Horizontal Directional Drill Operator

Job Overview

Primoris Gas Operations, which includes companies such as Q3 Contracting, ARB, Primoris Distribution Services, Snelson, and Pipe jacking Trenchless, has over 60 years of experience in the natural gas distribution industry. We maintain long‑standing customer relationships and focus on a safe environment, quality workmanship, and exceptional value. We have immediate openings for a Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) Operator and/or Locator in Des Moines, IA.

A Class A CDL with tanker endorsement and knowledge of directional drilling is required.

The HDD Operator’s main responsibility is to operate heavy equipment safely and effectively for the installation of natural gas pipelines. The Operator will perform other duties as required to support the crew.

• Horizontal Directional Drill Experience is preferred.
• CDL Class‑A with tanker endorsement is the top priority.
• Willingness to work overtime as dictated by workload volumes.
• Backhoe and/or mini‑ex experience is a plus.
• Working experience in construction or the utility distribution industry (gas or electric) is preferred.
• At least 3 years of experience operating excavation equipment in the utility industry.
• Technical thinking skills and the ability to read standards and schematics.

• Must be able to lift and/or move 50 pounds.
• Standing, walking—including on uneven surfaces—and turning, stooping, kneeling, crouching, speaking, and hearing are required continuously.

• Exposure to outside weather conditions.
• Exposure to wet or humid conditions, cold, heat, and humidity.
• Noise level can often be loud.
• Frequent exposure to slow‑ or fast‑moving traffic in the work environment.

$38.47 per hour (Union). Earn an extra $1.00 per hour with a valid CDL.

Q3 Contracting is a drug‑free environment and all candidates are subject to drug testing.

We are an equal‑opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.