Horizontal Directional Driller

InterCon Construction; Madison (WI); On-site; USD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Five Star Infrastructure Services in Wisconsin is seeking a skilled Horizontal Directional Driller (HDD) to operate drilling rigs for underground utilities installations.

You will read maps, follow plans, ensure bore path accuracy, perform inspections and work with a locator crew. The role involves outdoor conditions, field travel, and strict safety adherence.

Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year of HDD equipment operation experience.
• Proficient with tracking and locating systems (DigiTrak, Subsite).
• Valid CDL Class A or B with clean driving record preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and utility locates.

Responsibilities

• Operate HDD rigs and related equipment to drill and install underground utilities.
• Read and interpret utility maps, blueprints, and project plans.
• Set up and breakdown drilling equipment safely and efficiently.
• Monitor drilling progress and adjust to meet project specifications.
• Perform pre- and post-trip inspections, maintenance, and minor repairs on equipment.
• Collaborate with locator and crew to ensure bore path accuracy and job completion.
• Track and record bore data including depths and distances.
• Adhere to all company safety policies, OSHA guidelines, and local regulations.
• Maintain clean and organized work sites and communicate with supervisors and clients.

Skills

HDD operation

Blueprints read

Mechanical aptitude

Travel to job sites

Education

High School Diploma

Tools

DigiTrak

Subsite

Vermeer

Ditch Witch

Job description

Job Summary

We are seeking a skilled and experienced Horizontal Directional Driller (HDD Driller) to operate drilling equipment for the installation of underground utilities, pipelines, or conduits using horizontal directional drilling methods. This position will be supporting operations in Wisconsin. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of HDD operations, safety procedures, and the ability to interpret plans, locate utilities, and guide drilling operations with precision.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate horizontal directional drilling rigs and related equipment to drill and install underground utilities (e.g., fiber optics, water, gas, sewer, electric).
• Read and interpret utility maps, blueprints, and project plans.
• Set up and breakdown drilling equipment safely and efficiently.
• Monitor drilling progress, adjusting as needed to avoid underground obstacles and meet project specifications.
• Perform pre- and post-trip inspections, maintenance, and minor repairs on equipment.
• Collaborate with locator and crew to ensure bore path accuracy and job completion.
• Track and record bore data including depths, distances, mud usage, and obstructions.
• Adhere to all company safety policies, OSHA guidelines, and local regulations.
• Maintain clean and organized work sites, minimizing disruption to surrounding areas.
• Communicate with supervisors, inspectors, and clients as needed to ensure alignment and clarity on job requirements.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED); technical training is a plus.
• Minimum 1 year of experience operating HDD equipment (e.g., Vermeer, Ditch Witch).
• Proficient with tracking and locating systems (e.g., DigiTrak, Subsite).
• Valid CDL (Class A or B) with clean driving record preferred.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and utility locates.
• Knowledge of drilling fluids and mixing procedures.
• Comfortable working in outdoor conditions and physically demanding environments.
• Willingness to travel to job sites as needed.

Work Environment

Outdoor fieldwork in varying weather conditions. Extended hours, including weekends or evenings, may be required based on project demands. Physically demanding must be able to lift 50+ lbs, stand, bend, and kneel for long periods.

Five Star Infrastructure Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment on account of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, mental or physical disability, veteran status, or any other category protected by law. Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer ****