No Limits Underground Ltd. is hiring an experienced Directional Drill Operator / Locator to join our underground utility construction team.
This is a field-based HDD position for someone capable of both operating horizontal directional drilling equipment and locating/tracking bores.
Applicants must have a valid driver’s licence and be available and willing to work out of town as required by project schedules.
We are looking for someone who understands the full HDD process from bore planning and locating through drilling, reaming and product pullback.
Responsibilities
- Operate horizontal directional drilling equipment for underground utility installations
- Locate and track the drill head throughout pilot bores
- Maintain proper bore depth, pitch, alignment and utility clearances
- Plan and execute bore paths based on project requirements and existing utilities
- Communicate effectively between the drill, locator and ground crew
- Complete pilot bores, reaming and product pullbacks
- Select appropriate tooling and reamers for varying ground conditions
- Monitor drilling pressures, rotation, pullback forces and fluid returns
- Adjust drilling techniques based on changing soil and ground conditions
- Assist with potholing/daylighting and verification of existing utilities
- Assist with drilling fluid mixing and mud management
- Record bore depths and installation information as required
- Complete daily inspections and routine maintenance on drilling and locating equipment
- Identify equipment or tooling issues before they result in downtime or damage
- Assist with loading, unloading and mobilization of drilling equipment
- Maintain equipment in a clean and serviceable condition
- Follow company safe work procedures and project-specific safety requirements
Requirements
- Previous HDD operating and/or locating experience required
- Valid driver’s licence required
- Must be available and willing to work out of town
- Strong understanding of HDD bore planning,
steering, pitch and depth
- Experience working around existing underground utilities
- Understanding of reaming, pullback operations and drilling fluids
- Ability to read utility drawings and understand crossing requirements
- Strong communication skills with operators and ground personnel
- Ability to recognize changing ground conditions and adjust drilling methods accordingly
- Physically capable of performing field construction work
- Able to work outdoors in varying weather and site conditions
- Reliable and able to work effectively as part of a production crew
- Strong commitment to safe work practices and equipment care
Assets
- Experience with DigiTrak locating systems
- Experience operating Vermeer and/or Ditch Witch HDD equipment
- Experience drilling in gravel, cobble or challenging ground conditions
- Telecom, electrical or underground utility construction experience
- Mechanical aptitude and field troubleshooting ability
- Class 3 driver's licence
- Experience operating larger HDD rigs
What We Offer
- Competitive hourly wage based on experience, qualifications and demonstrated ability
- Advantages available to eligible employees
- Consistent work with an established underground utility contractor
- Modern equipment
- Variety of HDD and underground utility projects
- Opportunities for advancement
We are looking for someone who understands that successful HDD work requires more than simply running a drill or locator. Safe production, communication, bore accuracy, utility awareness and equipment care are all expected. Please submit a resume outlining your HDD operating and locating experience, equipment experience and licence qualifications.
Pay: $28.00-$35.00 per hour
Expected hours: No less than 50.0 per week
Benefits
- Dental care
- Disability insurance
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- RRSP match
- Vision care
Experience:
- HDD locating/operating: 2 years (required)