Directional Drill, Heavy Equipment Operator

Job Title: Directional Drill Operator

Location: Charlotte, NC

Job Overview:

Are you an experienced Directional Drill Operator with a passion for precision and a keen eye for detail? Do you thrive in challenging outdoor environments, where every project offers a new opportunity to showcase your expertise? If so, let's connect! In this role, you’ll use your expertise in Vermeer or Ditch Witch directional drills and utility locating to install state-of-the-art underground telecommunications systems while ensuring safety and efficiency on every project.

You’ll be part of a skilled team that is responsible for installing telecommunications conduit, fiber optic cables, broadband, and other telecom infrastructure that powers next generation communication networks. With your advanced experience in HDD (Horizontal Directional Drilling) and utility locating, you'll play a crucial part in making sure our clients get the best quality installation, every time. This position involves operating and maintaining drilling machinery, managing project safety, and ensuring the accurate placement of cables and conduits.

Key Responsibilities:

Precision Drilling & Installation:

• Operate and Maintain Drilling Equipment: Lead the operation of Vermeer or Ditch Witch directional drills, mini excavators, plows and vac systems, to install telecommunications lines, including conduit, fiber optic, coaxial, and copper cables, through a variety of terrains and soil conditions (e.g., rock, clay, sand, and urban environments).

• Drill Setup and Alignment: Prepare and align drilling rigs for each job, check functionality before commencing work, ensuring the proper setup to meet project specifications and avoiding any potential issues during the drilling process. Attention to detail when reading and interpreting blueprints/project designs for accurate project installations.

• Drill Path Monitoring: Use your experience and technical knowledge to monitor and adjust the drill path, depth, and direction to maintain a consistent and accurate conduit and cable installation.

Utility Locating Expertise:

• Locate Underground Utilities: Accurately locate and mark existing underground utilities (water, gas, electric, telecom) to avoid costly and dangerous mistakes during the drilling process.

• Coordinate with Other Utilities: Work alongside utility locators and other specialists to ensure that your drilling operations won’t interfere with existing infrastructure and work proactively to mitigate any risks.

• Use Advanced Locating Technology: Employ state-of-the-art utility locating equipment to identify utility lines, cables, and pipes. Ensure all utilities are properly identified before drilling to safeguard both personnel and equipment.

Safety & Quality Assurance:

• Adhere to Safety Protocols: Lead by example in maintaining a culture of safety, using all necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) and ensuring compliance with OSHA safety standards.

• Ensure High-Quality Work: Execute all drilling and utility locating tasks with high attention to detail, making sure every installation is done right the first time and aligns with client specifications and regulatory guidelines.

Troubleshooting & Problem Solving:

• Identify & Address Issues: Troubleshoot and resolve any issues encountered during the drilling process, from equipment malfunctions to unexpected obstructions in the drill path.

• Adapt and Innovate: Leverage your experience to think on your feet and solve problems creatively in real-time, whether it’s adjusting the drill angle for smoother installations or rerouting due to unforeseen obstacles.

Collaboration & Communication:

• Work in Tandem with Team Members: Collaborate effectively with project managers, field supervisors, other operators, and utility locating specialists to ensure smooth and efficient execution of each project.

• Report Progress: Maintain clear and concise daily logs, documenting progress, issues encountered, and any maintenance performed on equipment. Ensure all project milestones are communicated to the project manager or supervisor daily.

Machine & Equipment Maintenance:

• Preventative Maintenance: Perform routine maintenance checks on Vermeer or Ditch Witch directional drills, along with associated tools and equipment, to ensure they operate at peak performance.

• Minor Repairs: Complete minor repairs and troubleshoot issues to avoid costly delays or downtime during projects.

Qualifications:

• Experience:

o Minimum of 3 years of experience operating Vermeer or Ditch Witch directional drills, plows, mini excavators and vac systems, preferably in telecommunications or utility installation.

o Proven experience in utility locating, using tools like GPR (Ground Penetrating Radar) and electromagnetic equipment to detect and mark underground utilities.

• Certifications:

o OSHA 10/30 certification (preferred).

o Relevant certifications for directional drilling operations (e.g., Vermeer or Ditch Witch specific certifications).

o Utility Locator certification (preferred but not required).

o Valid clean driver’s license (CDL preferred).

• Skills & Abilities:

o Advanced Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of horizontal directional drilling technology and techniques, with a particular focus on telecommunications infrastructure.

o Utility Locating Expertise: Ability to accurately and safely locate underground utilities using state-of-the-art locating equipment.

o Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail when reading blueprints, understanding site layouts, and marking utilities.

o Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to report clearly on project status and work effectively with a team.

o Physical Stamina: Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and lift heavy equipment when required.

• Other Requirements:

o Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.

o Ability to work independently or as part of a team.

o A proactive approach to safety and risk management.

o Ability to work in a team-oriented, fast-paced environment.

o Flexibility to travel to different job sites within our service region as needed.

About Us: At Connectivity Tech Solutions, we are at the forefront of transforming connectivity for the modern world. Specializing in telecommunications and fiber optic networks, we provide innovative, reliable, and high-quality solutions to our clients.

Why Join Us?

At Connectivity Tech Solutions, we not only deploy core expertise in Fiber Optic network construction to deliver mission-critical Fiber Optic Infrastructure and Internet connectivity to clients nationally—we build relationships and deliver exceptional customer satisfaction with every project. As a Telecommunications Directional Drill Operator, you’ll get to work with cutting-edge technology, take on challenging and rewarding projects, and be part of a team that values safety, quality, and innovation.

• Competitive Salary: We offer highly competitive compensation based on experience.

• Dynamic Projects: Each day brings a new challenge, allowing you to work on a variety of interesting projects that impact communities.

How to Apply:

If you’re a highly skilled Directional Drill Operator with expertise and a passion for telecommunications, we encourage you to apply, send your resume and a brief cover letter to us today!

EEO Statement

We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all persons regardless of race, color, ancestry, citizenship, national origin, religion, veteran status, disability, genetic characteristic or information, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, family status, pregnancy, or other legally protected status (collectively, “protected statuses”). We do not tolerate unlawful discrimination in any employment decisions, including recruiting, hiring, compensation, promotion, benefits, discipline, termination, job assignments or training.

Disclaimer

The above job description is general in the nature and level of work that will be performed in this role. The job description is not designed to be fully inclusive of all the duties and responsibilities that can change based on the size and scope of work.