Horizontal Directional Drill Operator

High Light Electric•Colton, CA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) Operator is responsible for safely and accurately operating directional drilling equipment to install underground utilities without trenching. This role plays a critical part in delivering high-quality infrastructure work while protecting existing utilities, maintaining equipment, and upholding strict safety standards. The HDD Operator brings precision, awareness, and accountability to the field—working closely with the crew, locators, and leadership to ensure every bore is executed correctly, efficiently, and safely. Their work directly impacts project success, schedule reliability, and jobsite safety. HDD Operators are professionals who take pride in clean execution, preparation, and teamwork. They respect the plan, communicate clearly, and stay alert at all times. Safety is never rushed, shortcuts are never acceptable, and quality is always the standard. They understand that underground work requires focus, trust, and discipline—and they operate with awareness of the responsibility that comes with drilling near live infrastructure. This position is a Union role. Employment is subject to union rules, regulations, work classifications, and collective bargaining agreements. Candidates must be eligible to work under union requirements or be willing to join the union upon hire.

Requirements

Proven experience operating Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) equipment.
Valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class A.
Strong understanding of underground utility installation and trenchless methods.
Ability to read and understand bore plans, utility markings, and construction drawings.
Knowledge of safe drilling practices near existing utilities.
Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, and perform physical labor as required on active jobsites.
Willingness to travel to project locations as assigned.
Must be able to maintain focus and situational awareness during extended drilling operations.

Nice To Haves

Experience installing conduit or fiber optic infrastructure.
Familiarity with a variety of soil conditions and drilling environments.
Bilingual (English / Spanish) a plus.
Strong teamwork mindset with the ability to work under direction and independently.

Responsibilities

Set up, operate, and monitor Horizontal Directional Drill equipment for underground utility installation (including conduit and fiber optic lines).
Accurately navigate the drill head following bore plans, depth requirements, and alignment tolerances.
Read and interpret bore profiles, utility maps, and construction drawings.
Adjust drilling techniques based on soil conditions, obstructions, and project requirements.
Coordinate closely with utility locators to identify, verify, and protect existing underground infrastructure.
Maintain constant awareness of bore location, depth, and proximity to utilities.
Follow all safety procedures and stop work immediately if unsafe conditions are identified.
Participate in job briefings, tailgate meetings, and safety discussions.
Operate and maintain HDD equipment, bore machinery, and support equipment.
Operate Digger Derrick Truck as required.
Perform daily equipment inspections and report maintenance or repair needs promptly.
Keep equipment clean, organized, and job-ready at all times.
Work closely with the drilling crew, foreman, and superintendent to execute the work plan.
Communicate progress, challenges, and changes clearly and professionally.
Support crew members during setup, drilling, pullback, and restoration activities.
Ensure all work meets project specifications, quality standards, and company expectations.
Protect jobsite organization, cleanliness, and professionalism.
Support documentation efforts related to drilling operations as needed.