HDD (Horizontal Directional Drill) Locator

Las Vegas, NV Full-Time

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The HDD Locator Operator is responsible for accurately locating and guiding horizontal directional drilling operations for the installation of underground telecommunications infrastructure, including fiber optic conduit, electrical conduit, and utility pathways. This position works closely with the Drill Operator to safely complete bore paths while avoiding existing underground utilities and ensuring installations meet project specifications.

• Operate underground locating equipment (Ditch Witch, Vermeer, Subsite, Digi Trak, or equivalent locating systems) during HDD operations.
• Guide the HDD Drill Operator by monitoring drill head location, depth, pitch, roll, and steering.
• Read and interpret construction drawings, utility maps, bore profiles, and project plans.
• Verify bore path accuracy to meet project design and customer specifications.
• Identify, expose, and verify existing underground utilities using potholing, hydrovac, and locating equipment.
• Maintain proper separation from existing underground utilities throughout drilling operations.
• Communicate continuously with the Drill Operator to safely navigate bore paths.
• Assist in drill setup, breakdown, and daily equipment inspections.
• Support conduit installation, pullback operations, and product placement.
• Perform pre-job safety assessments and participate in daily tailgate meetings.
• Complete production reports, bore logs, utility verification documentation, and as-built information.
• Monitor drilling fluid returns and identify conditions that may affect drilling performance.
• Assist with restoration of work areas upon project completion.
• Maintain all locating equipment in proper working condition.
• Follow all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and customer requirements.
• Travel to various job sites as required.

• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Frequently lift and carry up to 75 pounds.
• Walk, stand, bend, kneel, crouch, and climb for extended periods.
• Ability to work around heavy equipment and active construction sites.
• Manual dexterity to operate locating equipment and hand tools.
• Visual acuity sufficient to read locating equipment displays and construction plans.
• Exposure to dust, mud, noise, vibration, and varying weather conditions.
• Frequent travel to project sites.
• Overtime, weekends, and occasional overnight travel may be required based on project schedules.

• Follow OSHA, DOT, state, local, and company safety regulations.
• Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.
• Participate in daily Job Safety Analyses (JSAs) and safety meetings.
• Verify utility locates before drilling begins.
• Maintain safe work zones and traffic control practices as required.

Success in this role is measured by:

• Safe completion of HDD operations with zero utility strikes.
• Accurate bore placement within project tolerances.
• Compliance with project schedules and production goals.
• Proper documentation and reporting.
• Equipment care and maintenance.
• Positive teamwork and communication with field crews and customers.

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Minimum 2 years of HDD locating experience preferred.
• Experience locating telecommunications, electrical, gas, water, and other underground utilities.
• Proficient with Digi Trak, Subsite, DCI, Vermeer, or similar locating systems.
• Ability to read construction plans and utility maps.
• Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.
• Ability to obtain required customer site certifications.
• CDL preferred but not required.

• Thorough understanding of horizontal directional drilling operations.
• Knowledge of telecommunications construction practices.
• Strong understanding of underground utility locating techniques.
• Ability to make real-time decisions while drilling.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Strong attention to detail and situational awareness.
• Mechanical aptitude and basic equipment troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Commitment to safety and quality workmanship.

• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Construction
• First Aid/CPR Certification
• Utility Damage Prevention Training
• Competent Person Training
• CDL Class A (preferred)
• State-specific utility locate certifications (where applicable)