Directional Drilling Operator

E-Z Bel Construction, LLC; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical & Dental Plans

Vision Insurance

401(k) Retirement Plan

Quarterly Bonuses

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Job summary

A regional construction company in San Antonio, Texas, is seeking a Drill/Bore Operator responsible for operating HDD and auger boring equipment for underground utility installations. The ideal candidate has over 2 years of construction experience, a commitment to safety, and strong teamwork skills. This role includes both hands-on operations and assistance with project delivery, ensuring adherence to safety standards and effective communication on-site. The company offers competitive benefits and growth opportunities.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of construction experience required.
• Ability to lift up to 75 pounds and perform physical tasks.
• Experience operating HDD or auger boring equipment.

Responsibilities

• Operate HDD and auger boring equipment to perform bore operations.
• Assist Foreman with daily tasks and project efficiency.
• Read and follow bore profiles, maps, and blueprints.

Skills

Construction experience

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Adaptability

Team collaboration

Safety commitment

Tools

HDD equipment

Auger boring equipment

Basic hand tools

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Drill/Bore Operator is responsible for operating horizontal directional drilling (HDD) and auger boring equipment to support underground utility installations. This role requires strict adherence to safety standards, the ability to follow technical bore plans, and hands‑on operation of drilling equipment. The position offers growth from entry‑level operation under supervision to advanced, independent performance of complex bores.

YOUR ROLE

• Assist the Foreman in executing day‑to‑day tasks and ensuring project efficiency.
• Operates HDD and auger boring equipment under supervision to perform bore operations.
• Reads and follows bore profiles, utility maps, and blueprints (with guidance).
• Adjusts drill head rotation, pitch, and tracking based on instruction or soil conditions.
• Mixes and maintains drilling fluids, ensuring correct viscosity and containment.
• Executes reaming, back reaming, and pullback operations to meet project specifications.
• Troubleshoots minor issues (signal loss, fluid loss) and reports complex problems.
• Performs advanced HDD and auger boring operations independently, including long bores, elevation changes, and use of GPS/digital tracking.
• Learns and applies safe fluid mixing, containment, and disposal procedures.
• Develops advanced skills in bore strategy adjustments, tracking calibration, and fluid management.
• Cleans drill equipment and bore site staging areas daily.
• Assists with rod loading/unloading, greasing, and hose checks.
• Inspects rods, drill heads, nozzles, and fluid lines prior to use.
• Operates skid steer or forklift to load/unload equipment (if authorized).
• Organizes tooling and accessories for upcoming bores.
• Positions and secures drill rig for transport, ensuring safe equipment handling.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

WHAT YOU BRING

• 2+ years of construction experience required.
• Physical strength and stamina to perform demanding tasks.
• Strong accuracy and attention to detail in completing work.
• Effective written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to adapt to varying work locations and schedules, including overtime and weekends.
• Team collaboration and leadership capabilities to assist with crew organization.
• Reliable attendance and commitment to safety protocols.
• Experience operating or assisting with HDD or auger boring equipment.
• Ability to read and understand bore profiles, maps, and blueprints.
• Familiarity with basic hand tools and rig maintenance tasks.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The Drill/Bore Operator frequently performs physically demanding tasks such as standing, walking, kneeling, climbing ladders, and lifting up to 75 pounds. This role requires the ability to navigate uneven terrain, read blueprints, and use tools and equipment safely. Work is performed on active job sites with exposure to extreme temperatures, loud noise, and potential hazards. Strict adherence to safety standards is required.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

May require travel within Texas. Overnight or out‑of‑town stays may be needed based on project location.

PRE-SCREEN

Upon offer, employees will be required to complete and pass a pre‑employment drug screen.

Benefits

• Best‑in‑class Medical & Dental Plans
• Vision Insurance
• Voluntary Life Insurance
• Supplemental Accident, Critical Illness, and Short‑Term Disability Coverage
• Pet Insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Quarterly Bonuses
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Tuition Reimbursement & Continued Education Programs
• Scholarship Initiatives
• Community Engagement Opportunities
• Company Events & Quarterly State of the Company Meetings

E‑Z Bel Construction, LLC is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or veteran status.