Horizontal Directional Drill Operator
Essel· Cerritos Office
About this role
Job Title:
Horizontal Directional Drill Operator
Job Summary:
Essel is seeking a skilled Horizontal Directional Drill Operator to join our team. The successful candidate will operate horizontal directional drilling equipment to install underground utilities in a safe, efficient, and precise manner. This role requires excellent technical skills, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to safety and teamwork.
Key Responsibilities:
- Operate horizontal directional drilling machines to install pipelines, cables, conduits, and other underground utilities.
- Conduct pre-operation inspections and routine maintenance on drilling equipment to ensure functionality and safety.
- Read and interpret project plans, blueprints, and specifications to determine drilling locations and alignments.
- Monitor drilling operations, adjusting equipment and processes to meet project specifications and overcome obstacles.
- Communicate effectively with crew members and supervisors to coordinate work and promote a safe working environment.
- Follow all safety protocols and regulatory requirements to minimize risk and maintain compliance.
- Assist in training and mentoring junior operators or crew members as necessary.
Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Minimum 3 years of experience operating horizontal directional drilling equipment.
- Strong understanding of drilling processes, equipment, and safety standards.
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and site plans.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
- Capability to work in outdoor environments and physically demanding conditions.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills.
- Valid driver's license and clean driving record.
- Certification or training specific to horizontal directional drilling preferred.
- Willingness to work flexible hours, including overtime and weekends as required.
- Experience working on utility installation projects is highly desirable.
- Ability to comply with all company safety policies and regulatory standards.
Join Essel and contribute to important infrastructure projects while advancing your career in the heavy equipment industry.
- Consistent work opportunities across multiple projects
- Weekly pay
- Opportunity for overtime
- Room for advancement into skilled trades
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the salary disclosed for the Horizontal Directional Drill Operator position at Essel?
The salary for this Horizontal Directional Drill Operator role at Essel is not publicly listed. Click "Apply Now" to learn more about the compensation package on their official careers page.
Where is the Horizontal Directional Drill Operator position at Essel located?
This Horizontal Directional Drill Operator role at Essel is based in Stockton, California, United States. The position is listed as on-site or hybrid. Check the full job description or apply directly to confirm the work arrangement.
Is the Horizontal Directional Drill Operator role at Essel full-time or part-time?
This is listed as a Full time position. It is posted as a Horizontal Directional Drill Operator role in the Cerritos Office department at Essel.
Which team or department does the Horizontal Directional Drill Operator at Essel belong to?
This Horizontal Directional Drill Operator position is part of the Cerritos Office department at Essel. See the full job description for more information about the team structure and responsibilities.
How do I apply for the Horizontal Directional Drill Operator position at Essel?
Click the "Apply Now" button on this page. You will be redirected to Essel's official application portal hosted on workable where you can submit your application directly.
When was the Horizontal Directional Drill Operator job at Essel posted?
This Horizontal Directional Drill Operator position at Essel was posted on Apr 15, 2026. Apply as soon as possible — early applications are often reviewed first.
Horizontal Directional Drill Operator
Essel
You'll be redirected to Essel's official application page on workable.