Driller/Locator

About the Role

The HDD Driller / Locator is responsible for accurately locating and guiding the drill head during horizontal directional drilling (HDD) operations for underground fiber and utility installations. This role is critical to safely navigating bore paths, avoiding existing utilities, and ensuring projects are completed efficiently, accurately, and in compliance with safety and quality standards. The position requires close coordination with the drill operator, strong situational awareness, and a high level of accountability.

Responsibilities

• Locate and track the drill head in real time using electronic locating equipment to ensure accurate bore alignment, depth control, and safe utility clearance.
• Communicate continuously with the drill operator to provide precise guidance on pitch, depth, direction, and corrections during drilling operations.
• Review construction plans, utility locates, bore profiles, and job specifications prior to drilling.
• Participate in pre-drill and job hazard analysis (JHA) meetings to identify risks, utility conflicts, and mitigation strategies.
• Identify, verify, and protect existing underground utilities in compliance with 811/One Call and project requirements.
• Assist with drill setup, steering corrections, pullback operations, and bore documentation as needed.
• Maintain, calibrate, and properly operate locating equipment and related tools.
• Exercise strong self-management and situational awareness while working independently alongside the drill operator.
• Enforce safety policies and best practices to protect crew members, the public, and surrounding infrastructure.
• Coordinate with foremen, project managers, inspectors, and utility representatives as required.
• Travel to project locations and support field operations as assigned.
• Work outdoors in all weather conditions, including extreme cold, heat, rain, snow, and high winds.
• Perform additional HDD and underground construction duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Minimum of 1 year of experience as an HDD Locator, Driller/Locator, or similar role in underground utilities, fiber OSP, or telecommunications construction.
• Strong knowledge of HDD locating systems, bore steering techniques, and underground utility avoidance.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, bore profiles, utility locates, and as-built documentation.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to give clear, concise instructions during active drilling.
• Proven ability to work independently while maintaining coordination with the drill operator and crew.
• Strong commitment to safety and the ability to recognize and stop unsafe conditions.
• Physical ability to perform field work, including walking bore paths, lifting equipment, and working in challenging terrain and weather.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record; CDL preferred.
• Willingness to travel extensively, including overnight and out-of-area assignments as required.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

This position involves continuous outdoor field work and frequent travel to project sites. Work is performed in a wide range of environmental conditions, including extreme temperatures, uneven terrain, and high-traffic areas. The role requires sustained focus, physical stamina, and strict adherence to safety protocols while working around active underground utilities and heavy equipment.

Benefits

• Competitive base pay and comprehensive benefits package.
• Vanguard 401(k) plan with immediate vesting and generous company match.
• 10 paid company holidays and generous PTO accrual schedule.
• Access to discounts on useful products and services.

Network Connex is an equal opportunity employer. Upon accepting an offer, all candidates must pass a background check and drug screening. AI tools may assist in the hiring process, but final decisions are made by humans.