Job Description
Directional Drill Operator GridSource is seeking an experienced
Directional Drill Operator to join our underground utility construction team in LaPlace, LA. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience operating horizontal directional drilling equipment, tracking drill heads, locating underground utilities, and safely installing underground infrastructure.
The Directional Drill Operator will be responsible for safely and efficiently operating HDD equipment while working closely with the locator and construction crew to complete bore operations according to project plans, specifications, and safety requirements.
What You'll Do - Operate horizontal directional drilling equipment , including Ditch Witch and Vermeer drill rigs.
- Safely perform pilot bores, reaming, and product pullbacks.
- Operate the drill rig while maintaining proper bore alignment, depth, pitch, and grade.
- Work closely with the drill locator to monitor and maintain the planned bore path.
- Read and interpret bore profiles, construction drawings, utility maps, and project specifications.
- Identify and avoid existing underground utilities and other potential obstructions.
- Communicate continuously with the locator and crew throughout drilling operations.
- Make adjustments to drilling operations based on ground conditions, utility conflicts, bore path, and jobsite conditions.
- Monitor drilling pressure, torque, fluid flow, and other equipment operating conditions.
- Select and change appropriate drill heads, tooling, reamers, and drilling accessories based on soil and project conditions.
- Assist with mixing and maintaining drilling fluid according to project requirements.
- Monitor drilling fluid returns and identify potential bore or ground-condition issues.
- Perform or assist with potholing and daylighting of existing utilities.
- Safely complete product pullbacks while protecting HDPE pipe, conduit, and other installed materials.
- Operate excavation and support equipment as needed, including excavators and other construction machinery.
- Assist with underground gas, telecommunications, broadband, and other utility installations.
- Perform basic equipment inspections, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
- Maintain drilling equipment, tooling, and work areas in safe operating condition.
- Follow all OSHA requirements, company safety policies, utility-owner requirements, and project-specific procedures.
- Identify hazards and communicate unsafe conditions immediately.
- Maintain required PPE and ensure safe work practices are followed throughout drilling operations.
- Complete daily production reports, bore documentation, and other required paperwork.
- Work with foremen, locators, laborers, inspectors, utility representatives, and project management to resolve field issues.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and professional jobsite.
- Assist with other underground construction activities when drilling operations are not underway.
What You'll Need - Previous experience as a Directional Drill Operator, HDD Operator, Drill Operator, or similar underground construction position .
- Hands-on experience operating Ditch Witch, Vermeer, or comparable directional drilling equipment.
- Strong understanding of HDD operations and underground utility construction.
- Ability to work effectively with a drill locator and construction crew.
- Ability to read and follow construction drawings, bore plans, utility markings, and jobsite instructions.
- Knowledge of underground utility locating and safe excavation practices.
- Experience operating excavators and other construction equipment is a plus.
- Experience with HDPE electrofusion and butt fusion is a plus.
- Gas utility construction experience is a plus.
- Current Louisiana CDL or Class D driver's license preferred .
- Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to perform basic equipment troubleshooting.
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and potentially hazardous environments.
- Ability to perform physically demanding construction work, including lifting, digging, climbing, bending, and standing for extended periods.
- Willingness to work extended or irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, based on project requirements.
- Dependable attendance and a strong commitment to safety and quality.
What We Offer
- $20-$25 per hour , depending on experience
- Paid Training
- Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
- Vacation Pay
- Holiday Pay
- Great Advancement Opportunities
Why Work for Gridsource? GridSource is committed to building a professional, safety-focused team that takes pride in quality underground construction. We value experienced field leaders who can operate equipment, solve problems in the field, lead crews, and deliver projects safely and efficiently.
GridSource is a proud supporter of our U.S. military, veterans, and their families. Active military members, transitioning service members, and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply.
GridSource strives to hire, recruit, and promote associates without regard to race, color, gender, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, or veteran status. GridSource is an Affirmative Action Equal Opportunity Employer and will make reasonable accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Job Tags
Hourly pay, Immediate start, Afternoon shift