HDD FOREMAN / OPERATOR

Mears-Group-Inc; Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Mears Group, Inc. in Kansas City, MO is seeking an HDD Foreman/Operator to lead our drilling crew on natural gas and utility projects. You will supervise field operations, ensure safety, quality, and on-time completion, and mentor crew members on HDD techniques.

Qualified candidates have 5+ years of underground equipment operation, 2+ years in a foreman role, and strong ability to read blueprints and coordinate with project teams in a fast-paced setting.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of equipment operation in underground utility construction.
• 2+ years in a foreman or leadership role.
• Experience installing multiple utility types via HDD.
• Ability to read engineering plans, schematics, and blueprints.
• Able to operate excavators, skid steers, backhoes, and loaders.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Physical ability to work outside in various weather; frequent lifting up to 50 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Supervise daily HDD operations and schedule drilling activities to meet project timelines.
• Coordinate with project managers, crew members, subcontractors, suppliers, etc. to ensure smooth site operations.
• Guide and mentor drilling crews, maintaining high team performance and adherence to standards.
• Conduct regular inspections of work to ensure quality and compliance with project requirements.
• Resolve operational issues and equipment malfunctions to avoid project delays.
• Enforce safety protocols and ensure compliance with OSHA, company, and industry standards.
• Conduct job hazard analyses, safety meetings, and routine safety checks on equipment and job sites.
• Maintain a safe and hazard-free work environment for all personnel.
• Operate HDD rigs and related equipment to natural gas and other underground utilities.
• Read and interpret project blueprints, utility maps, and drill profiles to guide drilling operations.
• Monitor bore path alignment, depth, fluid pressure, and speed, adjusting as needed.
• Mix and manage drilling fluids (mud systems) to maintain bore stability and minimize environmental impact.
• Identify and avoid underground utilities using electronic locators and safe digging practices.
• Perform product pullback and conduit placement according to established procedures.
• Handle general site preparation, trenching, potholing, right-of-way maintenance, and site restoration.
• Conduct pre-trip inspections and perform routine maintenance on HDD equipment.
• Perform preventative maintenance and report any mechanical issues.
• Maintain equipment readiness and ensure tools and machinery are functioning properly and safely.
• Assist with equipment setup, transport, and site cleanup as needed.
• Prepare and submit daily reports on project progress, equipment use, and safety compliance.
• Maintain accurate documentation, logs, and paperwork related to operations and regulatory standards.
• All other duties as assigned.
• Travel as needed

Skills

Equipment operation

Foreman leadership

Blueprint reading

Problem solving

Safety compliance

Tools

Excavators

Skid steers

Backhoes

Loaders

Job description

CONSTRUCT YOUR CAREER WITH MEARS AND BUILD AMERICA'S FUTURE

Are you looking for your next big opportunity? At Mears Group we offer more than just a job. We offer a career where you can grow, innovate, and make a real impact.

Mears Group, Inc., a Quanta Services company, is a leader in the construction and infrastructure industry. With more than 50 years of experience, we are committed to safety, quality, and integrity. We bring together people and resources to build the framework that powers our nation.

We are looking for an HDD Foreman / Operator to lead our drilling crew in Kansas City, MO . This leadership role is responsible for ensuring the safety, precision, and success of natural gas and utility installation projects. This role requires practical field experience, strong leadership and communication skills, and a commitment to safety.

WHY JOIN MEARS?

• Build America: Mears is a leading provider of engineering and construction solutions in oil and gas, electric transmission and distribution, telecom, and wastewater industries across North America.
• Professional growth: Mears offers comprehensive training programs and career advancement pathways.
• Competitive compensation: Enjoy competitive wages and excellent benefits.
• Community impact: We give back to the communities we serve.

SAFETY THAT BRINGS YOU HOME:

At Mears, safety is our utmost priority. We are at the forefront of enhancing safety outcomes for both our employees and clients. We empower our workers to take ownership of their own safety. The Capacity Model is designed to minimize the risk of accidents and injuries.

BENEFITS & COMPENSATION:

Despite our size, Mears remains a family company. Our suite of benefits reflects our commitment to our employees.

• Paid on-the-job technical and professional growth opportunities
• Established career path for future advancement
• 401k and Roth 401(k) retirement savings plans
• Life & Disability Insurance plans
• Financial wellness program
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount programs

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Supervise daily HDD operations and schedule drilling activities to meet project timelines and specifications
• Coordinate with project managers, crew members, subcontractors, suppliers, etc. to ensure smooth site operations
• Guide and mentor drilling crews, maintaining high team performance and adherence to standards
• Conduct regular inspections of work to ensure quality and compliance with project requirements
• Resolve operational issues and equipment malfunctions to avoid project delays
• Enforce safety protocols and ensure compliance with OSHA, company, and industry standards
• Conduct job hazard analyses, safety meetings, and routine safety checks on equipment and job sites
• Maintain a safe and hazard-free work environment for all personnel
• Operate HDD rigs and related equipment to natural gas and other underground utilities
• Read and interpret project blueprints, utility maps, and drill profiles to guide drilling operations
• Monitor bore path alignment, depth, fluid pressure, and speed, adjusting as needed.
• Mix and manage drilling fluids (mud systems) to maintain bore stability and minimize environmental impact
• Identify and avoid underground utilities using electronic locators and safe digging practices
• Perform product pullback and conduit placement according to established procedures.
• Handle general site preparation, trenching, potholing, right-of-way maintenance, and site restoration
• Conduct pre-trip inspections and perform routine maintenance on HDD equipment.
• Perform preventative maintenance and report any mechanical issues
• Maintain equipment readiness and ensure tools and machinery are functioning properly and safely
• Assist with equipment setup, transport, and site cleanup as needed
• Prepare and submit daily reports on project progress, equipment use, and safety compliance
• Maintain accurate documentation, logs, and paperwork related to operations and regulatory standards
• All other duties as assigned
• Travel as needed

KEY QUALIFICATIONS:

• Valid driver’s license required, Class A CDL preferred
• 5+ years of equipment operation in underground utility construction
• 2+ years of experience as a foreman or leadership role
• Experience installing multiple utility types (e.g., water, sewer, power, communications) via HDD
• Proficient in reading engineering plans, schematics, and blueprints
• Able to operate excavators, skid steers, backhoes, and loaders
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail in fast-paced environments
• Physical activity required for role
  • Work outside in a range of weather conditions, including hot and cold weather
  • Standing and walking for extended periods on uneven surfaces
  • Repeatedly kneeling, climbing, crouching, crawling, reaching, working overhead
  • Repeatedly lifting up to 50 pounds overhead
  • Move about, in, and around construction vehicles
  • Good vision (either normal or corrected) and good balance
  • Manual dexterity for the use of hand and power tools
• Pass Pre-Employment drug screen and background check

This role is accepting applications until filled.

This position is subject to the Federal Department of Transportation (DOT) drug & alcohol testing regulations as outlined in 49 CFR Part 382 and/or 49 CFR Part 199.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.