Full-Time | Utilities & Construction | Field Operations | Leadership Role
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced and dependable Directional Drilling Foreman to lead HDD crews, manage daily field operations, and ensure projects are completed safely, efficiently, and to specification. This role requires strong leadership, technical expertise, communication skills, and the ability to problem-solve in the field.
Key Responsibilities
Crew Leadership & Operations
Lead, supervise, and coordinate HDD crews (operator, locator, laborers)
Schedule daily work, assign tasks, and manage crew productivity
Train and mentor crew members in proper HDD procedures and safety
Ensure all drilling, locating, and pullback operations follow plan and best practices
Project Execution
Read and interpret prints, bore plans, utility locates, and job specifications
Plan bore path strategy with operator and locator
Conduct jobsite setup including safety perimeter, equipment staging, and traffic control
Oversee pilot bore, reaming, pullback, mud mixing, and vacuum excavation activities
Inspect and verify installation depth, alignment, and utility crossings
Safety & Compliance
Enforce company safety policies, OSHA standards, and PPE requirements
Perform daily jobsite hazard assessments and safety meetings
Ensure accurate utility potholing and conflict resolution
Document and report any incidents, near-misses, or property damage
Quality & Communication
Communicate clearly with project managers, inspectors, GCs, and utility owners
Maintain accurate daily logs, production reports, bore logs, and equipment records
Verify materials and equipment needed for each job and ensure availability
Ensure jobsite is left clean, restored, and compliant with project specs
Equipment & Maintenance
Oversee proper operation of drill rigs, mud systems, vacs, and support tools
Conduct or coordinate routine equipment inspections
Identify mechanical issues early and report for repair
Ensure tools and equipment are maintained, organized, and secure
Required Qualifications
3+ years experience in HDD operations, including drilling and locating
Prior supervisory or lead role strongly preferred
Extensive knowledge of HDD equipment (Vermeer, Ditch Witch, etc.)
Ability to read and understand plans, prints, and utility locates
Valid driver’s license required (CDL Class A preferred)
Strong communication, leadership, and conflict-resolution skills
Ability to work outdoors in all weather and lift 50–75 lbs
Ability to travel to various jobsite locations as required
Preferred Skills
Experience executing long bores, complex crossings, or difficult soils
Understanding of drilling fluids, mud management, and tooling selection
Strong mechanical aptitude for troubleshooting drilling equipment
Familiarity with OSHA 10/30, excavation safety, and underground utility standards
Experience working with inspectors, general contractors, or utility providers
Work Environment & Physical Demands
Outdoor work in all weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, mud, uneven terrain)
Long days, early mornings, and occasional weekends
Frequent standing, bending, lifting, and operating around heavy equipment
Regional travel may be required
What We Offer
Competitive pay
Company truck or allowance
Career advancement toward Drilling Superintendent or Drilling Services Manager
Health, dental, vision options
401K
Life Insurance
Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance
Strong company culture and steady year-round work
Schedule
Monday–Friday
Occasional weekends and out-of-town work depending on project schedule
Experience operating drilling rigs preferred.
Pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.
We are looking for someone who is excited and proud of the work they do.
Ability to self-start in the morning and operate with minimal oversight.
Good mechanical skills
High School Diploma or GED