About Underworld, LLC.

A specialized firm focused on the construction of underground infrastructure that enables digital connectivity. The organization upholds operational excellence, the highest standards of safety, and rigorous accountability throughout its field operations. Disciplined processes guide daily work, and every team member is expected to demonstrate professionalism, clear communication, and complete ownership of their role. Experienced professionals who share a commitment to quality, reliability, and integrity are sought for every project.

About the role

We are hiring experienced Horizontal Directional Drill Operators to run Vermeer D24-class equipment on utility installation projects. This is a hands-on field role for operators who take ownership of the machine, work tightly with the locator, and maintain strict discipline around locates, safety systems, and daily documentation.

Travel is required. Candidates must be flexible with overnight stays and project-based work away from the home base.

What you'll do

• Operate Vermeer 23/30 (or comparable) HDD equipment through full cycles: pilot bore, reaming, and product pullback.
• Perform thorough daily pre-start inspections and end-of-day closeouts with full accountability.
• Coordinate continuously with the locator to maintain accurate guidance, depth, and pitch while protecting existing utilities.
• Support potholing and soft digs using vacuum excavation equipment as needed.
• Follow all 811/One-Call processes, verified locates, and supervisor morning authorization requirements before any rods enter the ground.
• Maintain clear communication with the locator and supervisor throughout the shift.
• Complete digital daily checklists accurately and on time.
• Identify and report equipment issues, near misses, or changing conditions immediately.
• Support safe, efficient crew operations and leave the work area and equipment in proper condition at the end of each shift.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of hands-on experience operating horizontal directional drills in the 20k–40k lbs class (Vermeer 23/30 or very close equivalents strongly preferred).
• Proven experience running full HDD cycles on utility work.
• Working knowledge of locates fundamentals: 811/One-Call process, ticket validity, white-lining, potholing, and real-time coordination with a locator and foreman.
• Ability to operate a vacuum excavator for potholing and soft digs.
• Tech-comfortable — able to use electronic guidance systems, machine diagnostics, and digital forms/checklists without resistance.
• Strong safety mindset with demonstrated discipline around electrical strike alert systems, emergency stops, and stopping work when conditions are not right.
• Willingness and ability to travel for overnight and multi-day project work.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug test (and comply with ongoing drug testing requirements).
• Professional references will be required and will be checked.

Preferred Qualifications

• CDL (Class A or B with air brakes) preferred but not required.
• Bilingual (Spanish/English).
• Manufacturer training on Vermeer HDD equipment.
• Current OSHA 10 or 30 and First Aid/CPR certification.
• Prior experience working under formal daily authorization processes (permits + verified locates before start of work).

What Success Looks Like

Operators who succeed in this role own the machine and the process. They treat locates and safety systems as non-negotiable, communicate clearly with the locator, foreman and supervisor, complete documentation without shortcuts, and remain flexible when work requires travel. We run a disciplined daily system — pre-start, authorization, execution, and closeout — and expect every operator to uphold it.