James Bruce
United Kingdom,ENG
Summary
Horizontal Directional Driller with extensive experience in utility, renewable energy, and pipeline installations. Expertise in operating American Auger DD1100 rigs, executing complex pilot bores and reaming operations. Proven ability to lead drilling crews, optimize drilling fluid systems, and ensure safety across diverse geological conditions.
Overview
1
1
Certification
2027
2027
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Horizontal Directional Driller
OCU Group
, United Kingdom
2026 - Current
- Operate American Auger DD1100 HDD rigs on major utility and renewable energy projects.
- Executed pilot bores, large-diameter reaming operations, and long-distance product installations to ensure project specifications.
- Led drilling crews while maintaining safe, productive operations.
- Monitored and optimized drilling fluid systems, enhancing bore stability and supporting efficient production.
- Conducted daily inspections of equipment to ensure operational readiness. and preventative maintenance.
- Collaborated with engineers, supervisors, and clients to successfully deliver complex HDD installations.
Horizontal Directional Driller
Peter McCormack & Sons / AMS No Dig
, United Kingdom
2021 - 2026
- Executed HDD installations for multiple utility projects, ensuring project specifications were met.
- Navigated diverse ground conditions, including rock, granite, and cobbles, to maintain operational efficiency.
- Supported drilling fluid management and equipment maintenance to optimize performance during operations.
Skills
- American Auger DD1100
- Large Diameter HDD
- Pilot Bore Operations
- Product Pullbacks
- Mud Engineering
- Bentonite Systems
- Polymer Systems
- Equipment Maintenance
- Utility Construction
- Pipeline Installation
- Crew Leadership
Certification
- CSCS
- NPORS
- SSSTS
- GWO (Global Wind Organisation)
- Excavator
- Telehandler
- HIAB Crane
- Full UK Driving Licence
Major Project Experience
- EA2 Offshore Wind Farm, 1,800 metre HDD installation, 38-inch reaming operation, Major renewable energy infrastructure project
- Exmouth Shore Approach, 1,200 metre HDD crossing, 42-inch reaming operation, Complex coastal drilling environment
Professional Highlights
- EA2 Offshore Wind Farm, 1,800 metre HDD installation, 38-inch reaming operation, Major renewable energy infrastructure project
- Exmouth Shore Approach, 1,200 metre HDD crossing, 42-inch reaming operation, Complex coastal drilling environment
Timeline
Lead Horizontal Directional Driller
OCU Group
2026 - Current
Horizontal Directional Driller
Peter McCormack & Sons / AMS No Dig
2021 - 2026