Directional Drill Operator

Network Connex is seeking an experienced Directional Drill Operator to operate horizontal directional drilling equipment for underground fiber optic, telecommunications, and utility construction projects.

The ideal candidate has hands-on experience operating Ditch Witch AT series drills and dirt drills, along with a strong understanding of HDD operations, bore planning, drilling conditions, tooling, drilling fluids, and safe equipment operation.

This is a hands-on field position requiring an experienced operator who can safely and efficiently complete bores while working closely with the HDD Locator and drill crew.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation, paid weekly
• Medical, Dental, Vision, LTD/STD
• 10 Paid Holidays
• Paid time off - Accrued, two weeks
• 401(k) with company match
• Overtime opportunities
• Growth opportunities

Key Responsibilities:

• Operate Ditch Witch AT series drills, dirt drills, and other HDD equipment to complete underground fiber installations.
• Safely operate HDD equipment according to manufacturer specifications and company procedures.
• Perform horizontal directional drilling for fiber optic cable, conduit, telecommunications infrastructure, and other underground utilities.
• Work closely with the HDD Locator to maintain the planned bore path, depth, and alignment.
• Review and understand bore plans, construction drawings, utility locates, and project specifications.
• Assist with bore planning and determine appropriate drilling procedures based on soil conditions, bore length, depth, and jobsite conditions.
• Monitor drilling conditions and adjust drilling operations as necessary.
• Operate drilling equipment efficiently while maintaining production and bore quality.
• Select and utilize appropriate drill heads, tooling, reamers, swivels, hole openers, and other drilling components.
• Assist with drilling fluid and mud management, including mixing and monitoring drilling fluids.
• Monitor drilling pressures, torque, pullback, and other equipment operating conditions.
• Perform pre-operational inspections and identify equipment maintenance or safety concerns.
• Assist with equipment setup, tooling changes, product pullback, and demobilization.
• Safely expose existing utilities through potholing and other approved methods before and during drilling operations.
• Maintain proper communication with the Locator, Foreman, and crew throughout the drilling process.
• Follow approved bore plans and immediately communicate changes or potential problems.
• Maintain accurate bore logs, production records, and required daily documentation.
• Operate equipment safely around existing utilities, roadways, pedestrians, and other construction activities.
• Follow all company, OSHA, customer, and jobsite safety requirements.
• Ability to work effectively with a Locator, Foreman, and construction crew.