National Fiber Construction Co. (NFC) is a horizontal directional drilling and fiber optic installation contractor with over 35 years of experience. We self-perform underground and aerial telecom construction, FTTH installation, fiber splicing, handhole/pedestal/vault work, and directional boring for major carriers and municipal clients across Michigan. Our crews run a Ditch Witch HDD fleet on a 4×10 schedule.
We're hiring experienced HDD Operators and Locators to join our field crews.
What You'll Do
-
Operate Ditch Witch directional drills (JT20-class and similar) to install fiber conduit in urban, suburban, and rural environments
- Run electronic locating systems (Underground Magnetics, Subsite, or equivalent) to track drill head position, depth, and pitch in real time
- Communicate continuously with the drill operator or locator to hold bore path, grade, and safe clearance from existing utilities
- Read and interpret construction prints, bore plans, utility locates, and shot sheets — and flag discrepancies in the field
- Perform potholing and visual verification of underground crossings before and during the bore
- Mix and manage drilling fluids — understand viscosity, flow rates, and when to adjust the mud program
- Maintain bore logs, as-builts, redlines, and daily production documentation
- Assist with rig setup/teardown, rod handling, tooling changes, and site restoration
- Conduct or participate in pre-job safety briefings and adhere to OSHA and company safety standards
- Report underground conflicts, utility damage, or safety hazards immediately
Required:
-
2+ years operating HDD rigs or locating in telecom/utility construction
- Ability to read construction drawings, bore profiles, and utility maps
- Hands-on knowledge of Underground Magnetics, Subsite, or Vermeer tracking systems or Operating Ditch Witch Rigs.
- Strong understanding of 811 processes and underground utility identification
- Valid driver's license (CDL preferred; willingness to obtain CDL with company support required)
- Physically able to lift 50 lbs., walk bore paths, and work outdoors in all weather
Preferred:
-
FTTH (Fiber to the Home) build experience
- Experience boring in high-risk areas — live gas, electric, water, and sewer
- Experience with hydro-vac, excavator, or other support equipment helpful
- Highway traffic control knowledge or flagger certification
- Knowledge of mud mixing and drilling fluid systems
- Competitive pay based on experience with annual performance reviews and merit increases
- Co-pay Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Retirement with company match
- Paid time off, paid holidays, paid drive time, and paid sick leave
- CDL training support
- Career advancement path — we promote from within
- Maintained Ditch Witch fleet and modern locating systems
- Able to lift 50 lbs., including tools, equipment, and drill components
- Able to stand, walk, kneel, crouch, and bend for extended periods on uneven terrain
- Comfortable working outdoors in all Michigan weather — heat, cold, rain, and snow
- Willing to work in close proximity to vehicular traffic and active utility corridors
National Fiber Construction Co. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
