Traveling Horizontal Directional Drill Operator

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Traveling Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) Operator to join our underground utility team. This position requires operating directional boring rigs for fiber, conduit, and utility installations across various job sites throughout Oregon. The ideal candidate brings strong equipment operating skills, a safety-first mindset, and the flexibility to travel statewide.

Job Type

Full-time | Location: Statewide Oregon (Travel Required)

What You’ll Do

• Equipment Operation: Set up, calibrate, and operate directional drill rigs (e.g., Vermeer, Ditch Witch) to perform precise underground bores for utility installations.
• CDL Driving & Transport: Drive Class A vehicles (flatbeds, semi-trucks, trailer combinations) to haul drill rigs, mud vacuum systems, pipe, and heavy machinery safely to job sites across Oregon.
• Site Preparation & Safety: Perform pre-bore inspections, verify 811 utility locates, and oversee potholing to visually expose underground utilities prior to drilling.
• Fluids & Equipment Care: Mix and monitor drilling fluids (bentonite/polymers) appropriate for local soil conditions. Perform daily preventative maintenance (greasing, fluid checks, minor field repairs).
• Crew Coordination: Work closely with the locator/tracker, field laborers, and site foremen to maintain line and grade while ensuring compliance with safety standards and traffic control plans.
• Travel & Site Readiness: Travel extensively to active project sites across Oregon, remaining on-site for the duration of scheduled regional jobs.

What You’ll Need

• Licensing: Valid Class A CDL with a clean driving record (Tanker endorsement preferred for water/mud haulers).
• Experience: Minimum of 1–3+ years of hands-on experience operating HDD drill rigs in utility construction.
• Statewide Travel: Ability and willingness to travel extensively throughout Oregon, including overnight stays as project schedules require.
• Technical Knowledge: Understanding of ground conditions, mud mixing ratios, and reading utility prints/blueprints.
• Physical Demands: Ability to lift up to 50–70 lbs, work in varied outdoor weather conditions, and perform manual labor as needed (digging, rigging equipment).

Why grow your career with us

Your career here is more than just a job — it's your pathway to opportunity. Our hands-on training, supportive environment, and responsive leadership connect you to work with purpose. Our commitment to you extends beyond professional development to a safety-first culture that ensures you can do what you do best, with peace of mind.

Building stronger solutions together

We are an equal-opportunity employer — we are committed to providing a work environment where everyone can thrive, grow, and feel connected.