Locator for the East Coast Florida area! Must possess good problem- solving skills and be adaptable. Horizontal Drilling Operator / Locators are responsible for running a variety of tasks associated with underground construction. Will operate heavy equipment and tools associated with construction activities. Must maintain and operate equipment per safety and company guidelines.
The primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Operator/Driller Responsibilities:

  • Operate horizontal directional drill rig (HDD)
  • Operate excavation equipment (backhoe, trencher, hydro-vac, etc.)
  • Operate and maintain vehicles and equipment safely at all times
  • Report vehicle and equipment maintenance requirements to construction manager
  • Repair damaged equipment as directed by the project superintendent
  • Document deficiencies in safety practices/equipment to business unit lead
  • Must be able to communicate with others to convey information effectively.
  • Maintain positive public relations (interact with the customer/public in a courteous manner)
Locator Responsibilities:

  • Walk and confirm bore path, spot utilities
  • Perform job site analysis (JSA) including completion of paperwork
  • Ensure there are proper clearances to install the product per standards and company policies
  • Record the depth of the tool head as required
  • Ensure the drill head is in a good position at the exit pit to connect the product
  • Conducts foreman responsibilities, such as overseeing laborers and/or crew member's work and monitors productivity
  • Oversee laborers and/or crew member’s work and monitor time usage is productive
  • Able to follow and complete tasks assigned by the business unit lead
  • Make sure job site is Safe for employee’s and pedestrians
  • Ensure one call tickets are current
  • Able to read specs and prints
Qualifications:

  • Preferred 2+ years of related experience as a horizontal directional drill rig operator and backhoe operator. Ability to develop bore path plan to ensure all utilities located
  • Preferred 1+ year experience with Falcon F5 Locator;
  • Various related equipment operating experience required, such as mini excavator, Vac Truck, etc
  • Inspect / maintain job equipment and tools
  • Have a clean driving record/; has a CDL license;
  • Must be able to travel thru out Florida with some overnight stay as necessary
  • Basic Computer Skills- e-mail, photo editing, maintain bore logs, red-line drawings, PDF Prints, Digi-mark Software, and basic Excel
Job Type: Full-time

Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $20.00 - $35.00 per hour
Benefits:
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Vision insurance
Schedule:
  • 10 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person