ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Underground Directional Drilling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 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 ...

Congruex

Directional Drill Foreman

Zanesville, OH · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Key Responsibilities (Including, but not limited to): • Lead and perform directional drilling and utility locating activities to safely install underground telecommunications infrastructure. • ...

Essel Environmental

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 ...

Essel

Horizontal Directional Driller

Manassas, VA

$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 ...

Thayer Power and Communication

Directional Driller

Tampa, FL · On-site

$23 - $28.25/hr

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.

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 ...

347 Group, Inc.

Be Seen First

Directional Driller

Boise, ID · On-site

$28 - $38/hr

Compensation based on experience. (Heavy Equipment, Directional Drilling, Telecom, Underground Utilities, Operator, Tanker Endorsement) Company Description About us: 347 Group, Inc. provides staffing ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsConstruction JobsDrilling JobsDriller JobsUnderground Directional Drilling Jobs

Underground Directional Drilling information

See salary details

$13

$26

$34

How much do underground directional drilling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 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:

What job categories do people searching Underground Directional Drilling jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Underground Directional Drilling jobs are:

Underground Directional Drilling jobs near you
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, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,296 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Horizontal Direction Drilling Locator

Stockton, CA • On-site

Essel
11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Esselexternal

$25.50 - $31.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Job Title:
Horizontal Direction Drilling (HDD) Locator
Job Summary:
Essel is looking for a detail-oriented and safety-conscious Horizontal Direction Drilling Locator to join our team. 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 conflicts. This position requires strong knowledge of utility locating practices, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with drilling crews.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Use specialized equipment to detect and mark underground utilities prior to and during horizontal directional drilling operations.
  • Collaborate closely with drill operators and project managers to provide real-time utility location data and guidance.
  • Read and interpret project plans, utility maps, and as-built drawings.
  • Maintain accurate records of utility locations and any discrepancies encountered during drilling.
  • Ensure compliance with safety regulations and project specifications.
  • Assist in troubleshooting utility conflicts and provide solutions to minimize project disruptions.
  • Provide clear communication to the crew regarding underground obstacles and safety concerns.
Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Previous experience in utility locating, especially related to horizontal directional drilling operations preferred.
  • Proficient with utility locating equipment such as electromagnetic locators and ground-penetrating radar (GPR).
  • Strong understanding of underground utility systems (electric, gas, water, telecom, fiber).
  • Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving abilities.
  • Effective communication and teamwork skills.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and physically demanding environments.

Requirements
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
  • Knowledge of OSHA safety standards and industry best practices.
  • Experience in construction or utility industries is a strong plus.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including overtime as needed.
  • Strong commitment to safety and accuracy.

If you are a proactive professional looking to contribute to critical infrastructure projects, apply to join Essel's HDD team today.
Benefits
  • Consistent work opportunities across multiple projects
  • Weekly pay
  • Opportunity for overtime
  • Room for advancement into skilled trades

Apply