Horizontal Directional Drill Locator

The HDD Locator is responsible for monitoring and guiding horizontal directional drilling operations by accurately reading and interpreting locating equipment. This role ensures bore paths are completed safely, efficiently, and according to engineered design. The Locator works closely with the HDD Operator, Foreman, and field crew to avoid underground utilities, maintain proper depth and alignment, and ensure successful completions of pilot bores and pullbacks.

Responsibilities

Operate and interpret HDD locating equipment to track drill head position, depth, pitch, and direction; Communicate continuous drilling feedback to the HDD Operator; Guide bores according to design specifications, prints, and utility locates; Adjust bore path in real-time to avoid conflicts with existing underground utilities; Maintain strict adherence to OSHA, company, and industry safety standards; Participate in daily safety meetings and job hazard analyses (JHAs); Ensure safe digging practices around active utilities and sensitive infrastructure; Assist with potholing, hand-digging, and exposure of utilities as required; Record bore logs, depth measurements, shots, and tracking information; Assist with as-built documentation and production records; Report deviations, obstructions, or abnormal conditions to the Foreman; Assist with setup of drilling equipment, mud systems, and work areas; Support the crew during pullback, reaming, and equipment movement activities; Help maintain a clean and organized job site; Maintain locating equipment (transmitters, receivers, batteries, chargers) in good working order; Perform daily function checks to ensure accuracy and calibration; Report equipment issues immediately

Requirements

1–3 years of locating experience in HDD, utilities, or underground construction; Strong understanding of bore planning, underground utilities, and safe digging practices; Ability to read construction prints, utility locates and bore path designs; Excellent communication skills for real-time coordination with the Operator; Strong situational awareness and problem-solving ability; Ability to work in fast-paced outdoor environments; Valid driver’s license required; Ability to lift 50–75 lbs regularly; Work outdoors in varying weather and terrain conditions; Ability to walk long distances, bend, stoop, and stand for extended periods; Ability to work in trenches, near roadways, and around active equipment

Nice to have

Experience with Ditch Witch, Subsite, DigiTrak, or Vermeer locating systems; OSP telecommunications experience; Class A CDL; OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification; Manufacturer training on locating equipment

Benefits

Health, dental, vision, short & long-term disability benefits; Eligibility for benefits the first of the month following start date; Vanguard 401(k) plan with 5% company match and immediate vesting; 10 paid company holidays; Generous PTO accrual schedule; Health & wellness programs that can help earn discounts on health premiums