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Contract Underground Utility Locate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

GridHawk

Utility Locate Technician

Pontiac, MI · On-site

$16 - $19.75/hr

Locate underground utility lines, specifically gas and electric utilities, using appropriate tools and techniques. * Read and interpret prints, maps, and other documentation to accurately identify ...

GridHawk LLC

Utility Locate Technician

Bloomfield Hills, MI · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Locate underground utility lines, specifically gas and electric utilities, using appropriate tools and techniques. * Read and interpret prints, maps, and other documentation to accurately identify ...

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Contract Underground Utility Locate information

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$10

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How much do contract underground utility locate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract underground utility locate in the United States is $19.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract underground utility locate?

Contract Underground Utility Locators are professionals hired by companies or municipalities to identify and mark the location of underground utilities such as water, gas, electric, telecommunications, and sewer lines before excavation or construction projects begin. Their work helps prevent accidental damage to these critical infrastructures, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance. They typically use specialized equipment like electromagnetic locators and ground-penetrating radar to detect and map utility lines. Accurate locating minimizes the risk of service interruptions, costly repairs, and injuries on job sites.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract underground utility locate?

To thrive as a Contract Underground Utility Locator, you need strong knowledge of utility systems, map reading, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with electromagnetic locating equipment, GPS devices, and utility mapping software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills for accurately identifying utility lines and interacting with clients or contractors. These skills and qualities are essential to prevent costly damages, ensure public safety, and maintain efficient project timelines.

What are some common challenges faced by contract underground utility locates, and how can they be managed on the job?

Contract Underground Utility Locators often encounter challenges such as accurately interpreting utility maps, dealing with incomplete or outdated records, and working in varying weather conditions. Additionally, they may face time pressures to complete multiple locate requests within tight deadlines. Effective communication with property owners, construction crews, and utility companies is essential to ensure safe and precise marking. Staying organized, using advanced locating equipment, and adhering to safety protocols can help manage these challenges and ensure high-quality work.

What is the difference between Contract Underground Utility Locate vs Utility Locator?

AspectContract Underground Utility LocateUtility Locator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, utility locating certificationsOSHA safety training, utility locating certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, excavation projectsConstruction sites, excavation projects
Employer & IndustryContracting companies, utility companiesUtility companies, contractors
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding contractual utility locating servicesUnderstanding utility locating roles and responsibilities

Contract Underground Utility Locate professionals are typically hired through contracts to identify underground utilities before construction or excavation. Utility Locators may work directly for utility companies or contractors, performing similar locating tasks. Both roles require safety certifications and work in similar environments, but the contract role emphasizes project-based work, while utility locators may have ongoing employment with utility providers.

More about Contract Underground Utility Locate jobs

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Cities with the most Contract Underground Utility Locate job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Underground Utility Locate jobs?

The most popular types of Underground Utility Locate jobs are:

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States with the most job openings for Contract Underground Utility Locate jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Contract Underground Utility Locate jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Underground Utility Locate jobs are:

Contract Underground Utility Locate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Underground Utility Locate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,029 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Underground Utility Locate Supervisors

Danella Line Services

Chestertown, MD

$70K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Danella Line Services is looking for Underground Utility Locate Supervisors to work with locators responding to utility marking requests on behalf of our utility customers. Daily interaction with homeowners, excavators, and utility personnel is required.

Responsibilities include:

  • Assisting locators to access the locate requests, records and plans via an internet enabled iPad or laptop.
  • Coaching utility locators on the proper use of the locate equipment to accurately mark the location of the underground facilities
  • Verifying the locates and confirming that proper documentation of the locate has been entered into the online ticket management system.
  • Managing a team of 10+ locators to ensure quality, accuracy and safety standards are met daily.

Key Skills & Requirements

  • Experience: 4+ years in utility locating.
  • Previous supervisory experience preferred.
  • Excellent communication skills are required.  
  • Gas, Electric and Communication locate experience preferred. 
  • Tools & Knowledge: Proficiency with locating equipment (Metrotech,  Radio Detection, inductive/conductive tools), 811 systems, and utility maps.
  • Leadership: Ability to supervise crews, ensure safety compliance, and coordinate with utility managers.
  • Physical Requirements: Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work outside in all weather conditions

Salary based upon previous experience.