Horizontal Directional Driller (HDD) - Experimental Field Testing
Traysar · Austin · $30/hr (stated in the posting)
About the Role
We are looking for a hands-on Horizontal Directional Driller (HDD) to join our team at our testing facility in Austin, 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 as contract or consulting work that could convert to full-time if the demo gets funded based on our testing schedule and performance. Travel may be needed.
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 & Vertical Drilling
Mechanic & Fabrication experience
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 available for candidates with significant HDD operating, locating, mechanical, or equipment troubleshooting experience.
This position is initially guaranteed a one month contract 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 for travel and longer test days when required.
All work is performed primarily outdoors at our Lockhart, TX testing facility.
ITAR / EXPORT CONTROL REQUIREMENTS
This position requires access to technical data, software, and/or hardware controlled under U.S. export control laws, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a "U.S. person" as defined in 22 C.F.R. § 120.62, which includes a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), (iii) refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State (Directorate of Defense Trade Controls) and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce. Learn more about the ITAR at https://www.pmddtc.state.gov.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
Traysar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions at Traysar are based on merit, competence, qualifications, and business need, and are not influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status (except as required by law, regulation, executive order, or government contract), age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Traysar is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application and interview process. To request an accommodation, contact louise@traysar.com.