Job Summary
The HDD Operator is responsible for operating horizontal directional drilling equipment such as Ditch Witch and Vermeer to install underground utilities such as fiber optic cable, gas, water, or electrical conduits. This role requires technical skill, attention to detail, and strict adherence to safety standards to ensure precise and efficient drilling operations.
Key Responsibilities
• Operate HDD equipment including drill rigs, mud pumps, and related machinery
• Set up and secure drill sites according to project plans and safety protocols
• Read and interpret site plans, bore logs, and utility maps
• Monitor drill head alignment, depth, and angles to maintain bore accuracy
• Maintain and troubleshoot HDD equipment, including pumps, drill rods, and fluids
• Mix, monitor, and handle drilling fluids and ensure proper disposal or containment
• Perform pre-job and post-job equipment inspections and routine maintenance
• Coordinate with laborers, supervisors, and survey teams for safe and efficient operations
• Follow all OSHA, DOT, and company safety regulations
• Maintain clean, organized, and safe work sites
• Record drilling data, production logs, and completion reports
Required Qualifications
• Experience operating HDD equipment
• Knowledge of underground utility construction and installation standards
• Ability to read construction drawings, bore plans, and utility maps
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
Preferred Qualifications
• Fiber optic, gas, water, or electrical installation experience
• OSHA 10 or 30 certification
• Experience with surveying and bore path tracking
• CDL Class A or B license (depending on equipment transport requirements)
Physical Requirements
• Ability to lift 50+ lbs and perform physically demanding tasks
• Ability to climb on/off heavy equipment
• Prolonged standing, walking, and operating controls in various weather conditions
Work Environment
• Outdoor construction and utility job sites
• Exposure to noise, dust, mud, heavy machinery, and moving vehicles
• Travel between job sites may be required
The HDD Operator is responsible for operating horizontal directional drilling equipment such as Ditch Witch and Vermeer to install underground utilities such as fiber optic cable, gas, water, or electrical conduits. This role requires technical skill, attention to detail, and strict adherence to safety standards to ensure precise and efficient drilling operations.
Key Responsibilities
• Operate HDD equipment including drill rigs, mud pumps, and related machinery
• Set up and secure drill sites according to project plans and safety protocols
• Read and interpret site plans, bore logs, and utility maps
• Monitor drill head alignment, depth, and angles to maintain bore accuracy
• Maintain and troubleshoot HDD equipment, including pumps, drill rods, and fluids
• Mix, monitor, and handle drilling fluids and ensure proper disposal or containment
• Perform pre-job and post-job equipment inspections and routine maintenance
• Coordinate with laborers, supervisors, and survey teams for safe and efficient operations
• Follow all OSHA, DOT, and company safety regulations
• Maintain clean, organized, and safe work sites
• Record drilling data, production logs, and completion reports
Required Qualifications
• Experience operating HDD equipment
• Knowledge of underground utility construction and installation standards
• Ability to read construction drawings, bore plans, and utility maps
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
Preferred Qualifications
• Fiber optic, gas, water, or electrical installation experience
• OSHA 10 or 30 certification
• Experience with surveying and bore path tracking
• CDL Class A or B license (depending on equipment transport requirements)
Physical Requirements
• Ability to lift 50+ lbs and perform physically demanding tasks
• Ability to climb on/off heavy equipment
• Prolonged standing, walking, and operating controls in various weather conditions
Work Environment
• Outdoor construction and utility job sites
• Exposure to noise, dust, mud, heavy machinery, and moving vehicles
• Travel between job sites may be required