Horizontal Directional Driller

Five Star Infrastructure Services, dBA InterCon/Five Star Energy Services/M&C Utility; Rhinelander (WI); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Five Star Infrastructure Services, dBA InterCon/Five Star Energy Services/M&C Utility is seeking a skilled Horizontal Directional Driller (HDD Driller) to operate drilling equipment for underground utilities using HDD methods. This role supports projects in Wisconsin, requiring precise bore path guidance and safety-conscious operations.

The ideal candidate will understand HDD operations, read plans and locator data, maintain equipment, and work outdoors in varying conditions, with willingness to

Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year of HDD equipment experience.
• Proficient with locating systems (DigiTrak, Subsite).
• Valid CDL (Class A or B) with clean record preferred.
• Read and interpret construction drawings and utility locates.
• Willingness to travel to job sites.

Responsibilities

• Operate HDD rigs 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 avoid underground obstacles.
• Perform pre- and post-trip inspections and maintenance on equipment.
• Collaborate with locator and crew for bore path accuracy and job completion.
• Track bore data including depths, distances, mud usage, and obstructions.
• Adhere to company safety policies, OSHA guidelines, and local regulations.
• Maintain clean and organized work sites.
• Communicate with supervisors, inspectors, and clients to ensure alignment on requirements.

Skills

HDD operation

Blueprint reading

Safety procedures

Equipment troubleshooting

Physical stamina

Team communication

Travel readiness

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Vermeer HDD rigs

Ditch Witch

DigiTrak

Subsite

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.