Horizontal Directional Driller

Horizontal Directional Driller (HDD Operator) Tradestaff is looking for an experienced Horizontal Directional Driller (HDD Operator) to join civil and underground infrastructure projects in North West Auckland. Bring your trenchless drilling expertise to a crew where accuracy, machine control, and safe execution matter. Location: North West Auckland, Auckland Start date: Immediate start Pay rate: $35–$42 per hour + weekly pay What You'll Be Doing Set up and operate HDD rigs for trenchless underground installations Complete pilot bores to specified alignments, depths, grades, and bore profiles Track and steer the drill head accurately throughout each bore Carry out pre-reaming, back-reaming, and product pullback operations Select suitable tooling and manage drilling fluids for changing ground conditions Interpret bore plans, utility drawings, and underground service information Complete pre-start checks and coordinate with locators, spotters, and ground crews What We're Looking For Proven hands‑on experience operating Horizontal Directional Drilling rigs Strong knowledge of pilot drilling, tracking, reaming, and product pullback Experience working safely around live and existing underground utilities Ability to understand bore profiles and adapt drilling techniques to ground conditions Strong focus on accuracy, equipment care, and safe operating practices Full NZ driver licence preferred, with WTR endorsements highly desirable Class 2 or Class 4 licence and relevant civil tickets are advantageous What's in It for You? Potential for long-term work Exposure to varied civil and underground infrastructure projects Work alongside experienced drilling and civil crews Opportunity to further develop specialist trenchless construction skills Hands‑on involvement with modern drilling equipment and techniques PPE provided where required Support from the Tradestaff team throughout your assignment #J-18808-Ljbffr