Underground Drill Operator

Purpose Job Description Responsible for operating horizontal directional drilling (HDD) equipment for the installation of underground telecommunications infrastructure, executing precise boring operations while following the guidance of the Locator and adhering to safety standards and project specifications. Responsibilities Key Responsibilities: Operate horizontal directional drilling equipment including drill rigs (e.g., Vermeer, Ditch Witch) to install underground conduit and cable.Execute drilling operations based on bore plans and real-time direction from the Locator.Monitor drilling parameters including rotation, thrust/ pullback force, and drilling fluid pressure.Mix and maintain proper drilling fluid composition and monitor fluid returns.Perform pre-operational equipment inspections and regular maintenance on drilling equipment.Make adjustments to drilling parameters based on soil conditions and feedback from locating equipment.Assist with setup and breakdown of job sites including equipment positioning and staging.Maintain accurate drilling logs and documentation of completed work.Execute back-reaming operations to enlarge bore holes to appropriate diameter.Install product (conduit/ pipe) during pullback operations according to specifications.Follow all safety protocols related to underground construction and heavy equipment operation.Communicate effectively with the Locator regarding drill head position and operational status. Key Measures / Key Performance Indicators Equipment operation efficiency and productivity ratesAdherence to bore plan and specificationsEquipment maintenance and upkeep standardsSafety compliance and incident ratesDrilling fluid management effectivenessDocumentation accuracy and completenessFirst Time Right rates for bore completionCollaboration effectiveness with Locator and crew Requirements Education: High school diploma or equivalent requiredTechnical training in horizontal directional drilling or heavy equipment operation preferredIndustry certifications related to drilling operations beneficialValid Driver’s licence/ Equipment operating licence Experience 3+ years of experience operating horizontal directional drilling equipmentExperience with underground utility installationDemonstrated proficiency with various drilling rig models and sizesFamiliarity with different soil conditions and appropriate drilling techniques Exposure Knowledge of drilling fluid management and mixing ratiosUnderstanding of underground utility infrastructureFamiliarity with bore planning and execution techniquesExperience with equipment maintenance proceduresKnowledge of safety regulations related to underground constructionFactors critical to success at ITG Communications for this position:Technical proficiency with drilling equipment operation and mechanical aptitudePatience and precision in controlled drilling with ability to follow exact instructionsCommitment to safety protocols with physical stamina for extended equipment operation Physical Requirements Ability to stand, walk, and sitAbility to use hands to handle or feetAbility to reach with hands and armsAbility to stoop, kneel, crouch, bend and crawlAbility to lift up to 75 lbsAbility to maintain all safety expectationsAbility to operate equipment controls for extended periodsAbility to work in various weather conditions and terrain types Please Note This is a safety-sensitive position. The employee has responsibility for their own safety and the safety of others. The employee must be able to perform all duties in accordance with safety regulations, company policies, and client requirements. This includes but is not limited to: Following all required safety protocols and proceduresUsing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)Operating vehicles and equipment safelyMaintaining valid certifications and licenses as requiredParticipating in mandatory safety training and meetingsReporting unsafe conditions or practicesPassing required drug and alcohol screeningMaintaining physical capabilities necessary to perform essential job functions safely Failure to meet these safety requirements may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment. Additional Comments ITG is an equal employment opportunity employer. ITG’s policy is not to discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age (40 and over), disability, military status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. ITG also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories. It is also ITG’s policy to comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions.