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811 Utility Locator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Utility Locator I

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

The Utility Locator I is an entry level position working under direction of a SUE Analyst on projects related to locating underground utilities and designating them with paint and flags to produce ...

Underground Utility Locator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

The Underground Utility Locator assists the survey crew by locating and marking underground utilities for various projects. This position can be an in-office and field combination for the right ...

Underground Utility Locator

Raleigh, NC

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

The Underground Utility Locator assists the survey crew by locating and marking underground utilities for various projects. This position can be an in-office and field combination for the right ...

Utility Locator

Durham, NC · On-site

$20/hr

Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground utilities, including telecommunications, electric power, cable TV, gas, water, and sewer systems.

Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground utilities, including telecommunications, electric power, cable TV, gas, water, and sewer systems.

Underground Utility Locator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

The Underground Utility Locator assists the survey crew by locating and marking underground utilities for various projects. This position can be an in-office and field combination for the right ...

Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground utilities, including telecommunications, electric power, cable TV, gas, water, and sewer systems.

Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground utilities, including telecommunications, electric power, cable TV, gas, water, and sewer systems.

Utility Locator

Durham, NC · On-site

$20/hr

Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground utilities, including telecommunications, electric power, cable TV, gas, water, and sewer systems.

Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground utilities, including telecommunications, electric power, cable TV, gas, water, and sewer systems.

Utility Locator

Durham, NC · On-site

$20/hr

Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground utilities, including telecommunications, electric power, cable TV, gas, water, and sewer systems.

What You'll Do You'll locate underground utilities (gas) before digging projects begin. Using maps and equipment, you'll mark where utilities are to keep crews safe and prevent damage. This is a ...

What You'll Do You'll locate underground utilities (gas) before digging projects begin. Using maps and equipment, you'll mark where utilities are to keep crews safe and prevent damage. This is a ...

SUE Technician III (Utility Locator)

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

Minimum 5 to 10 years of progressive experience as a utility locator or SUE Technician; proficiency with SUE locating equipment, proficiency with total stations and GPS, SUE locating equipment and ...

SUE Technician III (Utility Locator)

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

Minimum 5 to 10 years of progressive experience as a utility locator or SUE Technician; proficiency with SUE locating equipment, proficiency with total stations and GPS, SUE locating equipment and ...

Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Use locating equipment to determine the location of gas lines in a designated area and mark the area with paint and flags to prevent damage to utility ...

Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Use locating equipment to determine the location of gas lines in a designated area and mark the area with paint and flags to prevent damage to utility ...

Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Use locating equipment to determine the location of gas lines in a designated areaand mark the area with paint and flags to prevent damage to utility ...

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811 Utility Locator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$13

$17

$26

How much do 811 utility locator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for 811 utility locator in Raleigh, NC is $17.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $18.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an 811 utility locator?

811 Utility Locators are professionals responsible for identifying and marking the locations of underground utilities—such as gas, water, electric, and telecommunications lines—before excavation or construction projects begin. Their work ensures that digging does not accidentally damage critical infrastructure, helping to prevent service disruptions, injuries, or costly repairs. 811 Utility Locators use specialized equipment to detect buried lines and mark them with paint or flags according to standardized color codes. They play a vital role in public safety and infrastructure protection.

What are some common challenges 811 utility locators face in the field, and how can they be managed?

811 Utility Locators often encounter challenges such as difficult weather conditions, navigating busy or hazardous job sites, and interpreting unclear utility maps. Managing these challenges requires strong attention to safety protocols, effective communication with supervisors and other site workers, and ongoing training to stay updated on best practices. Many companies provide supportive teams and regular safety meetings to help locators address these issues and ensure accurate, efficient work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an 811 utility locator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an 811 Utility Locator, you need a solid understanding of utility mapping, underground infrastructure, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Familiarity with electromagnetic locating equipment, GPS devices, and utility mapping software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for accurately identifying utility lines and collaborating with contractors. These skills are crucial to prevent damage, ensure public safety, and maintain efficient construction and excavation operations.

What is the difference between 811 Utility Locator vs Cable Locator?

Aspect811 Utility LocatorCable Locator
CertificationsTypically required or preferredOften required or preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, utility companiesConstruction, maintenance, and repair sites
Industry UsageUtility locating for excavation safety

The 811 Utility Locator primarily focuses on identifying underground utility lines to prevent damage during excavation, often working for utility companies or contractors. Cable Locators are used to find underground or overhead cables, including telecommunications and electrical lines, often in construction or maintenance settings. While both roles involve locating underground infrastructure, 811 Utility Locators specialize in utility safety and compliance, making them essential for excavation projects, whereas Cable Locators have a broader scope including various cable types.

