Drill Locator

Core Services

Rail construction, maintenance of way, bridge and structural repair, emergency response services, directional boring operations, signal conduit installation, jack and bore operations, grading, earthwork, rail inspections, and railroad rehabilitation.

Job Location

Dallas/Houston
Travel: Approximately 75–100% travel required depending on project assignments and active job site locations.

Reports To

Foreman / Superintendent

Reason for Hire

This position is critical to supporting Capital Railroad Contracting's expanding project portfolio and continued investment in railroad infrastructure, utility installation, and directional drilling services throughout the Midwest.

Position Summary

The Drill Locator/Laborer is responsible for supporting directional drilling and underground utility installation projects by accurately locating drill heads, assisting drill crews, performing labor activities, and supporting daily project execution.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Operate electronic locating equipment to accurately track and guide drill heads during directional drilling operations
• Communicate continuously with drill operators to maintain alignment and bore path accuracy
• Verify utility clearances and identify potential conflicts throughout drilling activities
• Mark underground utility paths and drilling locations according to project requirements
• Maintain monitoring drilling progress to ensure compliance with project specifications
• Assist drill crews with setup, mobilization, and demobilization activities
• Load, unload, organize, and transport construction materials and equipment
• Assist with conduit installation, utility placement, restoration activities, and site cleanup
• Perform hand digging, potholing, shoveling, and other general labor duties as required
• Support railroad, utility, and civil construction activities as assigned
• Coverage of equipment maintenance
• Conduct routine inspections of locating equipment and associated field tools
• Maintain proper operating condition of locating equipment, vehicles, and support tools
• Report equipment concerns, damages, and maintenance requirements to supervisors
• Ensure all equipment is properly stored, secured, and maintained
• Follow company safety policies, regulatory requirements, and project-specific procedures
• Utilize required personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Participate in safety meetings, inspections, and training programs
• Adhere to lockout/tagout procedures and safe operating practices
• Maintain awareness of underground utilities and construction hazards
• Record locating information, drilling progress, and field observations
• Complete project documentation and daily activity reports
• Report operational issues, utility conflicts, and project concerns to supervisors
• Aid in project reporting requirements
• Coordinate with drill operators, foremen, superintendents, and fellow crew members
• Support daily project activities and assist where needed
• Maintain a clean, organized, and professional work environment

Experience & Skills

• 1–5 years of experience as a Drill Locator, Utility Locator, HDD Locator, Laborer, or similar underground utility construction role
• Experience with directional drilling, utility construction, railroad construction, pipeline construction, or civil infrastructure projects preferred
• Knowledge of underground utility locating techniques and equipment
• Experience operating locating systems and reading utility markings preferred
• Proven ability to work safely in demanding outdoor construction environments
• Ability to travel extensively and support multiple project sites as required
• Valid driver's license required; CDL A preferred

Compensation

$30/HR Plus OTE
Paid time off (PTO): 2 weeks
Paid holidays
Sick time
Medical, dental, vision, life insurances
Wellness program
Flexible spending accounts
Tuition reimbursement