HDD Tracker / Locator – Bahrain

About the role

A UK civil engineering and tunnelling contractor is looking for an experienced HDD Tracker/Locator to join its Bahrain HDD operations team. The role keeps the drill head on the approved bore path during horizontal directional drilling, ensuring installations are completed safely, accurately and efficiently while protecting existing underground services.

Key responsibilities

• Operate electronic HDD locating and tracking equipment such as DigiTrak F5 or equivalent to give the rig operator continuous, accurate information on drill head position, depth, pitch and direction.
• Read and interpret utility drawings, bore profiles, alignment drawings, topography and approved construction drawings, and mark bore paths and tracking points where required.
• Maintain the drill head on the approved line and level, identify deviations needing steering correction and assist the HDD operator and manager in monitoring bore progress.
• Keep accurate bore logs, depth records, pitch readings, rod-by-rod tracking records and as-built information in line with the approved ITP and project requirements.
• Coordinate with the drill operator, mud engineer, survey team and ground crew, and immediately report changes in depth, alignment, signal interference or tracking accuracy.
• Ensure locating equipment is set up, calibrated and maintained; work to company SHEQ requirements, project RAMS, permit-to-work systems and client requirements; take part in briefings, toolbox talks and pre-start meetings; report hazards, service conflicts and near misses; keep the site tidy.

Required profile

• At least 5 years' experience as an HDD Locator/Tracker or as an HDD rig crew member with proven locating experience.
• Good understanding of underground utilities and safe drilling practices.
• Physically able to work outdoors and walk the bore alignment for long periods, including in high-temperature Middle Eastern summer conditions.
• Preferred: experience on medium and large rigs for pipeline, water, sewer, power, telecoms and industrial projects, and familiarity with client-specific ITPs, RAMS and utility clearance procedures.

Required skills

• DigiTrak F5 or similar HDD tracking and locating systems.
• Understanding of HDD steering principles, drill head orientation, pitch, depth and bore profile control.
• Ability to read construction drawings, utility drawings and bore profiles, and to keep accurate tracking records.
• Strong communication with the HDD rig operator.