HDD Operator/Locator

Digco Utility Construction LP•Shreveport, LA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

DIGCO, a Quanta Services company based in Houston, provides infrastructure construction and support services to the natural gas distribution market, including construction, maintenance, and repair of steel and poly gas lines, as well as utility field services. The company emphasizes career development, inclusion, safe working conditions, and making a positive impact on the environment. The HDD Operator/Locator supports underground gas utility construction projects by operating horizontal directional drilling equipment and locating drilling paths. The role ensures bores are completed safely, accurately, and in accordance with project specifications and company standards. Work is performed with company-provided equipment as part of a construction crew in field environments. The position requires travel within the assigned district and surrounding service area, flexibility to work long hours and overtime, and the ability to work outdoors in varying and extreme weather conditions.

Requirements

Experience operating HDD equipment in the 5,000 to 40,000 lb thrust class and/or above-ground locating systems in underground utility construction.
Demonstrated understanding of bore path tracking, drill path planning, and underground utility locating practices.
Ability to read and interpret utility maps, bore plans, and construction drawings.
Dependable and able to work in a team environment.
Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively in active field construction environments.
Ability to work safely around underground utilities and energized infrastructure.
Strong reading skills to understand bore plans, safety requirements, and construction signage.
Must pass a pre-employment drug test and subsequent random drug tests.
Strong attention to safety and quality workmanship.
Willingness to travel within the assigned district and surrounding service area as required.
Ability to work in high-stress environments with extreme weather fluctuations.
Willingness to work overtime and weekends as needed.

Nice To Haves

Preferred experience in the construction, pipeline, or gas distribution industry.
Bilingual or Spanish-speaking abilities.

Responsibilities

Operate HDD equipment in the 5,000 to 40,000 lb thrust class to perform pilot bore, reaming, and pullback operations for underground gas utility installation.
Operate above-ground locating systems to track and guide bore path alignment, depth, and pitch during drilling.
Read and interpret utility locates, bore plans, jobsite layouts, and construction drawings to plan and execute directional bore operations.
Monitor bore path alignment and communicate adjustments to crew members to maintain accuracy and avoid utility conflicts.
Manage drilling fluid mixing, circulation, and disposal in accordance with project and environmental requirements.
Set up, inspect, and change tooling, including drill bits, reamers, and pullback assemblies.
Conduct daily pre-operation inspections of HDD and locating equipment and promptly report maintenance needs.
Assist with potholing, utility verification, and jobsite preparation before and during drilling operations.
Follow company and client safety procedures for excavation, directional drilling, and underground utility operations.
Use required personal protective equipment at all times on the job site.
Coordinate with crew members to support underground utility construction operations.
Perform job tasks safely in accordance with company policy.
Maintain a clean and organized job site and secure tools and equipment daily.
Work long hours and in all types of weather conditions as required.
Perform other duties as required.