Horizontal Directional Driller (HDD) - Experimental Field Testing

ABOUT THE ROLE We are looking for a hands-on Horizontal Directional Driller (HDD) to join our team at our testing facility in Lockhart, Texas. This is not a standard utility drilling job. You will work directly with our engineering team to test and develop new horizontal drilling technologies, equipment, drilling methods, tooling, and experimental systems. The work is highly hands-on and takes place primarily outdoors. Some days will involve operating drilling equipment, while others may involve modifying equipment, preparing experiments, troubleshooting problems, collecting data, or helping engineers understand what is happening downhole. This position is currently offered one month at a time, with the possibility of continued work based on our testing schedule and performance. WHAT YOU'LL DO - Operate and assist with horizontal directional drilling equipment - Support drilling experiments and field testing - Help set up, operate, and break down drilling equipment - Work directly with engineers during testing - Provide practical feedback based on real-world drilling experience - Monitor drilling performance, pressure, fluids, tooling, and ground conditions - Handle drill rods, tooling, hoses, drilling fluids, and other equipment - Assist with equipment modifications and troubleshooting - Perform basic maintenance and inspection of drilling equipment - Record observations and help document test results - Maintain a clean and safe outdoor test site - Perform general physical field work when required WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR Required: - Previous experience working with Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) - Comfortable working around drilling rigs, rods, tooling, mud systems, hydraulics, and heavy equipment - Mechanically inclined and comfortable troubleshooting equipment - Willing and able to perform physical work outdoors - Able to lift approximately 50 lbs - Comfortable working in Texas heat and changing weather conditions - Reliable transportation to our Lockhart test site - Strong safety mindset - Comfortable working in a fast-moving experimental environment where not every day looks the same Preferred: - Experience operating Vermeer, Ditch Witch, Grundodrill, Grundopit, or similar HDD equipment - Experience with drilling mud and fluid systems - Experience locating or steering HDD bores - Experience maintaining or repairing drilling equipment - CDL or experience transporting heavy equipment - Construction, utility, pipeline, boring, or underground infrastructure experience WHO THIS JOB IS GOOD FOR This is a good fit for an experienced driller who enjoys machines, problem-solving, experimentation, and figuring out how to make equipment perform better. We are less interested in formal education and more interested in someone who understands drilling, knows how equipment behaves in the field, works hard, and isn't afraid to get dirty. COMPENSATION Starting pay: $30/hour Higher compensation may be available for candidates with significant HDD operating, locating, mechanical, or equipment troubleshooting experience. This position is initially guaranteed one month at a time. There may be opportunities to extend the position as our testing program continues. SCHEDULE Schedule will depend on our testing program. Candidates should have some flexibility for longer test days when required. All work is performed primarily outdoors at our Lockhart, TX testing facility.