About National Fiber Construction

National Fiber Construction Co. (NFC) is a horizontal directional drilling and fiber optic installation contractor with over 35 years of experience. We self-perform underground and aerial telecom construction, FTTH installation, fiber splicing, handhole/pedestal/vault work, and directional boring for major carriers and municipal clients across Michigan. Our crews run a Ditch Witch HDD fleet on a 4 10 schedule.

We're hiring experienced HDD Operators and Locators to join our field crews.

What You'll Do

Operate Ditch Witch directional drills (JT20-class and similar) to install fiber conduit in urban, suburban, and rural environments

Run electronic locating systems (Underground Magnetics, Subsite, or equivalent) to track drill head position, depth, and pitch in real time

Communicate continuously with the drill operator or locator to hold bore path, grade, and safe clearance from existing utilities

Read and interpret construction prints, bore plans, utility locates, and shot sheets --- and flag discrepancies in the field

Perform potholing and visual verification of underground crossings before and during the bore

Mix and manage drilling fluids --- understand viscosity, flow rates, and when to adjust the mud program

Maintain bore logs, as-builts, redlines, and daily production documentation

Assist with rig setup/teardown, rod handling, tooling changes, and site restoration

Conduct or participate in pre-job safety briefings and adhere to OSHA and company safety standards

Report underground conflicts, utility damage, or safety hazards immediately

What We're Looking For

Required:

3+ years operating HDD rigs or locating in telecom/utility construction

Ability to read construction drawings, bore profiles, and utility maps

Hands-on knowledge of Underground Magnetics, Subsite, or Vermeer tracking systems

Strong understanding of 811 processes and underground utility identification

Valid driver's license (CDL preferred; willingness to obtain CDL with company support required)

Must pass pre-employment drug screen and background check

Physically able to lift 50 lbs., walk bore paths, and work outdoors in all weather

Preferred:

FTTH (Fiber to the Home) build experience

Experience boring in high-risk areas --- live gas, electric, water, and sewer

Experience with hydro-vac, excavator, or other support equipment

Highway traffic control knowledge or flagger certification

Knowledge of mud mixing and drilling fluid systems

Benefits

Competitive pay based on experience with annual performance reviews and merit increases

Co-pay Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement with company match

Paid time off, paid holidays, paid drive time, and paid sick leave

CDL training support

Career advancement path --- we promote from within

Maintained Ditch Witch fleet and modern locating systems

Physical Requirements

Able to lift 50 lbs., including tools, equipment, and drill components

Able to stand, walk, kneel, crouch, and bend for extended periods on uneven terrain

Comfortable working outdoors in all Michigan weather --- heat, cold, rain, and snow

Willing to work in close proximity to vehicular traffic and active utility corridors

National Fiber Construction Co. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

National Fiber Construction Co. jobs

HDD Operator / Locator - Fiber Optic Construction