Driller/Locator

About the role

If being a part of a world-class organization that operates in some of the most advanced technological environments around the world sounds like a dream job, Network Connex might be the right fit for you! You'll be part of a team working together to solve customer problems every day, with compensation and benefits that are an investment in your career, financial future, and overall well-being.

In addition to competitive base pay, Network Connex offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your physical, mental, and financial health you can begin participating in our programs on the first of the month following your start date.

Join our Vanguard 401(k) plan, with immediate vesting and a generous company match to help you build long-term financial security. Our team also enjoys 10 paid company holidays, a generous PTO accrual schedule, and access to discounts on useful products and services.

The HDD Driller / Locator is responsible for accurately locating and guiding the drill head during horizontal directional drilling (HDD) operations for underground fiber and utility installations. This role is critical to safely navigating bore paths, avoiding existing utilities, and ensuring projects are completed efficiently, accurately, and in compliance with safety and quality standards. The position requires close coordination with the drill operator, strong situational awareness, and a high level of accountability.

Key Responsibilities

• Locate and track the drill head in real time using electronic locating equipment to ensure accurate bore alignment, depth control, and safe utility clearance.
• Communicate continuously with the drill operator to provide precise guidance on pitch, depth, direction, and corrections during drilling operations.
• Review construction plans, utility locates, bore profiles, and job specifications prior to drilling.
• Participate in pre-drill and job hazard analysis (JHA) meetings to identify risks, utility conflicts, and mitigation strategies.
• Identify, verify, and protect existing underground utilities in compliance with 811/One Call and project requirements.
• Assist with drill setup, steering corrections, pullback operations, and bore documentation as needed.
• Maintain, calibrate, and properly operate locating equipment and related tools.
• Exercise strong self-management and situational awareness while working independently alongside the drill operator.
• Enforce safety policies and best practices to protect crew members, the public, and surrounding infrastructure.
• Coordinate with foremen, project managers, inspectors, and utility representatives as required.
• Travel to project locations and support field operations as assigned.
• Work outdoors in all weather conditions, including extreme cold, heat, rain, snow, and high winds.
• Perform additional HDD and underground construction duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Minimum of 1 years of experience as an HDD Locator, Driller/Locator, or similar role in underground utilities, fiber OSP, or telecommunications construction.
• Strong knowledge of HDD locating systems, bore steering techniques, and underground utility avoidance.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, bore profiles, utility locates, and as-built documentation.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to give clear, concise instructions during active drilling.
• Proven ability to work independently while maintaining coordination with the drill operator and crew.
• Strong commitment to safety and the ability to recognize and stop unsafe conditions.
• Physical ability to perform field work, including walking bore paths, lifting equipment, and working in challenging terrain and weather.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record; CDL preferred.
• Willingness to travel extensively, including overnight and out-of-area assignments as required.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• This position involves continuous outdoor field work and frequent travel to project sites.
• Work is performed in a wide range of environmental conditions, including extreme temperatures, uneven terrain, and high-traffic areas.
• The role requires sustained focus, physical stamina, and strict adherence to safety protocols while working around active underground utilities and heavy equipment.