Directional Drill Locator

A Directional Drill Locator (also known as an HDD Locator) is a specialized professional responsible for guiding a drilling crew through underground terrain to install infrastructure while avoiding existing utilities. In this position, you will be the "eyes" of the drilling operation. You will use advanced electronic equipment to track the position, depth, and direction of the drill head in real-time, communicating vital steering data to the drill operator. Your primary goal is to ensure the bore path follows the engineered plan while preventing "strikes" to buried gas, electric, water, or telecommunications lines.

Core Responsibilities:

• Drill Head Tracking: Operate specialized HDD locating systems (e.g., Subsite, Falcon, or Vermeer) to monitor the drill head's location, angle, and temperature during active boring.
• Utility Identification: Use electromagnetic (EM) locators and ground-penetrating radar (GPR) to identify and mark existing underground utilities before drilling begins.
• Real-Time Communication: Provide constant verbal or hand-signal guidance to the drill operator to adjust the bore path and avoid obstacles.
• Site Preparation: Read and interpret utility maps, blueprints, and "811" tickets; conduct site inspections to identify potential hazards like soil changes or congested infrastructure.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate bore logs and project records, including depth readings and as-built sketches for the completed installation.
• Support Operations: Assist the crew with mixing drilling fluids ("mud"), setting up the drill rig, and "daylighting" (potholing) to visually confirm the location of critical utility crossings.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Experience: Typically 1–3 years of experience in horizontal directional drilling (HDD) and/or utility locating.
• Technical Proficiency: Ability to operate and calibrate electronic locating receivers and transmitters (beacons).
• Map Reading: Strong ability to interpret civil engineering drawings, G.I.S. data, and utility "as-built" plans.
• Physical Stamina: Ability to walk 3–5 miles per day across uneven terrain and lift up to 50–80 lbs in various weather conditions.
• Communication: Exceptional listening and verbal skills to coordinate safely with the drill operator and foremen.
• Licensing: A valid driver’s license is required; a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with Tanker endorsement is often preferred for operating support vehicles.

Typical Work Environment:

• Outdoor Fieldwork: 100% onsite in various weather conditions (heat, rain, snow).
• Travel: May require daily travel to different job sites or occasional overnight stays depending on the project scope.
• Safety Critical: Requires strict adherence to OSHA standards and the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).