Directional Driller (HDD) - Excavation & Pipeline Construction

Directional Driller (HDD)The Staff Pad has partnered with a full-service excavation and pipeline construction company providing comprehensive solutions for pipeline and infrastructure projects in Mabank, TX and we are looking to hire an experienced and qualified Directional Driller (HDD) to lead horizontal directional drilling operations and support the successful installation of underground conduit and pipe. The Directional Driller will operate horizontal directional drilling equipment, install underground conduit and pipe for fiber optic and natural gas projects, and manage the bore from setup through pullback. In this role, you will work closely with the locator, maintain the designed bore path, depth, and grade, and ensure existing utilities are not damaged. Candidates with fiber optic or natural gas experience are welcome to apply.Key Responsibilities:Set up, operate, and maintain Ditch Witch, Vermeer, American Augers, or equivalent directional drilling rigs within the specified size or class rangeReview bore plans, prints, and utility locates and walk the bore path before drilling beginsDrill pilot bores to the designed line, depth, and grade while maintaining continuous communication with the locatorSelect and change downhole tooling, including bits, housings, reamers, swivels, and pullback heads based on soil conditionsMix, monitor, and manage drilling fluids, including bentonite and additives, based on ground conditionsMonitor and prevent inadvertent returns and frac-outs and execute containment and cleanup procedures when neededReam and pull back conduit, duct bank, or polyethylene pipe to the specified sizeVerify potholing at all crossings and maintain required clearance from existing utilitiesComplete bore logs, as-built records, and daily production reportsPerform daily equipment inspections, greasing, fluid checks, and routine field maintenance and report needed repairsDirect and support the ground crew, including the locator, laborers, and vacuum excavation operatorFollow all site safety requirements, including electrical strike procedures, grounding mats, traffic control, and gas detection where applicableWhat We Are Looking For:Required Qualifications:2+ years of horizontal directional drilling experience operating the rigProven experience boring for fiber optic conduit, natural gas main and service, or bothAbility to maintain line, depth, and grade on specified bore lengths and diametersWorking knowledge of drilling fluid mixing and regional soil conditionsValid driver's license with no more than 2 minor violations on the motor vehicle recordAbility to pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check, including a 10-panel non-DOT or 5-panel DOT drug screen and 10-year background checkPreferred Qualifications:Class A CDL with ability to haul the rig and support equipment, required or preferred based on project needsExperience with specific rig makes and modelsOperator Qualification (OQ) for gas work, with covered tasks varying by gas companyExperience with rock bores, wet bores, or long crossings under roadways, railroads, or waterOSHA 10 and Competent Person training preferred; additional training providedManufacturer or equipment-specific trainingExperience training and developing locators and ground crewBilingual English and SpanishPhysical Demands and Work Environment:Work outdoors year-round in all weather conditionsLift, carry, push, or pull up to 50–75 pounds, including drill rod and toolingSit and operate controls for extended periods and stand, bend, and kneel as neededWork in and around active roadways, heavy equipment, and existing underground utilitiesWear required personal protective equipment, including flame-resistant clothing where requiredWhat You Can Expect:Competitive compensationOvertime paid at time and a halfLife, dental, and vision insurance available the first of the month following 60 days of employmentAfter 1 year: 3 paid holidays, 1 week of vacation, and bereavement payAfter 4 years: 2 weeks of vacationIf you are an experienced Directional Driller ready to put your HDD expertise to work on challenging fiber optic and natural gas projects, we want to hear from you. Join a team where skilled operators are trusted to take ownership, work safely, and help deliver quality results from the first bore to final pullback. Apply today!