Directional Drill Operator​/Locator

National Fiber Construction Co. (NFC) is a horizontal directional drilling contractor with over 35 years of experience. We self-perform underground and aerial telecom construction, and directional boring for major carriers and municipal clients across Michigan. Our crews run a Ditch Witch HDD fleet on a 4×10 schedule.

We're hiring experienced HDD Operators and Locators to join our field crews.

What You'll Do

• Operate Ditch Witch directional drills (JT20-class and similar) to install fiber conduit in urban, suburban, and rural environments
• Run electronic locating systems (Underground Magnetics, Subsite, or equivalent) to track drill head position, depth, and pitch in real time
• Communicate continuously with the drill operator or locator to hold bore path, grade, and safe clearance from existing utilities
• Read and interpret construction prints, bore plans, utility locates, and shot sheets - and flag discrepancies in the field
• Perform potholing and visual verification of underground crossings before and during the bore
• Mix and manage drilling fluids - understand viscosity, flow rates, and when to adjust the mud program
• Maintain bore logs, as-builts, redlines, and daily production documentation
• Assist with rig setup/teardown, rod handling, tooling changes, and site restoration
• Conduct or participate in pre-job safety briefings and adhere to MIOSHA and company safety standards
• Report underground conflicts, utility damage, or safety hazards immediately

Required:

• 2+ years operating HDD rigs or locating in telecom/utility construction
• Ability to read construction drawings, bore profiles, and utility maps
• Hands-on knowledge of Underground Magnetics, Subsite, or Vermeer tracking systems or Operating Ditch Witch Rigs.
• Strong understanding of 811 processes and underground utility identification
• Valid driver's license (CDL preferred; willingness to obtain CDL with company support required)
• Physically able to lift 50 lbs., walk bore paths, and work outdoors in all weather

Preferred:

• FTTH (Fiber to the Home) build experience
• OQ gas qualifications (Consumers Energy)
• Experience boring in high-risk areas - live gas, electric, water, and sewer
• Experience with hydro-vac, excavator, or other support equipment helpful
• Highway traffic control knowledge or flagger certification
• Knowledge of mud mixing and drilling fluid systems

• Competitive pay based on experience with annual performance reviews and merit increases
• Co-pay Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement with company match
• Paid time off, paid holidays, paid drive time, and paid sick leave
• CDL training support
• Career advancement path - we promote from within
• Maintained Ditch Witch fleet and modern locating systems

• Able to lift 50 lbs., including tools, equipment, and drill components
• Able to stand, walk, kneel, crouch, and bend for extended periods on uneven terrain
• Comfortable working outdoors in all Michigan weather - heat, cold, rain, and snow
• Willing to work in close proximity to vehicular traffic and active utility corridors

National Fiber Construction Co. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.