Job Title: Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) Operator – Telecommunications (Vermeer D20x22)
Location: West Michigan with travel throughout the state of Michigan (currently all West Michigan)
About the Role
Augusta is seeking a motivated and skilled Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) Operator to join our dynamic telecommunications construction team. In this vital role, you will operate a Vermeer D20x22 horizontal directional drill to install fiber optic and telecom conduit with precision and efficiency. Your work will help ensure safe, accurate, and timely underground utility installations, directly supporting essential infrastructure projects across Michigan.
Daily work is based in West Michigan, with travel required throughout the state of Michigan as project locations change. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work with cutting‑edge HDD technology in a fast‑paced environment, building the backbone of modern communications while growing your career with a growing company.
Responsibilities
- Operate a Vermeer D20x22 horizontal directional drill for telecommunications conduit and fiber installation projects.
- Bore underground pathways for utilities such as telecommunications, fiber, and related infrastructure while maintaining proper depth, alignment, and required utility clearances.
- Read and interpret construction drawings, bore profiles, telecom prints, and project plans to execute drilling operations accurately.
- Maintain proper separation from existing underground utilities (gas, electric, water, sewer, and telecom) using locates, maps, and field verification.
- Monitor and maintain drilling fluid systems, including mud mixing, flow, and pressure, to ensure smooth drilling operations.
- Perform daily equipment inspections of the Vermeer D20x22, drill rig, and related machinery (including excavators, backhoes, and other support equipment), following safety protocols and performing preventative maintenance.
- Troubleshoot ground conditions and equipment issues in real time to maintain steady production and minimize downtime.
- Document all drilling activities by completing bore logs, daily production reports, and as‑built records accurately and on time.
- Coordinate with drill crews, HDD Locators, and field technicians to set up work zones, establish safety protocols, and execute drilling sequences efficiently.
- Follow all telecom, jobsite, and OSHA safety standards, including traffic control plans and construction site regulations, to prevent accidents and ensure a secure work environment.
- Demonstrate strong reliability and professionalism by arriving on time each day, prepared to work, and contributing positively to the crew.
Qualifications
- Proven experience operating a Vermeer D20x22 (or similar mid‑size HDD drill) – required.
- Experience working on telecommunications or fiber installation projects using horizontal directional drilling.
- Strong understanding of underground utility awareness, safe digging practices, and utility‑avoidance methods.
- Ability to read telecom construction prints, bore profiles, and technical drawings accurately.
- Knowledge of drilling fluids, including proper mixing, management, and basic troubleshooting.
- 2+ years of drilling experience operating horizontal directional drilling (HDD) equipment in construction or utility work.
- Valid driver’s license and a clean driving record; Class A CDL preferred.
- Physically capable of bending, kneeling, crouching, reaching, and lifting up to 75 pounds independently.
- Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions and travel throughout Michigan as projects require.
- OSHA 10 Certification preferred (or ability to obtain upon hire).
- Dependable, self‑motivated, and able to work effectively with minimal supervision in a fast‑paced field environment.
Augusta Tower is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.
Pay: $25.00 - $28.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
