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Drill Operator / Locator

15/08/2025
12/09/2025
Permanent - Full Time
New Plymouth
Operator

Join Drillco as a Drill Operator/Locator in New Plymouth, full-time, permanent, delivering underground utility projects across NZ.

About Drillco

Drillco is a wholly NZ owned civil construction business with offices in Taranaki and Manawatu. We specialise in Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) and Trenching for the installation of undergrounds utitilies including Power, Gas, Water and Fibre. Our TrafficWorx and Locate IT divisions allow Drillco to offer a full range of services to ensure simplicity on your next project.

Drillco prides itself on having the best equipment to ensure we get the job done to the highest standard, on time and on budget.

Job Description

As a Drill Operator / Locator, you will play a key role in delivering accurate drilling and locating services to support a range of Drillco projects. This role requires technical expertise, precision, and the ability to work closely with your team to achieve project goals safely and efficiently.

When not drilling or locating, you will also contribute to other site activities, including operating plant such as trucks and excavators, performing labouring tasks, and carrying out general civil duties.

Key responsibilities include: 

  • Operate directional drills and locating equipment per project specifications and site conditions.
  • Conduct pre-drilling inspections, locate underground services, and prepare sites.
  • Monitor drilling progress, maintain accuracy, and adjust methods as needed.
  • Perform routine maintenance, cleaning, and defect reporting for equipment.
  • Maintain accurate records of drilling locations, depths, and milestones.
  • Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental requirements, including PPE use.
  • Undertake additional civil or plant operation duties as required.
  • Travel and work away from home as scheduled.

Desired Skills and Experience

  • Proven experience in directional drilling and locating within civil, utilities, or related industries
  • Proficiency with HDD equipment and locating systems (e.g., Ditch Witch, Vermeer)
  • Ability to read and interpret drilling plans, utility maps, and as-builts
  • Knowledge of soil conditions, drilling fluids, and safe drilling practices
  • Understanding of workplace safety regulations and site hazard management
  • Physical strength and stamina for manual labour tasks
  • Full NZ Class 2 driver licence and WTR endorsements

Additional qualifications such as First Aid, Confined Space Entry, Working at Heights, Traffic Control, or service location skills would be advantageous.

Missing a few attributes or level of experience that we’re looking for? 
Don’t let that hold you back. If you’ve got the right attitude, we want to hear from you! Apply now!

Please note, candidates must have the right to work in NZ and pre-employment drug and alcohol testing applies.

For more information, please contact us via email at recruitment@drillco.co.nz.

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