HDD Locator

Career Opportunities: HDD Traveling Locator I (13832)

Requisition
13832
-Posted
- Operations Production

- Operations

- TM021-Maple Grove,MN

- Field

- Individual Contributor

- 100%

At Tel Com Construction, LLC, the HDD Locator is responsible for guiding the drill head during horizontal directional drilling operations. This role ensures accurate steering, depth control, and bore path adherence using advanced locating systems. The Locator works closely with the Foreman and Drill Operator to execute complex bores involving mud motors, grid bores, gyro systems, and large-diameter tooling. This position is critical for maintaining bore accuracy, preventing strikes, and ensuring safe, efficient drilling across the Midwest Region.

• Weekly Paychecks
• Paid Time Off, Parental Leave, and Holidays
• 401(k) w/ Company Match
• Stock Purchase Plan
• Education Reimbursement
• Legal Insurance
• Discounts on gym memberships, pet insurance, and much more!

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform real-time locating using walkover systems, receivers, and advanced tracking tools
• Guide drill head by providing accurate depth, pitch, and steering instructions to the operator
• Interpret bore plans and ensure the drill follows the designed path
• Coordinate with Foreman on tooling changes, steering adjustments, and ground conditions
• Monitor downhole conditions including soil type, steering response, and fluid returns
• Support advanced tooling such as mud motors, grid bores, and gyro systems
• Perform utility avoidance by identifying hazards and adjusting bore path as needed
• Document bore path including depths, pitches, and alignment for as-built records
• Assist with site setup including potholing, marking utilities, and staging equipment
• Maintain safety compliance including PPE, hazard awareness, and communication protocols
• Read utility maps to find underground utilities correctly
• Document all locates
• Respond promptly and courteously to excavation notices
• Communicate well with excavators, utility representatives, and company staff
• Dig lightly with a shovel when necessary
• Work overtime, travel, and perform on-call/after hours responsibilities as needed
• Perform work in all weather conditions

Required Skills &

Qualifications:

• Strong experience with HDD locating systems (Digi Trak, Subsite, or equivalent)
• Ability to read bore plans, utility maps, and job specifications
• Strong communication skills with drill operators and foremen
• Ability to work safely around heavy machinery and active drill sites
• Basic mechanical aptitude for understanding downhole tooling behavior
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
• Ability to lift 50-75 lbs as needed
• Valid driver’s license; CDL preferred but not required

Preferred Experience (Large-Drill Focus):

• Experience locating large-diameter bores (12-24+ inches)
• Experience supporting mud motor and rock drilling operations
• Experience with grid bores and gyro steering systems
• Experience with long shots (800-3,000 ft)
• Experience documenting as-built bore paths for municipalities
• Prior HDD, utility, or construction experience
• OSHA, First Aid, CPR certifications (company can provide)
• To be 18 years of age or older
• Authorization to work in the United States for this company
• High School Diploma, GED equivalent, or relevant work experience
• Valid State driver's license (cannot be Provisional), including an acceptable driving record

Physical abilities & exposures

• Routinely
  : work alone in remote locations with arms above shoulder level, operate vehicle, squeeze, fine hand motion, bend, stoop, stand, walk, lift up to 55 pounds, use keyboard and mouse
• Occasionally
  : use portable ladder, work in confined spaces and climb stairs
• Walking long distances while carrying locating equipment
• Exposure to mud, water, noise,…