NPL Directional Drill Operator

Centuri Group, Inc.•Hampton, VA

5d•Onsite

About The Position

At NPL, part of The Centuri Organization, our employees are part of an established team working to support America’s natural gas utility and energy infrastructure. Working at NPL means you are joining a company with over 50 years of experience, long-standing customer relationships, and one that is deeply integrated into our host communities. Come grow your career with us and be a part of something bigger. As a Directional Drill Operator with NPL Construction, you’ll play a critical role in safely installing underground natural gas infrastructure. Working closely with a Locator as your counterpart, you will operate horizontal directional drilling (HDD) equipment to bore, place conduit, and support underground utility installation. This position requires strong technical skill, high situational awareness, and the ability to work safely within active job sites. All crew members contribute to general labor duties as needed to get the job done safely and efficiently.

Requirements

CDL-A required (ability to haul drilling rigs and support equipment).
Prior experience operating horizontal directional drilling equipment.
Knowledge of cross-bore awareness and safe digging practices.
Ability to read and interpret maps, blueprints, and locate marks.
1+ year experience operating heavy equipment near underground utilities.
Ability to work safely in fast-changing field conditions.
Strong communication skills and a commitment to teamwork.
High school diploma or equivalent.
Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
Ability to obtain and maintain OQ qualifications.

Responsibilities

Operate horizontal directional drilling equipment to complete bore shots safely and accurately.
Work in tandem with a Locator to plan bore paths, avoid conflicts, and ensure safe excavation.
Read and interpret maps, blueprints, and utility locate marks to support drilling operations.
Identify, locate, and avoid underground natural gas lines and other utilities.
Load, transport, and unload HDD equipment, tooling, and materials (requires CDL-A).
Perform daily pre-trip, post-trip, and equipment inspections; document any issues.
Conduct routine maintenance and cleaning on drilling equipment, trucks, and tooling.
Maintain all required Operator Qualifications (OQs) and safety certifications.
Communicate clearly with the crew, leadership, and customers when applicable.
Assist with general labor as needed, including excavation, site clean-up, and restoration.
Follow all safety protocols while working within the red zone of heavy equipment.
Complete all required production and documentation logs.