Drill Operator

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Operate horizontal directional drilling equipment to bore underground pathways for fiber-optic telecommunications infrastructure.
• Work closely with the Drill Locator to accurately follow planned bore paths and maintain required depth and alignment.
• Review and interpret construction plans, blueprints, utility maps, and project specifications.
• Perform pre-drilling inspections of equipment, work areas, and planned bore paths.
• Coordinate with the Drill Locator regarding drill location, depth, direction, and changing underground conditions.
• Operate drilling equipment safely and efficiently while maintaining production requirements.
• Monitor drilling conditions, ground conditions, equipment performance, and fluid levels throughout operations.
• Assist with setup and breakdown of HDD equipment, including drill rods, mud systems, hoses, and tooling.
• Ensure proper use of drilling fluids and maintain appropriate fluid circulation during boring operations.
• Identify and report potential underground utility conflicts, obstructions, equipment issues, or unsafe conditions.
• Assist with potholing, daylighting, conduit installation, pulling operations, and other underground construction activities as needed.
• Perform routine inspections, maintenance, cleaning, and minor troubleshooting of drilling equipment.
• Maintain accurate daily production reports, equipment records, and required project documentation.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Follow company safety policies, OSHA requirements, and applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
• Follow proper procedures when working around existing underground utilities and public infrastructure.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, Drill Locators, laborers, and other members of the construction crew.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Attention to detail
• Mechanical aptitude
• Team-oriented
• Dependable and reliable
• Ability to follow directions and project specifications
• Strong communication
• Problem-solving skills
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, and work for extended periods.
• Safety-conscious
• Ability to lift and carry equipment and materials as required.
• Ability to work outdoors and in varied weather conditions.
• Ability to work independently
• Ability to work around heavy machinery, construction equipment, and active roads or rights-of-way.
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Previous experience operating horizontal directional drilling equipment preferred.
• Experience in fiber-optic, telecommunications, utility, or underground construction preferred.
• Knowledge of HDD operations, drilling techniques, and underground utility installation.
• Ability to read and understand construction plans, utility maps, and project specifications.
• Ability to work effectively with a Drill Locator and construction crew.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot basic equipment issues.
• Strong understanding of construction-site safety practices.
• Valid driver's license required; ability to meet company driving requirements.
• CDL may be required depending on equipment and project requirements.

PREFFERED REQUIREMENTS

• 1+ year of experience operating HDD equipment.
• Experience with Vermeer, Ditch Witch, American Augers, or similar equipment.
• Experience installing telecommunications conduit or fiber infrastructure.
• Experience working with drilling fluids and mud mixing systems.
• Familiarity with 811 requirements and underground utility safety.
• OSHA or other relevant construction safety training is a plus.