Horizontal Directional Drill Operator

Augusta Tower Technologies, Inc.; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A telecommunications company is seeking an experienced Directional Drill Operator in Grand Rapids, MI. The role involves operating Vermeer directional drills for underground telecom work, ensuring safety and project compliance. Candidates should have 3-5 years of drilling experience and strong leadership skills. Compensation ranges from $26 to $33 per hour with full benefits and travel perks.

Benefits

Health, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Travel per diem and company-paid hotels

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3–5 years of directional drilling experience (telecommunications or utilities).
• Ability to pass background and drug screening.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, job specifications, and utility maps.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain directional drills and support equipment.
• Safely operate horizontal directional drills to install conduit, cable, and utilities.
• Develop and communicate daily work plans and project timelines.

Skills

Directional drilling experience

Leadership and communication skills

Understanding of underground utilities

Mechanical aptitude

Education

Valid Class A CDL preferred

OSHA 10 Certification preferred

Tools

Vermeer horizontal directional drills

Heavy equipment (trenchers, excavators)

Job description

Overview

Augusta Tower Technologies, Inc. is hiring an experienced Directional Drill Operator to run horizontal directional drilling equipment for underground telecom work. This is a hands-on travelling job where you’ll be out in the field every day, running the drill and making sure the work gets done safely and right the first time. We’re looking for someone who knows Vermeer drills, understands underground utilities, and can keep things moving even when the day gets tough.

Responsibilities – Drilling & Equipment Operation

• Operating and maintaining directional drills and support equipment
• Reading prints and locates, setting up shots, and keeping a safe bore path
• Completing work to spec and keeping a clean, safe job site
• Taking care of the equipment and watching out for your team
• Safely operate horizontal directional drills (Vermeer) to install conduit, cable, and utilities underground
• Work closely with the Locator to guide drilling depths, monitor progress, and avoid damage to existing utilities
• Operate and oversee additional heavy equipment such as trenchers, mini excavators, cable plows, and dump trucks
• Perform daily inspections and routine maintenance on drilling equipment, mixing units, and other jobsite machinery
• Troubleshoot and resolve equipment or drilling issues in the field
• Verify installation accuracy against project specifications, blueprints, and maps

Administrative Duties

• Develop and communicate daily work plans, bore shots, and project timelines with the crew and management
• Maintain accurate jobsite documentation, including locate tickets, safety logs, and daily reports
• Train and mentor crew members to ensure safe and productive operations
• Conduct job site assessments and verify all utilities are located and marked before work begins

Construction & Safety Duties

• Assist with potholing, remediation, setting handholes, pulling fiber, and related construction tasks
• Install conduit into existing electrical and telecommunications systems when required
• Enforce safety protocols and ensure compliance with OSHA, DOT, and company standards
• Set up and dismantle barricades, signage, and traffic control measures to maintain safe work zones
• Respond to outages, emergencies, or service disruptions as needed (occasional after-hours work may be required)

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3–5 years of directional drilling experience (telecommunications or utilities)
• Proven ability to work with crews in the field, strong leadership, and communication skills
• Experience with Vermeer horizontal directional drills required
• Strong understanding of underground utility construction methods, equipment, and safety standards
• Ability to pass background and drug screening
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, job specifications, and utility maps
• Mechanical aptitude, with the ability to perform basic equipment troubleshooting and repairs
• Valid Class A CDL preferred; candidates without a CDL may obtain one at company expense. A clean driving record is required
• OSHA 10 Certification preferred (or ability to obtain upon hire)
• Ability to lift up to 75 lbs., work outdoors in varying weather conditions, and travel as required

Compensation & Benefits

• Compensation: $26–$33 hourly
• What We Offer: Good Pay, Full Benefits (medical, dental, vision, and 401(k) with company match)
• Travel Perks: $60 daily per diem and company-paid hotel rooms
• Training & Growth: Paid training, certification renewals, and real chances to move up
• Steady Work: Growing company with a full schedule and long-term contracts