Key Responsibilities
-
Operate horizontal directional drilling equipment to install underground utilities.
-
Operate excavators, backhoes, skid steers, and other equipment used for underground utility construction.
-
Follow bore plans, construction prints, utility maps, jobsite markings, and instructions from the foreman or locator.
-
Coordinate closely with the drill locator to maintain the correct bore path, depth, pitch, and alignment.
-
Excavate trenches, entry and exit pits, utility crossings, and other areas required for underground installation.
-
Assist with jobsite setup, bore preparation, potholing, utility daylighting, pullback, conduit placement, backfilling, restoration, and cleanup.
-
Identify and work safely around existing underground utilities.
-
Load, move, and place dirt, rock, conduit, pipe, materials, and equipment as needed.
-
Communicate clearly with locators, foremen, laborers, spotters, and other equipment operators.
-
Perform daily inspections and basic maintenance on drilling equipment, excavators, support equipment, tools, and vehicles.
Required Qualifications, Skills & Abilities
-
Previous experience operating horizontal directional drills and excavators in underground utility construction.
-
Experience operating excavators, backhoes, skid steers, or similar heavy equipment.
-
Ability to read construction prints, follow bore plans, and understand underground utility markings.
-
Experience excavating around existing underground utilities and active construction sites.
-
Knowledge of potholing, utility daylighting, pullback procedures, conduit installation, trenching, backfilling, and restoration.
-
Strong communication skills and the ability to work closely with locators, spotters, foremen, and crew members.
-
Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
-
CDL required.
-
Experience with fiber, conduit, telecommunications, electrical, or power utility installation preferred.