Drill Operator

Entersource-; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay and travel per diem

On-the-job training and certification

Health, dental, and vision benefits

Career growth and advancement

Safety-focused, team-driven work

Paid sick leave, time off and holidays

Company-paid travel expenses

Employee Assistance Program

Referral Bonus Program

Physical work – get paid to do your WU

Opportunities to gain valuable skills

Job summary

EnterSource is seeking a skilled Directional Driller to operate horizontal directional drilling equipment for underground fiber optic and conduit installations. You will read maps, plan bores, and coordinate with crew members to ensure safe, accurate work on multiple project sites.

The ideal candidate brings HDD experience, a solid understanding of utilities and locating systems, and a willingness to travel. This role emphasizes safety, teamwork, and hands-on work outdoors in varying conditions.

Qualifications

• Experience operating HDD equipment (Vermeer, Ditch Witch, or similar).
• Strong understanding of HDD methods, underground utilities, and locating systems.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and utility locates.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Valid driver’s license with clean driving record.

Responsibilities

• Operate directional drilling equipment to install conduit and fiber optic cables underground per project specs.
• Read utility maps, blueprints, and job plans to determine drill paths and locate utilities.
• Conduct bore planning, pilot drilling, reaming, and product pullback safely and efficiently.
• Collaborate with locators, crew, and project managers to ensure accuracy and timely completion.
• Perform daily equipment inspections, maintenance, and basic repairs.
• Maintain records of bore logs and material usage.
• Travel to project sites; overnight stays may be required.

Skills

Directional drilling experience

Underground utilities knowledge

Reading construction drawings

Mechanical aptitude

Valid driver’s license

Travel willingness

Teamwork and communication

Tools

Vermeer drilling equipment

Ditch Witch equipment

Job description

Description

About EnterSource

EnterSource is a leading provider of broadband and fiber optic installation services, dedicated to expanding high-speed internet access to communities across the nation. We take pride in our commitment to quality, safety, and innovation. As we continue to grow, we are looking for a skilled and motivated Directional Driller to join our construction and installation team.

Position Overview

The Directional Driller is responsible for operating horizontal directional drilling (HDD) equipment to install underground fiber optic and conduit systems safely and efficiently. This role requires hands-on experience with drilling operations, attention to detail, and a strong focus on safety and precision. The ideal candidate will have experience in telecommunications or utility construction and be willing to travel for projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate directional drilling equipment to install conduit and fiber optic cables underground according to project specifications.
• Read and interpret utility maps, blueprints, and job plans to determine drill paths and locate existing utilities.
• Conduct bore planning, pilot drilling, reaming, and product pullback operations safely and efficiently.
• Collaborate with locators, crew members, and project managers to ensure accuracy and job completion.
• Perform daily equipment inspections, maintenance, and basic repairs as needed.
• Ensure all work is performed in compliance with safety standards, local regulations, and company procedures.
• Maintain accurate records of job details, including bore logs and material usage.
• Travel to various project sites; overnight stays may be required.

Qualifications

• Proven experience operating directional drilling equipment (Vermeer, Ditch Witch, or similar).
• Strong understanding of HDD methods, underground utilities, and locating systems.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and utility locates.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record required.
• Must be willing to travel extensively and work outdoors in varying conditions.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• CDL Class A (or willingness to obtain).
• Experience in fiber optic, telecommunications, or utility construction.
• Knowledge of drilling fluids, ground conditions, and bore path calculations.
• Safety certifications (OSHA 10/30, First Aid, CPR) are a plus.

What We Offer:

• Competitive pay and travel per diem
• On-the-job training and certification opportunities
• Health, dental, and vision benefits
• Career growth and advancement potential
• A safety-focused, team-driven work environment
• Paid sick leave, time off and holidays
• Company-paid travel expenses
• Employee Assistance Program
• Referral Bonus Program
• Physical work – get paid to do your workout!
• Opportunity to gain valuable skills in a growing industry!!

Employment is contingent on the successful completion of a pre-employment screen, including a drug test and an acceptable driving record.

Equal Employment Opportunity: We're proud to be an equal opportunity employer and celebrate our employees' differences, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or Veteran status. Different makes us better. Employment with EnterSource is at-will and either party can terminate the relationship at any time with or without cause and with or without notice. This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice. This is a safety sensitive position. EnterSource is a drug-free workplace.