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Directional Drill Equipment Operator
Job Location:
Job Location:
Des Moines, IA - USA
Monthly Salary:
Not provided by the employer
Monthly Salary:
Posted:
17 October 2026 (4 days ago)
Posted:
Application Deadline:
14 January 2027
Application Deadline:
Vacancies:
1 Vacancy
Vacancies:
Job Summary
Job Summary
The Directional Drill Equipment Operator safely operates assigned heavy equipment and support vehicles to install expose and support underground utility infrastructure. Depending on project and crew needs assigned equipment may include horizontal directional drills hydro excavation units mini excavators skid loaders dump trucks trailers and related machinery. The Directional Drill Operator works with the Foreman and field crew to complete work safely efficiently accurately and with minimal impact to existing utilities and surrounding property. The equipment operator willet up and operate drill follow bore plans coordinate with locator complete pullback.
Assignment flexibility: The primary equipment vehicle and specific work methods assigned to this position may vary by project location qualifications and business need. Employees are expected to perform the core duties below but may not operate every listed type of equipment.
Key Responsibilities
The Directional Drill Equipment Operator safely operates assigned heavy equipment and support vehicles to install expose and support underground utility infrastructure. Depending on project and crew needs assigned equipment may include horizontal directional drills hydro excavation units mini excavators skid loaders dump trucks trailers and related machinery. The Directional Drill Operator works with the Foreman and field crew to complete work safely efficiently accurately and with minimal impact to existing utilities and surrounding property. The equipment operator willet up and operate drill follow bore plans coordinate with locator complete pullback.
Assignment flexibility: The primary equipment vehicle and specific work methods assigned to this position may vary by project location qualifications and business need. Employees are expected to perform the core duties below but may not operate every listed type of equipment.
Key Responsibilities
- Safely operate assigned heavy equipment vehicles trailers and support machinery including directional drills hydrovac units mini excavators skid loaders and dump trucks when trained and authorized.
- Perform underground utility installation excavation daylighting potholing trenching boring pullback and material-handling activities based on project needs.
- Review utility locates plans bore profiles and site conditions to identify hazards protect existing utilities and maintain installation accuracy.
- Complete required equipment inspections preventive maintenance cleaning basic troubleshooting and documentation.
- Promptly report equipment defects unsafe conditions incidents near misses property damage and repair needs.
- Assist with jobsite setup traffic control excavation support cleanup grading backfilling seeding concrete work and other restoration activities.
- Follow OSHA requirements company safety policies damage-prevention practices and PPE requirements.
- Communicate job progress changing conditions delays hazards and equipment concerns to the Foreman and crew.
- Work collaboratively with employees supervisors inspectors utility owners and customers to complete quality work safely and efficiently.
- Assist with training less-experienced employees when directed and qualified.
- Maintain a professional appearance and represent the company positively.
- Perform other duties reasonably related to the position as assigned.
- Set up and operate drill follow bore plans coordinate with locator complete pullback
- Safe equipment operation and underground utility awareness
- Mechanical aptitude and basic troubleshooting
- Ability to read utility locates plans and work instructions
- Attention to detail quality and sound judgment
- Communication teamwork accountability and time management
- Professionalism and customer service
- HDD training/experience; CDL as required
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
- Reliable transportation to and from assigned work locations.
- Experience operating construction or underground utility equipment preferred; proficiency with assigned equipment may be required.
- Knowledge of underground utility construction utility locates equipment inspections and preventive maintenance preferred.
- Valid drivers license acceptable driving record and ability to remain insurable under the companys vehicle insurance policy.
- Class A CDL and applicable endorsements required based on assignment; ability to obtain within three months of hire may be considered.
- Ability to meet applicable DOT and FMCSA requirements including required drug and alcohol testing.
- Successful completion of pre-employment and periodic MVR reviews.
- Ability to complete required training and equipment-specific qualifications or certifications.
- Ability to travel and work overtime weekends or irregular schedules as needed.
Physical Requirements & Work Environment
- Frequently stand walk bend kneel squat crouch climb and work on uneven terrain; work in trenches confined spaces or at heights when the assignment requires.
- Frequently lift carry push and pull materials or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds and occasionally up to 75 pounds; use assistance or mechanical means for heavier loads.
- Operate heavy equipment trucks trailers and powered machinery for extended periods.
- Possess the visual auditory and physical ability necessary to safely operate equipment communicate with the crew and identify hazards.
- Work outdoors in varying weather and site conditions including heat cold rain snow wind mud dust noise traffic vibration moving equipment and active underground utilities.
- Safely wear and use required PPE including hard hats safety glasses hearing protection gloves high-visibility apparel and safety-toe boots.
Required Experience:
Manager
About Company
Do you want to work for a company where your efforts are not only appreciated and acknowledged, but also well compensated? Do you like the thought of working with a team where 100% employee ownership means every member of the team is working towards the same goal? Do you want to becom ... View more
