CDL Utilities is a leading provider of excavation, underground installation, aerial installation, and maintenance services for utility service providers furnishing telecommunications (our primary focus, including fiber optic splicing/testing), as well as electric, gas, and water systems. For more than two decades, we have built a reputation for quality, service, and safety. We are committed to fostering growth and developing talent within the utility construction industry.
CDL Utilities has an immediate need for a skilled and reliable Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) Operator/Locator to support operations throughout North Carolina and surrounding markets. This position is open to candidates residing in North Carolina or South Carolina who are willing to travel as needed. Company-paid lodging, transportation, and a daily meal stipend are provided when traveling.
We are seeking a hard-working individual capable of working extended hours and occasionally on weekends for emergency or special situations. The work is primarily outdoors, and candidates must be prepared to work in varying weather conditions.
Responsibilities:
- Operate horizontal directional drilling equipment for the installation of underground conduit and fiber optic cable.
- Confirm and walk bore paths prior to drilling.
- Perform job site analysis and review utility locates and construction drawings.
- Set up and operate drilling equipment, water tanks, and grounding systems.
- Mix drilling fluids and prepare bore gel as required.
- Operate electronic HDD locating equipment to accurately track and navigate the drill head.
- Communicate continuously with the drill operator/locator to ensure bore path accuracy and prevent damage to existing utilities.
- Read and interpret utility prints, bore plans, and underground utility maps.
- Perform potholing, locating, and remediation activities.
- Calculate elevations and navigate drill heads over, under, or around existing obstacles.
- Maintain daily bore logs and required project documentation.
- Conduct post-job quality inspections.
- Perform routine maintenance and inspections on drills, tooling, vehicles, and support equipment.
- Assist with general underground construction activities as needed, including trenching, hand digging, conduit installation, traffic control, and site restoration.
- Train and mentor less experienced crew members.
- Maintain a safe work environment and follow all company, customer, OSHA, and industry safety standards.
Required Qualifications:
- Minimum of 2 years of hands-on experience operating and locating HDD equipment in rural and urban environments.
- Demonstrated experience performing HDD locating/tracking using electronic locating systems is required. Candidates with only conventional utility locating experience will not be considered.
- Experience in underground utility or telecommunications construction.
- Ability to accurately read and interpret construction prints, utility maps, and bore plans.
- Strong understanding of underground utility depths, placement, and industry standards.
- OSHA 10 certification required (OSHA 30 preferred).
- Valid Class B CDL or higher required.
- Must be authorized to work in the United States.
- Must be able to pass pre-employment drug screening, criminal background check, and motor vehicle record review.
- Ability to travel extensively and remain away from home for extended periods when required.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
- Willingness to work overtime, weekends, emergency response assignments, and in all weather conditions.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Class A CDL with Tanker Endorsement.
- Prior experience in telecommunications construction.
- Bilingual (English/Spanish).
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, crouch, and climb throughout the workday.
- Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds with or without assistance.
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- Must be able to work while wearing required PPE, including hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, and steel-toed boots.
- Ability to safely perform general labor tasks associated with underground construction.
Benefits:
- Competitive pay based on experience
- 401(k) with company match
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Health Savings Account (HSA)
- Life Insurance
- Paid Time Off
- Company-paid travel, lodging, and transportation
- Daily meal stipend while traveling
CDL Utilities is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. Employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.
Pay: From $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
