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Underground Directional Drilling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Directional Driller

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$20 - $40/hr

Operates directional boring machines to install pipelines, cables, and other utility lines underground. * Conduct pre-operational checks on directional drilling equipment and perform necessary ...

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 ...

Directional Driller

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$20 - $40/hr

Operates directional boring machines to install pipelines, cables, and other utility lines underground. * Conduct pre-operational checks on directional drilling equipment and perform necessary ...

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 ...

Directional Driller

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$20 - $40/hr

Operates directional boring machines to install pipelines, cables, and other utility lines underground. * Conduct pre-operational checks on directional drilling equipment and perform necessary ...

Directional Driller

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$29.25 - $36.25/hr

Directional Bore Operator Looking for a skilled Directional Bore Operator who will be responsible for operating and maintaining directional drilling equipment for the installation of underground ...

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 ...

Horizontal Directional Driller

Manassas, VA · On-site

$24.25 - $30/hr

... lead drilling operations for underground utility installations. The ideal candidate will have ... Lead and operate horizontal directional drilling equipment for installation of pipelines, cables ...

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 ...

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 ...

Directional Driller

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$29.25 - $36.25/hr

Directional Bore Operator Looking for a skilled Directional Bore Operator who will be responsible for operating and maintaining directional drilling equipment for the installation of underground ...

Showing results 21-40

Underground Directional Drilling information

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$13

$26

$34

How much do underground directional drilling jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground 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 underground directional drilling?

An Underground Directional Drilling job involves operating specialized equipment to install underground utilities, such as fiber optics, gas, water, or electrical lines, without the need for extensive trenching. Workers in this field use precise drilling techniques to navigate obstacles like roads, rivers, and buildings while ensuring minimal surface disruption. Responsibilities typically include equipment operation, site preparation, drill path planning, and maintenance of drilling tools. This job requires technical skills, physical endurance, and an understanding of safety protocols. It's commonly used in urban areas where traditional trenching isn’t feasible.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in underground directional drilling?

To thrive in Underground Directional Drilling, you need strong mechanical aptitude, understanding of underground utility systems, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional vocational training preferred. Familiarity with horizontal directional drilling (HDD) equipment, locating systems, and safety certifications such as OSHA are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills are crucial in this role. These competencies help ensure safe, efficient, and precise drilling operations in challenging and dynamic work environments.

What are common challenges faced in underground directional drilling, and how are they addressed?

One of the main challenges in underground directional drilling is accurately navigating and avoiding existing underground utilities and obstacles, which requires precise planning and constant monitoring. Operators often collaborate closely with utility locators, project managers, and local authorities to review site maps and use advanced locating equipment. Safety is another critical concern, managed through rigorous training, adherence to safety protocols, and regular equipment checks. Teamwork, clear communication, and adaptability are essential for managing unexpected situations and ensuring projects stay on track. By staying proactive and leveraging advanced technology, drilling crews can minimize risks and maintain high productivity.

More about Underground Directional Drilling jobs

What cities are hiring for Underground Directional Drilling jobs?

Cities with the most Underground Directional Drilling job openings:

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

The most popular types of Underground Directional Drilling jobs are:

What states have the most Underground Directional Drilling jobs?

States with the most job openings for Underground Directional Drilling jobs include:

Infographic showing various Underground Directional Drilling job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Contract. 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 Foreman

RMC CONTRACTING LLC

New Port Richey, FL • On-site

$21.50 - $26.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

We are looking for a skilled and dependable HDD Locator to work closely with the drill operator to guide and monitor the bore path during horizontal directional drilling operations. The HDD Locator ensures that drilling is performed accurately, safely, and according to project specifications while avoiding conflicts with existing underground utilities.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Locating and Tracking: Use electronic tracking systems such as Subsite to locate, track, and guide the drill head during bore operations.
  • Communication: Maintain constant communication with the drill operator to provide real-time feedback and guidance during drilling.
  • Utility Avoidance: Identify, locate, and pothole existing utilities using locating equipment to prevent conflicts and ensure safe drilling.
  • Planning: Read and interpret bore plans, blueprints, and utility maps to determine the correct bore path.
  • Site Preparation: Assist with pre-construction site checks, including potholing to expose existing utilities as needed.
  • Documentation: Maintain accurate and up-to-date bore logs, tracking data, and as-built records for project files.
  • Safety Compliance: Follow all company, industry, and OSHA safety standards and ensure safe practices at the job site.
  • Equipment Maintenance: Perform daily inspections and basic maintenance on locating equipment to ensure accuracy and functionality.
  • Problem-Solving: Anticipate and troubleshoot issues with locating signals or bore path deviations, adjusting techniques as needed.

Requirements:

  • Experience: 5+ years of experience in horizontal directional drilling locating.