Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) Locator

Location: Carson City, Nevada (Onsite)

About the role

This position is for a Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) Locator on behalf of a telecommunications infrastructure contractor engaged in building underground fiber networks. This is a direct-hire role where the selected candidate will be an employee of the contractor from the start. The primary responsibility is to guide the drill head during boring operations by tracking it with a receiver and communicating depth, pitch, and alignment to the drill operator. This is a critical role on a bore crew, distinct from standalone utility locating or damage prevention.

Responsibilities

• Locate and track the drill head using locating equipment throughout drilling operations.
• Communicate depth, pitch, and alignment information clearly and continuously to the HDD Operator.
• Verify the bore path complies with approved plans and utility clearance requirements.
• Monitor bore progress to prevent conflicts with existing utilities or structures.
• Manage signal interference and recalibrate equipment when site conditions degrade tracking.
• Review utility locates, one-call markings, and site plans prior to drilling.
• Maintain awareness of underground risks and stop work if unsafe conditions arise.
• Record bore data, depths, and alignment details to support as-built documentation.

Requirements

• Hands-on experience locating for an HDD crew or closely related underground utility locating experience.
• Working knowledge of at least one locating platform (such as DigiTrak, Subsite, or Falcon).
• Solid understanding of bore guidance and ability to read construction drawings.
• Effective communication skills.
• Valid driver’s license, acceptable driving record, and legal authorization to work in the United States.
• 18 years of age or older.
• Able to pass a pre-employment background check and drug screen.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience as an HDD Locator, with two or more years on a production bore crew.
• Experience with multiple locating platforms (DigiTrak, Subsite, Falcon).
• Background in telecom, fiber, or outside plant construction.
• Experience managing interference in congested utility corridors.
• 811 or utility damage prevention background.
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification.
• Flagger, traffic control, or trenching and excavation training.
• Class A or Class B CDL.

Work Environment

This is a physically demanding field role performed almost entirely on foot. The position requires walking the length of a bore path repeatedly across uneven ground and working outdoors year-round in various weather conditions, including heat, cold, and wind. The work involves lifting up to 50 pounds, as well as standing, bending, and kneeling for a full shift. Crews operate in rural and high desert environments, and some assignments may require travel. The employer provides all necessary locating equipment, work vehicles, and safety gear, including protective equipment for rural work areas.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance plans.
• Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP).
• 401K program with company match after 12 months of tenure.
• Health Savings Account (HSA) on the HDHP plan.
• SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with up to 8 free counseling sessions.
• Corporate discount savings program and other discounts.
• On-demand training program and access to certification prep, technical and leadership courses, books, and seminars after 6+ months of tenure.
• Certification discounts and perks for associations including CompTIA and IIBA.
• Dedicated customer service team and certified Career Coach.