No Limits Underground Ltd. is hiring an experienced Directional Drill Operator / Locator for utility construction projects in Saskatchewan and Manitoba.
We are actively recruiting experienced HDD personnel from Alberta. This is an out-of-town field position, and applicants must be willing and available to travel for project work in Saskatchewan and Manitoba.
Travel to and from assigned out-of-town projects will be paid in accordance with company policy.
Applicants must have a valid driver’s licence and be capable of working extended out-of-town project schedules.
This position is intended for someone capable of both operating horizontal directional drilling equipment and locating/tracking bores. We are looking for an experienced individual 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 with the drill operator, 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 protected 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
- Must be willing to work on projects throughout Saskatchewan and Manitoba
- 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
- Previous experience working on travelling or rotational construction crews
What We Offer
- Competitive hourly wage based on experience, qualifications and demonstrated ability
- Paid travel to and from assigned out-of-town projects
- Out-of-town project opportunities in Saskatchewan and Manitoba
- Benefits available to eligible employees
- Consistent work with an established underground utility contractor
- Modern, well-maintained 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. Important: This position is being advertised in Alberta; however, the work is primarily located in Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Applicants must be willing and able to travel and work out of town. Travel to and from assigned projects is paid in accordance with company policy.
Please submit a resume outlining your HDD operating and locating experience, equipment experience and licence qualifications.
Pay: $28.00-$35.00 per hour
Benefits
- Dental care
- Disability insurance
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- RRSP match
- Vision care
Experience:
- HDD locating/operating: 2 years (required)