HDD Operator

Description The south-central leader in construction services for telephone and fiber line installation for over 50 years, Klaasmeyer Construction Company is looking for our next HDD Operator to join the Field Operations team. We're hiring our next operator to run bores to lay and pull underground piping that keeps our communities connected. You'll be running bores for pulling and installing underground utilities — the kind of work that keeps our communities connected.

Requirements What You'll Be Doing

• Operating the HDD rig to bore underground pathways for conduit and fiber optic cable installation
• Planning bore paths from project drawings and utility locate sheets, then executing them in the field
• Running pilot bores, pre-ream passes, and product pullback from start to finish
• Managing drilling fluid mix and pressure to maintain bore integrity and control spoils
• Tracking bore head location and depth using remote guidance systems
• Coordinating with your locator and bore crew to keep operations moving safely and on schedule
• Performing daily rig inspections, routine maintenance, and keeping your equipment in top working condition
• Documenting bore logs, footage, fluid usage, and daily production accurately

What We Need From You

• 2–4 years of verifiable HDD rig operating experience — telecom, utility, or underground construction background preferred
• Experience with pilot bore, reaming, and pullback operations
• Proven air hammer drill experience
• Proficient with remote bore tracking systems (DigiTrak, Subsite, or equivalent)
• Comfortable operating mid-to-large class rigs (Vermeer, Ditch Witch, American Augers, or similar)
• Working knowledge of drilling fluid management and soil conditions
• Understanding of 811/one-call processes and underground utility protection
• Valid driver's license required; CDL a plus
• OSHA 10 preferred or willingness to obtain; OSHA 30 a plus
• Willing to travel overnight or out-of-state when projects require it

The Physical Reality This is heavy construction work. You'll be outside in all weather, operating a drill rig, handling pipe and tooling, and working around pressurized equipment and underground utilities every day.

• Regular lifting of drill pipe, tooling, and equipment — up to 50–75+ lbs.
• Standing and walking on uneven terrain for full shift durations
• Extended periods at the rig console during active bore operations
• Outdoor work in heat, cold, rain, and mud — all year round
• Exposure to pressurized systems, heavy equipment, and drilling fluids daily
• Elevated noise levels from rig operation — hearing protection required

This is a safety-sensitive position subject to pre-employment and ongoing drug and alcohol testing per company policy.