Bore Rig Operator
Description:
Salary: $37.35 - $46.69 Hourly
Location : Buffalo, MN
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202500142
Department: Electric
Opening Date: 01/22/2026
Closing Date: 2/6/2026 11:59 PM Central
Description
Precision below the surface, progress above it-join our team at the City of Buffalo, as a Bore Rig Operator and help build the backbone of our city's infrastructure.
Operate bore rig machinery and related equipment; install underground lines per project drawings and specifications; locate utilities using hand digging, vac-tron, mini excavator, or other equipment; and perform restoration and groundwork.
Examples of Duties
Essential Functions
Operation of Bore Rig Machinery and Related Equipment:
Install underground lines as per project drawings and specifications.
Locate utilities using hand digging, vac-tron, mini excavator, or other methods.
Proficiently operate bore rig and head locates; including elevation and steering.
Restore work sites post-project.
Perform pneumatic pushes.
Work requires a high-level of precision and coordination of tasks with other team members and involves significant level of risk if guidelines are not followed closely. Need to pay close attention to every move to avoid wide scale accidents.Additional Essential Duties:
Ensure regular and timely attendance.
Follow all safety procedures and protocols.
Participate in safety and industry-specific training programs.
Assist with flagging and road closures.
Remove snow for ERMU facilities.
Assist with tree trimming and brush removal.
Support line crews and other departments as needed, and during emergency unplanned events.
Typical Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
High School diploma or equivalent.
One year on the job training and two years of experience doing fully qualified level of similar work.
Must be able to obtain a Minnesota Class A license within one year.
Requires gas pipeline certification in order to do the work.Preferred Qualifications
Five years of experience in operating bore rigs and groundwork.
Familiarity with heavy construction equipment.
Previous experience in utility locating.
Supplemental Information
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Ability to efficiently operate machinery and equipment.
Ability to make decisions within guidelines and position parameters.
Ability to interact effectively with supervisors, employees, and customers.
Strong communication skills.
Ability to engage in physical labor and frequently lift up to 50 lbs.
Ability to read construction documents, drawings, maps, and specifications.
We offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, short-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick and safe leave.
Part-time employees may receive benefits on a pro-rated basis.
01
Do you have a High School diploma or GED?
Yes
No
02
Do you have one (1) year of on the job training and two (2) years of experience doing fully qualified level of similar work?
Yes
No
03
Do you have a MN Class A CDL or are you willing to obtain one within a year?
Yes
No
04
Do you have a gas pipeline certification for horizontal directional drilling?
Yes
No
05
How many years of experience in operating bore rigs and groundwork do you have?
Less than 1 year
1 to 3 years
3 to 5 years
More than 5 years
06
How familiar are you with operating heavy construction equipment? Please provide details on the types of equipment you have worked with (e.g., bore rigs, excavators, bulldozers, trenchers, etc.), the scope of your responsibilities, and how many years of experience you have with each.
07
Do you have experience in utility locating?
Yes
No
08
Do you wish to apply for Veterans' Preference points:If you answered "yes," you must submit a PHOTOCOPY of your "Member Copy 4" of your DD214 or other documentation verifying service to substantiate the services information requested on the form.
Veteran
Disable Veteran
Spouse of Disabled Veteran
Spouse of Deceased Veteran
Spouse of Deceased Veteran if Disabled at Time of Death
No
Required Question