Directional Drill Operator​/Locator

⚙️ Bore with Precision. Build with Purpose. Join Capital Railroad Contracting as a Directional Drill Operator / Locator!

Position Title: Directional Drill Operator / Locator
Company Name: Capital Railroad Contracting, Inc.
Pay Range: $25.00 – $36.00 per hour (based on experience)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Schedule: Monday–Friday
Type of Construction/Work they perform: Commercial & Industrial Construction (Railroad Infrastructure)

Capital Railroad Contracting, Inc. is seeking a skilled and safety-driven Directional Drill Operator / Locator to join our Field Operations team. This role is responsible for operating horizontal directional drilling (HDD) equipment to safely and accurately install underground utilities, conduits, and infrastructure on railroad and industrial projects. The ideal candidate brings strong technical ability, situational awareness, and a team-first mindset to demanding job sites where safety and precision matter most.

Founded in 1987, Capital Railroad Contracting, Inc. is a trusted leader in railroad construction services nationwide. We specialize in railroad bridges, track construction, continuous welded rail installation, switch and turnout installation, crossings, welding, and tie replacement. Safety is at the core of everything we do — our proven safety record, NRC and AREMA membership, and multiple NRC safety awards reflect our unwavering commitment to protecting our people, clients, and communities.

We own and maintain all equipment related to surfacing and track installation, and we treat every project as a vital part of our company’s “track record.” Our teams take pride in delivering work that is done right, safe, and efficient — the first time.

Safely operate horizontal directional drilling (HDD) equipment to install underground utilities, pipelines, and conduits

Execute bore paths according to project plans, bore logs, and specifications

Work closely with the drill locator to maintain accurate depth, alignment, and clearance from existing utilities

Continuously monitor drilling operations and make real-time adjustments as conditions change

Identify and resolve drilling challenges such as obstructions, soil changes, or deviations

Perform daily equipment inspections, routine maintenance, and minor repairs

Maintain accurate documentation of bore data, depths, locations, and deviations

Uphold all company, railroad, and regulatory safety standards on active job sites

Assist with site setup, cleanup, and general field operations as needed

Communicate clearly with crew members, supervisors, inspectors, and railroad representatives

Minimum 3+ years of experience operating HDD equipment or in a similar directional drilling role

High School Diploma or GED required

Class A CDL required

Strong understanding of HDD processes, underground utilities, and jobsite safety

Experience operating excavators and skid steers preferred

Ability to read and interpret plans, bore profiles, and utility markings

Strong problem-solving skills and mechanical aptitude

Physically capable of working outdoors in varying weather and jobsite conditions

Reliable, dependable, and able to work productively without constant supervision

Safety-first mindset with strong situational awareness

Calm and composed when plans change or conditions are challenging

Team-oriented and willing to step in where needed

Detail-oriented with pride in quality workmanship

Respectful and professional with customers, inspectors, and the public

Honest, accountable, and committed to doing the job right

Takes care of equipment and maintains a clean, organized jobsite

$25.00 – $36.00 per hour, based on experience

Weekly pay cycle

Prevailing wage projects

Safety bonuses

Quarterly bonus opportunities

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Life and disability insurance options

Retirement savings program

Paid time off (holidays, vacation, sick time)

Employee profit sharing or stock participation

Company events, employee rewards, and prizes

Full-Time

Monday – Friday

Overtime and extended schedules may be required based on project needs

Field-based role with regular travel to project sites

Work performed on active railroad, commercial, and industrial job sites

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

A background check will be completed as part of the onboarding process, in compliance with applicable laws.