HDD Operator Locator

Sellenriek; Sauk Rapids (MN); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Travel-based field position

Per diem provided

Lodging provided

Job summary

Priority Dispatch Corp. seeks an HDD Operator / Locator in Sauk Rapids, MN, to support travel-based projects with Anderson Underground. The role focuses on drilling, locating utilities, and following prints and bore plans while maintaining safety and field documentation.

You will work with a traveling crew, read utility markings, and perform equipment inspections. Valid license and willingness to travel are required.

Qualifications

• HDD operating and/or locating experience.
• Experience in underground utility construction or related field work.
• Ability to read prints and bore plans.
• Willingness to travel on a rotating schedule.

Responsibilities

• Operate horizontal directional drilling equipment to install underground utilities, conduit, and fiber.
• Use locating equipment to track drill head position, depth, pitch, and bore path.
• Read and follow prints, bore plans, utility maps, and jobsite instructions.
• Assist with jobsite setup, bore preparation, potholing, pullback, and cleanup.
• Communicate with drill operators, locators, foremen, and crew members.
• Identify and work safely around existing underground utilities.
• Perform daily inspections and basic maintenance on drilling equipment and vehicles.
• Follow safety policies, OSHA standards, and jobsite procedures.
• Maintain field documentation such as production notes and bore logs.

Skills

HDD operating

Locating experience

Communication skills

Travel with crew

Safety awareness

Tools

Vermeer equipment

Ditch Witch equipment

Job description

Job Details

Job Location: Sauk Rapids, MN 56379

Position Type: Full Time

HDD Operator / Locator

Location: Sauk Rapids, MN / Travel-Based

This role requires strong field awareness, safe work habits, and the ability to work as part of a traveling crew in changing jobsite conditions.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate horizontal directional drilling equipment to install underground utilities, conduit, and fiber.
• Use locating equipment to track drill head position, depth, pitch, and bore path.
• Read and follow prints, bore plans, utility maps, and jobsite instructions.
• Assist with jobsite setup, bore preparation, potholing, pullback, and cleanup.
• Communicate clearly with drill operators, locators, foremen, and crew members.
• Identify and work safely around existing underground utilities.
• Perform daily inspections and basic maintenance on drilling equipment, support equipment, tools, and vehicles.
• Assist laborers and operators with trenching, conduit placement, hand digging, restoration, and general underground construction tasks.
• Follow company safety policies, OSHA standards, traffic control requirements, and jobsite procedures.
• Maintain accurate field documentation as needed, including production notes, bore logs, and daily reports.

Required Qualifications, Skills & Abilities

• Previous HDD operating and/or locating experience.
• Experience working in underground utility construction, telecommunications, fiber, or related field work.
• Ability to read prints, follow bore plans, and understand underground utility markings.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work closely with a traveling crew.
• Ability to work safely around live utilities, equipment, traffic, and active construction sites.
• Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record.
• Willingness to travel on a rotating schedule based on project needs.
• Ability to work overtime and occasional Saturdays as required.

Preferred Qualifications

• CDL preferred.
• Experience operating Vermeer, Ditch Witch, or similar HDD equipment.
• Experience with fiber, conduit, telecom, or power utility installation.
• Knowledge of potholing, utility daylighting, pullback procedures, and restoration.
• Previous experience working on travel crews.

Schedule & Travel

This is a travel-based field position supporting Anderson Underground projects. Crews typically work a rotating travel schedule, with transportation and lodging provided. Per diem is available for working days while traveling, based on company policy.