Directional Drill / Bore Operator

Vance Airscoop; Kalispell (MT); On-site; USD 33,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental & vision insurance

401k with company match

Paid time off

Per diem (when applicable)

Overtime opportunities

Job summary

WyoDak Energy Services seeks a Directional Drill / Bore Operator to operate HDD equipment and install underground fiber optic conduit and utilities. You will interpret project plans, locate utilities, bore profiles, and ensure bore paths meet specifications while protecting existing utilities and maintaining safe excavation practices.

Requirements include 2–3 years of HDD experience, ability to work outdoors in varying weather, and hands-on skills in maintenance, pre/post-trip inspections, and

Qualifications

• 2–3 years of experience operating directional drilling equipment.
• Knowledge of underground utility construction and fiber optic installation.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and bore plans.
• Experience working around existing utilities (gas, electric, water, sewer, telecom).
• Understanding of one-call/811 locate requirements.
• Mechanical aptitude and equipment troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to operate tracking/locator systems.
• Strong awareness of safety protocols.

Responsibilities

• Operate horizontal directional drilling (HDD) equipment for installation of fiber optic conduit and underground utilities.
• Interpret project plans, utility locates, and bore profiles.
• Perform jobsite setup including drill alignment, tracking systems, and mud mixing systems.
• Ensure compliance with utility locate markings and safe excavation practices.
• Monitor bore path using tracking equipment and adjust as necessary.
• Oversee drilling fluid systems and maintain proper mud consistency.

Skills

HDD operation

Fiber optic installation

Reading drawings

Safety compliance

Utility locates

CDL preferred

Maintenance skills

Manual labor

Tools

Vermeer

Ditch Witch

Job description

Job Title: Directional Drill / Bore Operator

Position Summary

The Bore Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining horizontal directional drilling (HDD) equipment to install underground fiber optic conduit and utility infrastructure. This position plays a critical role in safely and efficiently completing underground installations while protecting existing utilities and ensuring project specifications are met.

The ideal candidate has experience operating directional drills in varying soil conditions and understands underground utility construction practices.

Compensation

Hourly Wage Range: Starting $24.00 – $30.00 (Compensation based on experience, drill size proficiency, CDL status, and production performance.)

Benefits include:

• Health, dental & vision insurance
• 401k with company match
• Paid time off
• Per diem (when applicable)
• Overtime opportunities

Key Responsibilities

• Operate horizontal directional drilling (HDD) equipment for installation of fiber optic conduit and underground utilities
• Interpret project plans, utility locates, and bore profiles
• Perform jobsite setup including drill alignment, tracking systems, and mud mixing systems
• Ensure compliance with utility locate markings and safe excavation practices
• Monitor bore path using tracking equipment and adjust as necessary
• Oversee drilling fluid systems and maintain proper mud consistency
• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip equipment inspections
• Perform routine maintenance and minor repairs on drill equipment
• Coordinate with locator, laborers, and foreman to complete bore safely and efficiently
• Maintain production goals while adhering to safety standards
• Complete daily job logs and equipment reports
• Follow all company safety policies and OSHA requirements
• Assist crew with additional underground utility tasks as needed

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Minimum 2–3 years of experience operating directional drilling equipment
• Knowledge of underground utility construction and fiber optic installation
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and bore plans
• Experience working around existing utilities (gas, electric, water, sewer, telecom)
• Understanding of one-call/811 locate requirements
• Mechanical aptitude and equipment troubleshooting skills
• Ability to operate tracking/locator systems
• Strong awareness of safety protocols
• Valid driver’s license (CDL preferred but not required)
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Physically capable of lifting 50+ lbs and performing manual labor

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Vermeer, Ditch Witch, or similar HDD equipment
• Class A or B CDL
• OSHA 10 or 30 Certification

WyoDak Energy Services is an equal opportunity employer