Are 811 Utility Locators in demand?

Yes, 811 Utility Locators are in demand due to the ongoing need for underground utility safety and infrastructure maintenance. The role requires knowledge of locating tools and often involves working with utility companies, with employment opportunities increasing as infrastructure projects expand and safety regulations tighten.

How to become a certified 811 Utility Locator?

To become a certified 811 Utility Locator, individuals typically need to complete specialized training through a recognized utility or safety training program, which covers underground utility identification, safety procedures, and the use of locating tools like ground-penetrating radar or electromagnetic locators. Certification requirements vary by region but often include passing a written exam and gaining practical experience. Maintaining certification may require ongoing education or recertification courses.

Is it hard to be an 811 Utility Locator?

Being an 811 Utility Locator involves physically demanding work, attention to detail, and knowledge of underground utility markings and safety protocols. The job often requires working outdoors in various weather conditions and may involve using specialized tools like ground-penetrating radar or utility maps. While it can be challenging, proper training and certifications can help develop the necessary skills for success.

What are popular job titles related to 811 Utility Locator jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For 811 Utility Locator jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching 811 Utility Locator jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for 811 Utility Locator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for 811 Utility Locator jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most 811 Utility Locator job openings:

Infographic showing various 811 Utility Locator job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,249 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Utility Locator I

McKim & Creed

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


McKim & Creed rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 450 rated engineering


Job description

OVERVIEW: The Utility Locator I is an entry level position working under direction of a SUE Analyst on projects related to locating underground utilities and designating them with paint and flags to produce accurate field sketches of results for use by client.

 DURING YOUR WORK DAY, YOU WILL:

  • Learn to utilize maps, records, and other resources to accurately locate underground utility lines.
  • Learn to utilize some Subsurface Utility Engineering field equipment; i.e. ground penetrating radar, electromagnetic designating equipment, sewer camera, probe rod, jackhammer, pneumatic tampers, vacuum excavation equipment, and other geophysical means using all safety protocols, industry standards and guidelines.
  • Maintain accurate records of utility locations and updates.
  • Conduct regular inspections and assessments to identify potential hazards or issues.
  • Assist with maintenance of vehicles, equipment, and work sites.
  • Adhere to all company policies and procedures.
  • Perform other duties as assigned. 

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:  

  • High School/GED or equivalent preferred, specialized training from a vo-tech school or Rod person/Instrument person experience a plus.
  • Entry level 0 to 3 years of proven experience as a utility locator or SUE Technician.
  • Experience as a utility locator or a similar role is a plus.
  • Knowledge of underground utility systems and the ability to interpret maps and records is a plus.
  • Familiarity with utility locating equipment, such as electromagnetic locators and ground-penetrating radar is a plus.
  • Walking outdoors for long periods of time through all kinds of terrain, including urban, suburban, and rural locations, and working under adverse conditions (heat, cold, hills, swamps, wildlife & insects, high traffic areas).
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Occasional overnight travel will be required.
  • Work 50hours during busy periods.
  • Ability to lift 50 pounds, carry, and operate equipment as needed on the project.
  • Ability to travel daily.
  • Excellent attention to detail and the ability to work in fast-paced environments.
  • Can work unsupervised when required.
  • Current Commercial Driver’s License is a plus.
  • Background & motor vehicle checks, and pre-employment drug screening are conditions of employment.

WHAT WILL MAKE YOU STAND OUT:

  • Self-motivated with an entrepreneurial spirit.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills.
  • Motivated to learn and develop your career path.
  • Aligned to McKim & Creed’s core values and culture.
  • Sound functional/technical skills in the role.

 WHAT WE OFFER: Join a company that puts its employees first.
Ranked as one of the Best Firms to Work For, here are just some of the reasons to become part of the McKim & Creed team:

  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP): All employees are owners & benefit from profits earned
  • Competitive pay paid holidays, bereavement and parental, medical, and military leave
  • Multiple office locations to work from: Stick close to home or travel for a change of scenery
  • Growth opportunities & training: Grow confidently in your career with our mentoring & training options
  • Professional development: Tuition reimbursement, early career professional program, online courses & more
  • Work that makes a difference: See the direct impact your work has on our communities
  • Collaborative, supportive team: People to help you solve problems, cheer successes & encourage you along the way

 McKim & Creed is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer, and VEVRAA Federal Contractor and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status and maintains a Drug Free Workplace.

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