Drilling​/Machine Operator

Gone fishing after work? Live and work in Lakes Country.

Enjoy meaningful work, wide-open spaces, and a team that serves its community. Lake Region Electric Cooperative is a member-owned electric utility delivering affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy to more than 30,000 member-consumers across Otter Tail, Wilkin, Grant, Douglas, Clay, and Becker counties.

Due to an internal promotion, we are seeking a full-time Drilling / Boring Machine Operator based in Pelican Rapids, MN to support underground utility construction.

This position plays a critical role in safely and efficiently installing underground utility bores. The ideal candidate brings a safety-first mindset, strong technical skill, and pride in quality workmanship. You’ll work outdoors in all weather conditions, collaborating closely with line crews to ensure work plans are executed accurately and responsibly.

• Operate and maintain horizontal directional drilling (HDD) equipment and related machinery for underground utility installation
• Interpret staking sheets and underground construction plans
• Assess soil conditions, mix drill fluids, and operate grout pumps
• Use and maintain electronic guidance systems associated with directional drilling
• Perform routine equipment maintenance to ensure safe, effective operation
• Assist with underground plow, backhoe, and digger derrick operations to create trenches and bore paths
• Support line crews with construction and maintenance activities, including:
  • Digging holes and trenches
  • Setting, tamping, and framing poles
  • Cutting right-of-way

• Minimum 2 years of experience operating a horizontal directional drilling (HDD) machine
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Class A CDL with tanker endorsement
• Experience operating underground digging equipment and related construction machinery
• Intermediate technology and computer skills
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Attention to detail with the ability to prioritize tasks and problem-solve in the field
• A reliable, team-oriented professional committed to safety, standards, and serving the community

• Must be able to successfully complete a pre-employment screening which may include a physical examination, drug screening, background check, reference check, and motor vehicle record check as applicable to the position.

Schedule:

Capacity to work standard work hours, Monday – Friday 7:30AM – 4:00PM, and overtime as needed. Assistance will be expected during major outages.

Physical Demands &

Working Conditions:

Work outdoors with great physical exertion, sometimes in poor weather conditions. Frequently lifts materials and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds. Occasionally lifts items that weigh up to 100 pounds. Shovels dirt, works around noisy equipment, and visually inspects work for safe connections. Occasionally works around energized lines.

LREC offers a generous compensation package including fully paid single coverage health insurance premium, fully vested company 401k match and substantial paid time off, including front loading accrual. This union position’s starting wage based on previous experience, is $31.00 - $38.00 with a training progression period and wage adjustments to conclude over 2-3years.

Questions regarding the position can be directed to HRp. This position will remain open until filled; however, applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible as the review process will begin right away. See more details and apply on-line at https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./

LREC is an equal opportunity employer (EOE).