HDD Operative

Other
Scotland
May 1, 2026
Permanent
Urgent

Job Description

HDD Operative – Horizontal Directional Drilling

Ogenus Offshore is a specialist recruitment and manpower partner supporting the offshore energy sector across oil & gas, marine, and renewables. With strong operational understanding and an international network of talent, we help clients build reliable crews and project teams fast, safely, and with full compliance.

We support our clients with workforce solutions for offshore and onshore projects worldwide. This position is being offered on behalf of one of our trusted clients.

The HDD Operative is responsible for executing trenchless drilling activities safely and efficiently in line with company procedures, project specifications, and industry best practices.

Job Title

HDD Operative (Horizontal Directional Drilling)

Location

United Kingdom – Scotland

Rotation

Typically 2 weeks on / long weekend off (subject to project requirements)

Employment Type

Contract

Start Date

To be confirmed

Key Responsibilities

  • Support the safe set-up, operation, and shutdown of HDD rigs and associated plant

  • Assist with or lead horizontal directional drilling operations, including pilot bore, reaming, and pullback activities

  • Work closely with the locator / steering function to maintain the planned bore alignment and depth

  • Support drilling fluids (mud) systems and assist with mixing, monitoring, and basic maintenance

  • Assist with pipe or duct handling, tooling changes, and rig equipment maintenance

  • Maintain accurate drill logs, as-built documentation, and quality assurance checks

  • Follow project RAMS, method statements, and safety procedures

  • Maintain strong awareness of buried utilities, environmental controls, and safe plant movement

  • Contribute to general site housekeeping and equipment inspections

Qualifications & Certifications (Mandatory)

  • Proven experience working in Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) operations

  • Demonstrable involvement in pilot bore, reaming, and pullback operations

  • Experience operating or supporting HDD drilling rigs and trenchless equipment

  • Right to Work in the United Kingdom

  • Valid driving licence

Preferred Experience

  • Experience working with medium to large HDD drill spreads, including 250t or 500t rigs

  • Familiarity with equipment from manufacturers such as:

    • Vermeer
    • Ditch Witch
    • Grundodrill

  • Experience in utilities, fibre rollout, gas, water, or power infrastructure projects

  • Exposure to complex crossings (roads, rail, rivers, urban environments)

  • Experience working alongside locators / tracking / steering systems

Location

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