Drilling Foreman

Job Description

Job Description

Directional Drill Operator

Location: Indiana (Travel within region required)

Company: Indiana Underground Construction (IUC)

Employment Type: Full-Time

Position Overview

We are seeking a high-level Directional Drill Operator to run HDD operations safely, efficiently, and profitably. This role is not entry-level. You will be responsible for planning, drilling, steering, and completing horizontal directional bores for fiber optic and underground utility installations. Production, accuracy, and damage prevention matter—this is a results-driven position.

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Primary Responsibilities

•    Operate horizontal directional drilling equipment (Vermeer, Ditch Witch, or equivalent)

•    Perform bore path planning , setup, and execution

•    Accurately steer drill head to grade and alignment using locating equipment

•    Drill under roads, sidewalks, driveways, and existing utilities

•    Install conduit and innerduct (3⁄4”–4”, single or multiple)

•    Coordinate with locator, crew, and foreman to maintain productivity

•    Read and interpret prints, profiles, and utility locates

•    Perform daily equipment inspections and routine maintenance

•    Maintain safe work zones and comply with all OSHA and 811 regulations

•    Complete daily production reports and redlines when required

•    Protect company equipment and jobsite reputation—no shortcuts

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Required Qualifications

•    3+ years hands-on HDD operating experience (utility/fiber preferred)

•    Proven ability to hit footage goals without damaging utilities

•    Experience drilling in mixed soil conditions (clay, sand, rock)

•    Strong understanding of underground utility layouts and risk management

•    Ability to read prints and understand bore profiles

•    Valid driver’s license (CDL a plus)

•    Ability to work long days, outdoor conditions, and variable job sites

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Preferred (Strong Advantage)

•    Fiber optic conduit installation experience

•    Road bore and crossing experience

•    Experience with Vermeer D20/D24/D36 class drills

•    Experience working on subdivision and municipal projects

•    Leadership capability—ability to run a drill crew efficiently

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Performance Expectations

•    Consistent production in the 300–500+ ft/day range , job dependent

•    Zero-damage mindset

•    Equipment kept clean, maintained, and respected

•    Professional interaction with GCs, inspectors, and property owners

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Compensation & Benefits

•    Competitive hourly pay based on experience ($24-$30 per hour)

•    Overtime available

•    Paid travel time (job dependent)

•    Advancement opportunities for top performers

•    Steady workload—this is not seasonal or stop-start work

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Who This Job Is NOT For

•    Inexperienced operators

•    Anyone who rushes, cuts corners, or blames equipment

•    Operators who cannot hit production goals safely

•    Anyone uncomfortable with accountability

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How to Apply

Serious operators only. Experience will be verified.

Apply with your work history and equipment experience.