Drilling Operator (CDL Required)

Job Description

Job Description

Drilling Operator (CDL Required)

Lead High-Impact Fiber Infrastructure Projects Across Georgia

Company: Cherokee Fiber & Associates Inc.

???? Canton, GA (Onsite) ???? Competitive Pay: $70,000–$83,000+ Depending on Experience ???? Full-Time | Overtime Opportunities Available

Build the Infrastructure That Keeps Communities Connected

Cherokee Fiber & Associates Inc. is seeking an experienced and highly skilled Directional Drilling Operator to join our growing field operations team. This is an opportunity for a motivated professional to take ownership of critical underground utility projects supporting residential, commercial, industrial, and government telecommunications infrastructure.

If you take pride in precision work, operating advanced drilling equipment, solving field challenges, and leading safe, efficient job sites — we want to hear from you.

This role is ideal for operators with strong utility construction experience who are looking for long-term career stability, consistent work, and the opportunity to work on large-scale fiber expansion projects.

What You’ll Do

• Operate horizontal directional drilling (HDD) equipment to install underground fiber optic conduit and utility infrastructure.
• Safely execute bore plans while maintaining accuracy, production efficiency, and utility protection standards.
• Read and interpret construction prints, utility locates, bore profiles, and project specifications.
• Evaluate ground conditions and make real-time adjustments to ensure successful bore completion.
• Coordinate closely with locator crews, laborers, supervisors, and installation teams to maintain project timelines.
• Conduct pre-trip inspections, equipment checks, and preventative maintenance on drilling rigs, tooling, mud systems, and support equipment.
• Identify and troubleshoot operational or mechanical issues in the field.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations, company safety procedures, and client standards.
• Maintain clean, organized, and professional job sites.
• Complete daily production reports, safety documentation, and equipment logs accurately.

What We’re Looking For

Required Qualifications

• Proven experience operating directional drilling/HDD equipment in utility or telecommunications construction.
• Experience operating drilling rigs ranging from 20,000–100,000 lb machines.
• Active CDL with a clean driving record.
• Strong understanding of underground utility installation practices and utility locating procedures.
• Ability to read blueprints, site plans, and bore path designs.
• Strong knowledge of OSHA standards and safe excavation/drilling practices.
• Mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot drilling equipment and fluid systems.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and physically demanding job site conditions.
• Willingness to work overtime, weekends, and travel locally as project demands require.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with fiber optic infrastructure projects.
• Previous experience on municipal, DOT, prevailing wage, or government/federal projects.
• Experience with mud mixing systems, vac systems, and locating equipment.
• Crew leadership or lead operator experience preferred.

Why Join Cherokee Fiber & Associates?

• Competitive compensation with overtime opportunities.
• Long-term, stable project pipeline.
• Opportunity to work on large-scale telecommunications and infrastructure expansion projects.
• High-impact work supporting critical connectivity infrastructure.
• Professional team environment focused on safety, quality, and operational excellence.
• Career growth opportunities within a rapidly expanding industry.