Drilling Operator

Drilling Operator - Lead Precision Boring for Critical Fiber Infrastructure ProjectsJob OverviewCompany: Cherokee Fiber & Associates Inc.Salary/Pay Rate: Competitive $70,000-$83,000 based on experience.Location: Onsite (Canton, GA).Job/Employment Type: Full-Time.Schedule: Monday - Friday, Weekends, and Overtime.Project Scope: Residential, Commercial, Industrial, and Government/Federal.Mandatory Licenses & Certifications: Valid Driver's CDLThe Opportunity You will serve as a technical expert in directional drilling, executing precise underground boring to facilitate the expansion of vital telecommunications networks. This role empowers you to master sophisticated machinery while ensuring the structural integrity of critical infrastructure for our residential and government partners.How You Will Make an ImpactExecute precise horizontal directional drilling to install fiber optic conduits according to technical engineering plans.Monitor soil conditions and utility markings to prevent damage to existing infrastructure and ensure site safety.Maintain all drilling equipment and specialized tools to ensure maximum uptime and operational efficiency.Collaborate with field crews to coordinate bore paths and ensure seamless integration with line installation teams.Document daily drilling progress and safety inspections to maintain project transparency and compliance.Represent the company's commitment to quality by maintaining organized and professional job sites.Required Qualifications & ExperienceProven experience operating directional drilling rigs (20-100,000 lb) and specialized boring equipment in the utility sector.Active Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a clean driving record for transporting heavy equipment.Advanced proficiency in reading site blueprints and interpreting underground utility markings.Strong adherence to OSHA standards and industry-specific safety protocols during high-stakes operations.Physical ability to work in various outdoor environments and handle the manual demands of field operations.Preferred Qualifications & ExperiencePrevious experience with government-contracted infrastructure or prevailing wage projects.Demonstrated ability to perform basic mechanical troubleshooting on drilling fluid systems and rigs.Compensation & BenefitsWeekly pay cycle and eligibility for a Year-End Bonus.Retirement Savings Program featuring an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and 401K.Full medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.Paid time off including vacation and holidays.Career development through paid training and professional certifications.Personal tool replacement program and provided safety equipment.Company vehicles and uniforms provided for all field staff.Relocation assistance and travel projects with per diem.About Us Cherokee Fiber & Associates is a premier telecommunications contractor dedicated to connecting communities through superior residential, commercial, and industrial fiber solutions. We pride ourselves on being an employee-owned company that invests in the long-term success and safety of our field professionals.Learn more at https://www.cherokeefiber.com/.