HDD Locator
Job Title: HDD Locator
Department: OSP Services
Reports To: Construction Manager / HDD Foreman
Location: Southeastern US, open to any state from Alabama to Texas
About us
At TXO, we are transforming technology for a more sustainable future. Our people enable organisations worldwide to optimise and transform technology across its entire lifecycle, helping customers unlock value while reducing environmental impact through circular economy solutions.
Working at TXO means contributing to real-world change. Our global teams support critical infrastructure for customers in more than 140 countries, extending the life of technology, reducing waste, and helping organisations operate more sustainably. From engineering and operations to sales, finance, supply chain and corporate functions, every role plays a part in delivering meaningful impact.
We combine global reach with local expertise, creating opportunities to work on complex challenges across technology, commercial, operational, and business disciplines. Our culture is built on collaboration, innovation, and technical excellence, empowering our people to deliver practical solutions that make a measurable difference.
As we continue to grow globally, backed by TowerBrook Capital Partners’ impact strategy, we are committed to building an inclusive environment where our people can develop, thrive and help shape the future of sustainable technology.
Position Summary
The HDD Locator is responsible for safely locating and directing Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) operations for underground utility, telecommunications, and fiber optic construction projects. This role focuses on accurately tracking drill head location, monitoring bore path alignment, avoiding underground utility conflicts, and assisting drilling crews in the successful completion of HDD installations. The ideal candidate possesses HDD locating experience and a thorough understanding of underground utility construction and damage prevention practices.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Operate and maintain electronic HDD locating equipment to accurately track drill head location, depth, pitch, and orientation
- Guide drill operators through planned bore paths while avoiding existing underground utilities and conflicts.
- Read and interpret utility locates, construction prints, bore profiles, and project specifications.
- Verify bore path accuracy and ensure installations meet project design requirements and customer specifications
- Monitor drilling conditions and recommend adjustments to maintain bore alignment and production efficiency.
- Identify and mitigate risks associated with underground utility crossings and congested utility corridors.
- Support setup, operation, and breakdown of HDD equipment and support vehicles.
- Inspect conduit installations to ensure compliance with project specifications and customer requirements.
- Perform quality control inspections throughout all phases of HDD operations.
- Ensure proper potholing and utility verification procedures are completed before drilling activities begin.
- Complete daily production reports, bore logs, safety documentation, and equipment inspection records.
- Monitor equipment condition and report maintenance needs or deficiencies promptly.
- Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations, company safety policies, customer requirements, and damage prevention laws.
- Assist with restoration, traffic control, and general construction activities as needed.
- Travel as required to project locations.
Required Qualifications
- Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.
- Minimum 2 years of HDD locating experience in telecommunications, fiber optic, or underground utility construction.
- Proficiency operating DigiTrak, Subsite, or similar HDD locating systems.
- Strong understanding of underground utility locating and damage prevention practices.
- Experience reading construction plans, utility locates, and bore profiles.
- Knowledge of HDD drilling operations, conduit installation, and telecommunications construction standards.
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- Willingness to work overtime and occasional weekends as needed.
Preferred Qualifications
- Class A or Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
- Fiber optic construction experience.
- OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification.
- Experience operating HDD drilling equipment.
- Experience operating additional construction equipment including mini excavators, skid steers, vacuum excavators, and loaders.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift and carry up to 75 pounds.
- Ability to walk long distances over uneven terrain while tracking drill operations.
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and climb throughout the workday.
- Ability to work in outdoor environments and varying terrain conditions.
- Ability to work near active construction equipment and utility infrastructure.
Safety Responsibilities
- Follow all company safety policies and procedures.
- Participate in safety meetings and training programs.
- Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.
- Stop work and report unsafe conditions immediately.
- Ensure all utility locates, potholing, and hazard mitigation requirements are completed prior to drilling operations.
- Maintain awareness of underground utility hazards and safe excavation practices. [
Compensation and Benefits
- Competitive hourly wage based on experience.
- Overtime opportunities.
- Health, dental, and vision insurance.
- 401(k) with company match.
- Paid time off and holidays.
- Career advancement opportunities within telecommunications construction.
