Directional Drill Equipment Operator

Team Kline•Des Moines, IA

About The Position

The Directional Drill Equipment Operator safely operates assigned heavy equipment and support vehicles to install, expose, and support underground utility infrastructure. Depending on project and crew needs, equipment may include horizontal directional drills, hydro excavation units, mini excavators, skid loaders, dump trucks, trailers, and related machinery. The operator works with the Foreman and field crew to complete work safely, efficiently, and accurately while minimizing impacts to existing utilities and surrounding property. Core drill work includes setting up and operating the drill, following bore plans, coordinating with the locator, and completing pullback. The primary equipment, vehicle, and work methods may vary by project, location, qualifications, and business need. Employees are expected to perform the core duties but may not operate every type of equipment listed. The position requires outdoor work in varied weather and site conditions, operation of heavy machinery for extended periods, and the ability to travel and work overtime, weekends, or irregular schedules as needed.

Requirements

HDD training or experience; CDL as required.
Reliable transportation to and from assigned work locations.
Valid driver’s license, acceptable driving record, and ability to remain insurable under the company’s vehicle insurance policy.
Class A CDL and applicable endorsements are required based on assignment; ability to obtain them within three months of hire may be considered.
Ability to meet applicable DOT and FMCSA requirements, including required drug and alcohol testing.
Successful completion of pre-employment and periodic MVR reviews.
Ability to complete required training and equipment-specific qualifications or certifications.
Ability to travel and work overtime, weekends, or irregular schedules as needed.
Ability to safely operate equipment and understand underground utility hazards.
Mechanical aptitude and basic troubleshooting ability.
Ability to read utility locates, plans, and work instructions.
Frequently stand, walk, bend, kneel, squat, crouch, climb, and work on uneven terrain; work in trenches, confined spaces, or at heights when the assignment requires.
Frequently lift, carry, push, and pull materials or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds and occasionally up to 75 pounds; use assistance or mechanical means for heavier loads.
Possess the visual, auditory, and physical ability necessary to safely operate equipment, communicate with the crew, and identify hazards.
Safely wear and use required PPE, including hard hats, safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, high-visibility apparel, and safety-toe boots.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or equivalent.
Experience operating construction or underground utility equipment; proficiency with assigned equipment may be required.
Knowledge of underground utility construction, utility locates, equipment inspections, and preventive maintenance.

Responsibilities

Safely operate assigned heavy equipment, vehicles, trailers, and support machinery, including directional drills, hydrovac units, mini excavators, skid loaders, and dump trucks, when trained and authorized.
Perform underground utility installation, excavation, daylighting, potholing, trenching, boring, pullback, and material-handling activities based on project needs.
Review utility locates, plans, bore profiles, and site conditions to identify hazards, protect existing utilities, and maintain installation accuracy.
Complete required equipment inspections, preventive maintenance, cleaning, basic troubleshooting, and documentation.
Promptly report equipment defects, unsafe conditions, incidents, near misses, property damage, and repair needs.
Assist with jobsite setup, traffic control, excavation support, cleanup, grading, backfilling, seeding, concrete work, and other restoration activities.
Follow OSHA requirements, company safety policies, damage-prevention practices, and PPE requirements.
Communicate job progress, changing conditions, delays, hazards, and equipment concerns to the Foreman and crew.
Collaborate with employees, supervisors, inspectors, utility owners, and customers to complete quality work safely and efficiently.
Assist with training less-experienced employees when directed and qualified.
Maintain a professional appearance and represent the company positively.
Perform other duties reasonably related to the position as assigned.