(HDD) Steerhand / Locator

McCall-Thomas Engineering; Orangeburg (SC); On-site; USD 39,000 - 63,000; Full time

Job summary

McCall-Thomas Engineering Company, Inc. seeks an HDD Locator to support underground telecom, power, water, sewer and gas projects. This 1099 contract role requires travel across GA, NC and SC.

You will operate HDD locating gear, read prints, and coordinate with the Drill Operator to maintain accuracy and safety. Responsibilities include monitoring bore location and depth, identifying utilities, keeping logs, and assisting with setup, mud mixing, and daily inspections.

Qualifications

• HS diploma or GED required; CDL-A preferred.
• Valid driver’s license with clean driving record.
• Experience in HDD locating or utility construction.
• Ability to read construction prints and utility maps.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Operate HDD locating equipment and monitor bore location, depth, and alignment.
• Communicate with the Drill Operator during bore operations.
• Read and interpret utility locates, prints, and bore plans.
• Identify and avoid existing underground utilities.
• Maintain bore logs and job documentation; assist with setup and teardown.

Skills

Strong communication

Teamwork

Mechanical aptitude

Outdoor work tolerance

Education

HS diploma or GED

CDL-A

Tools

DigiTrak

Subsite

Locating systems

Job description

McCall Thomas Engineering Company, Inc. is seeking a Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) Locator to work with our construction crews to install underground telecommunications, power, water, sewer, and gas infrastructure. This will be a 1099 contract position. Travel will be required for this position- primarily in GA, NC and SC.

About McCall-Thomas Engineering

McCall-Thomas Engineering is a trusted leader in the Electrical and Telecommunications industry, committed to delivering innovative and reliable solutions. With expertise in Communications Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electric Utility Services, and Field Operations, we provide comprehensive turn-key projects tailored to meet our clients' needs. At McCall-Thomas Engineering we have been providing quality engineering and technical services since 1945.

This HDD Steerhand / Locator is responsible for tracking and guiding underground directional drilling operations for utility construction projects. This position works closely with the Drill Operator and crew members to safely install underground telecommunications, power, water, sewer, and gas infrastructure while maintaining production, accuracy, and safety standards.

Primary Responsibilities

• Operate HDD locating equipment and monitor drill head location, depth, and alignment.
• Communicate continuously with the Drill Operator during bore operations.
• Read and interpret utility locates, construction prints, and bore plans.
• Ensure bores are completed according to project specifications and tolerances.
• Identify and avoid existing underground utilities.
• Assist with drill setup, teardown, and daily equipment inspections.
• Maintain accurate bore logs and job documentation as required.
• Perform potholing and verification of underground utilities.
• Assist with mud mixing, tooling changes, and jobsite preparation.
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment.
• Follow all OSHA, company, and customer safety requirements.
• Assist labor crews with general construction duties when needed.
• Travel and overtime may be required depending on workload and project schedules.

Qualifications

• HS diploma or GED
• Valid driver's license with clean driving record
• Eligibility to work in the US without any form of sponsorship
• Previous HDD locating or utility construction experience
• Ability to operate locating systems such as DigiTrak, Subsite, or similar equipment
• Understanding of underground utility construction practices
• Ability to read construction drawings and utility maps
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Must pass background check, MVR review, and drug screening if required
• CDL-A

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and lift up to 75 lbs.
• Ability to work in outdoor environments including heat, cold, mud, and uneven terrain.
• Ability to work long hours, weekends, and emergency callouts when necessary.

Preferred Certifications

• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30
• First Aid/CPR
• Flagging
• CDL License
• Utility locating certifications or HDD manufacturer training

Work Environment

• Outdoor construction environment in varying weather conditions
• Exposure to heavy equipment and underground utilities
• Fast-paced utility construction projects with production deadlines

Benefits are not available to 1099 contract employees, but will be offered if converting to a full-time regular hire.