Operations Manager - Directional Drilling & Utilities

About Volution Utilities Volution Utilities is a growing underground utility contractor specializing in directional drilling, cable plowing, trenching, and fiber optic infrastructure throughout Texas. We are committed to delivering safe, efficient, and high-quality utility construction while building a team of industry professionals who take pride in their work. As we continue to grow, we are looking for an experienced Operations Manager to lead our field operations and play a key role in scaling our business. Position Summary The Operations Manager will be based out of our Houston office and oversee field operations across multiple active projects in the Greater Houston area and surrounding cities. This individual will be responsible for leading crews, maintaining production schedules, ensuring quality workmanship, managing equipment and manpower, and driving operational efficiency and profitability. This is a hands-on leadership position that requires regular travel to active jobsites. The ideal candidate enjoys being in the field, supporting crews, solving problems, and ensuring projects are executed safely, efficiently, and to the highest standards. Key Responsibilities Oversee daily field operations for multiple directional drilling, cable plow, and underground utility projects. Travel regularly to active jobsites throughout the Greater Houston area and surrounding cities. Build, organize, and lead high-performing field crews. Assign personnel to the appropriate roles based on experience and project needs. Read and interpret utility plans, construction drawings, and project specifications. Perform routine quality control inspections to ensure work meets company and client standards. Coordinate labor, equipment, materials, and subcontractors. Monitor production goals and identify opportunities to improve efficiency. Ensure all work is completed safely and in compliance with company policies. Mentor foremen and crew leaders while developing future leaders within the organization. Resolve field challenges and make timely operational decisions. Work closely with project management to maintain schedules and client expectations. Manage equipment utilization and coordinate maintenance needs. Track production, labor, equipment costs, and overall job profitability. Assist with workforce planning, forecasting, hiring, and training. Qualifications Minimum 5 years of experience managing directional drilling or underground utility operations. Strong knowledge of HDD, cable plowing, trenching, and underground utility construction. Experience with equipment such as: Directional drills (Vermeer, Ditch Witch, etc.) Cable plows Mini excavators Vacuum excavators Skid steers Support equipment Ability to read utility plans and construction drawings. Experience managing multiple field crews simultaneously. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills. Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities. Valid driver's license with a clean driving record. Willingness to travel regularly to jobsites throughout the Greater Houston region and surrounding markets. Preferred Qualifications Fiber optic construction experience Telecom utility installation Utility locating knowledge Bore planning and execution Equipment maintenance planning Production tracking and KPI reporting Experience with job costing, budgeting, and financial reporting Financial & Operational Responsibilities The ideal candidate understands that successful operations are measured by more than production. You should be comfortable managing: Labor productivity Equipment utilization Fuel consumption and operating costs Job costing and budget performance Profitability analysis Production forecasting Resource allocation Continuous process improvement What We're Looking For We are looking for someone who: Leads by example and earns the respect of the crews. Is comfortable working in the field, not just behind a desk. Holds teams accountable while building a positive culture. Understands how field decisions impact profitability. Takes ownership of projects from start to finish. Wants to help build one of the premier underground utility contractors in Texas. Compensation & Benefits Competitive salary based on experience Performance-based bonus opportunities Company vehicle or vehicle allowance Fuel card Paid Time Off Health benefits Career advancement opportunities Opportunity to help build and lead a rapidly growing company If you're an experienced underground utilities leader looking for an opportunity to make a real impact with a growing company, we'd love to hear from you. Join Volution Utilities and help drive the next phase of our growth. Pay: $75,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year Benefits: Paid time off Work Location: In person