Lead HDD Foreman & Driller - Utility Construction

Mears-Group-Inc; Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Mears Group, Inc. in Kansas City, MO is seeking an HDD Foreman/Operator to lead our drilling crew on natural gas and utility projects. You will supervise field operations, ensure safety, quality, and on-time completion, and mentor crew members on HDD techniques.

Qualified candidates have 5+ years of underground equipment operation, 2+ years in a foreman role, and strong ability to read blueprints and coordinate with project teams in a fast-paced setting.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of equipment operation in underground utility construction.
• 2+ years in a foreman or leadership role.
• Experience installing multiple utility types via HDD.
• Ability to read engineering plans, schematics, and blueprints.
• Able to operate excavators, skid steers, backhoes, and loaders.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Physical ability to work outside in various weather; frequent lifting up to 50 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Supervise daily HDD operations and schedule drilling activities to meet project timelines.
• Coordinate with project managers, crew members, subcontractors, suppliers, etc. to ensure smooth site operations.
• Guide and mentor drilling crews, maintaining high team performance and adherence to standards.
• Conduct regular inspections of work to ensure quality and compliance with project requirements.
• Resolve operational issues and equipment malfunctions to avoid project delays.
• Enforce safety protocols and ensure compliance with OSHA, company, and industry standards.
• Conduct job hazard analyses, safety meetings, and routine safety checks on equipment and job sites.
• Maintain a safe and hazard-free work environment for all personnel.
• Operate HDD rigs and related equipment to natural gas and other underground utilities.
• Read and interpret project blueprints, utility maps, and drill profiles to guide drilling operations.
• Monitor bore path alignment, depth, fluid pressure, and speed, adjusting as needed.
• Mix and manage drilling fluids (mud systems) to maintain bore stability and minimize environmental impact.
• Identify and avoid underground utilities using electronic locators and safe digging practices.
• Perform product pullback and conduit placement according to established procedures.
• Handle general site preparation, trenching, potholing, right-of-way maintenance, and site restoration.
• Conduct pre-trip inspections and perform routine maintenance on HDD equipment.
• Perform preventative maintenance and report any mechanical issues.
• Maintain equipment readiness and ensure tools and machinery are functioning properly and safely.
• Assist with equipment setup, transport, and site cleanup as needed.
• Prepare and submit daily reports on project progress, equipment use, and safety compliance.
• Maintain accurate documentation, logs, and paperwork related to operations and regulatory standards.
• All other duties as assigned.
• Travel as needed

Skills

Equipment operation

Foreman leadership

Blueprint reading

Problem solving

Safety compliance

Tools

Excavators

Skid steers

Backhoes

Loaders

Job description

Mears Group, Inc. in Kansas City, MO is seeking an HDD Foreman/Operator to lead our drilling crew on natural gas and utility projects. You will supervise field operations, ensure safety, quality, and on-time completion, and mentor crew members on HDD techniques.

Qualified candidates have 5+ years of underground equipment operation, 2+ years in a foreman role, and strong ability to read blueprints and coordinate with project teams in a fast-paced setting.