Area Manager Drilling Operations HDD

EnterSource•Murfreesboro, TN

About The Position

The Area Manager is responsible for the operational success, safety, and profitability of HDD projects within a specific geographic region. This role oversees multiple superintendents and crews, ensuring that footage targets are met, equipment is maintained, and clients are satisfied. The Area Manager reports directly to the Division Manager.

Requirements

Experience: 8–10 years in underground utility construction, with at least 5 years specifically in HDD (Horizontal Directional Drilling).
Management: 3+ years in a leadership role overseeing multiple crews or projects simultaneously.
Technical Skills: Deep understanding of drill fluid chemistry, bore-path planning (e.g., Bore-Pit or similar software), and utility locating technology.
Travel: Ability to travel 50–75% within the assigned multi-state territory.
Employment is contingent on the successful completion of a pre-employment screen, including a drug test and an acceptable driving record.

Responsibilities

Operational Oversight & Production
Financial & Contract Management
Leadership & Safety
Equipment Coordination
Monitor daily footage logs across all regional crews to ensure projects remain on schedule and within budget.
Move crews, equipment, and support staff between job sites in the region to maximize efficiency and minimize "dead time."
Conduct regular site visits to audit bore plans, mud management practices, and restoration quality.
Review regional expenses, including labor overtime, fuel, and tooling costs, to maintain target margins.
Identify and document "changed conditions" (e.g., unexpected rock or utility conflicts) and work with the Project Manager to secure change orders.
Manage local relationships with mud/bentonite suppliers, water sources, and dump sites.
Ensure all crews adhere to OSHA standards and company-specific safety protocols (e.g., strike alerts, potholing verification).
Directly manage and develop Superintendents and Foremen, identifying "high-potential" laborers for promotion to locator or operator roles.
Act as the first point of escalation for field disputes or client complaints.
Coordinate with the Fleet Manager to schedule preventive maintenance on drill rigs and trucks so it doesn't disrupt the production schedule.
Oversee the regional "tool kit" (bits, reamers, collars) to ensure crews have the right equipment for specific soil conditions (e.g., rock vs. clay).