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Entry Level Utility Locator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Utility Locator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

HBK Engineering is seeking a Utility Locator, this role involves locating and marking underground ... Comprehensive entry-level underground utility locating experience * Professional development in ...

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Entry Level Utility Locator information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$17

$23

How much do entry level utility locator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level utility locator in Illinois is $17.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $17.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do you need to become an entry level utility locator?

To become an entry level utility locator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic knowledge of underground utility systems, and the ability to operate locating tools such as ground-penetrating radar or electromagnetic detectors. Some employers may require safety training or certifications like OSHA, and physical stamina is often necessary for outdoor work in various weather conditions.

What is the difference between Entry Level Utility Locator vs Apprentice Utility Locator?

AspectEntry Level Utility LocatorApprentice Utility Locator
CertificationsBasic safety and locator trainingSimilar certifications, often in training phase
Work EnvironmentFieldwork locating underground utilitiesFieldwork with supervised training
Employer UsageEntry-level position in utility locating companiesTraining role within utility companies or contractors
Search IntentUnderstanding entry-level utility locating rolesLearning about apprenticeship opportunities

Both roles involve underground utility locating, requiring safety training and fieldwork. An Entry Level Utility Locator is typically an entry-position worker, while an Apprentice Utility Locator is in a training phase, gaining experience under supervision. The main difference lies in experience level and training status, with both roles serving as stepping stones in utility locating careers.

What are the most commonly searched types of Utility Locator jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Utility Locator jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Utility Locator jobs in Illinois?

For Entry Level Utility Locator jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Utility Locator jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Utility Locator job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Utility Locator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,445 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Utility Locator

Quanta Services

Chicago, IL • On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Quanta Services rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 80 rated construction


Job description

HBK Engineering, LLC is a fully licensed, professional engineering design firm headquartered in Chicago, IL with a staff approaching 700 individuals. HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support services and permitting facilitation. Since our founding in 1998, we have earned a reputation for delivering outstanding, accurate services in extremely time-sensitive, multilayered environments. That "industry-recognized" performance has propelled our expansion and the ability to provide engineering services in all 50 states. With 25 offices nationwide, including concentrations in the Midwest and on the Coasts, HBK brings together a dedicated team whose main focus is the design and protection of utilities and utility networks. We have successfully performed engineering work for a complete spectrum of utility infrastructure projects providing solutions and construction support from Coast to Coast in areas ranging from complex urban city centers, to rural greenfields, to limited access rights-of-way. In July 2020, HBK Engineering was acquired by Quanta Services. Quanta Services provides infrastructure services for electric power, pipeline, and communications industries and employees over 50,000 people. Quanta’s focus on the utility industry and HBK’s focus on constructability in our designs has made our integration into the Quanta family of companies seamless.


HBK Engineering is seeking a Utility Locator, this role involves locating and marking underground facilities using various industry tools, standards, and methods including locating devices and utility maps. The position requires working in the field in all weather conditions to record documentation to identify errors and omissions while verifying the location of all client facilities within specified dig extents and serving as a firm/client liaison in utility locating operations. Work location: Chicago, IL


  • Locate and mark underground facilities using various industry tools, standards, and methods including locating devices and utility maps
  • Compare real-world conditions to record documentation to identify errors and omissions for accuracy verification
  • Verify location of all client facilities within specified dig extents to ensure comprehensive coverage
  • Examine and investigate all damages within their purview, creating all required documentation for compliance and record-keeping
  • Watch and protect client facilities within a given area as directed by client for safety and security
  • Understand contractor's means and methods for subsurface installations to support project coordination
  • Serve as firm/client liaison to facilitate communication and project coordination
  • Review design drawings created by others to ensure accuracy and completeness
  • Use and perform basic maintenance of industry standard locating equipment
  • Move about on construction work sites, public streets, and parkways safely and efficiently
  • Communicate effectively with citizens, company representatives, contractors, and customers
  • Maintain organized documentation and reporting systems for all locating activities.

  • High school diploma or GED certificate
  • Valid driver's license in good standing
  • Experience working outdoors in all weather conditions is required
  • Previous underground utility locating experience preferred
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work smoothly with citizens, company representatives, contractors, and customers
  • Good organizational skills to handle many varied tasks simultaneously
  • Knowledge and understanding of safe worksite practices
  • Experience with construction and installation of below-grade infrastructure
  • Experience working within and utilizing existing utility standard designs
  • Experience with complex urban underground utility infrastructure
  • Experience serving as firm/client liaison
  • Experience reviewing design drawings created by others
  • Experience in use and basic maintenance of industry standard locating equipment
  • Experience using basic communication and tech devices
  • Physical capability to move about on construction work sites, public streets, and parkways
  • Ability to lift up to 75 pounds
  • Ability to stand, walk, kneel, or sit for extended periods
  • Hand-eye coordination necessary to operate computers and various measurement, locating, and testing instruments.

  • Comprehensive entry-level underground utility locating experience
  • Professional development in industry-standard locating tools, methods, and equipment
  • Training in safe worksite practices and construction site operations
  • Experience with complex urban underground utility infrastructure
  • Client liaison responsibilities for professional communication and coordination
  • Hands-on training with locating devices, utility maps, and documentation systems
  • Field experience on construction work sites and public infrastructure projects
  • Clear career progression pathway within the HBK Organization's Locating Track
  • Opportunity to develop expertise in utility standard designs and subsurface installations
  • Foundation for advancing to senior locating and utility coordination roles.
  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, disability and employer paid life insurance. In addition, all full-time roles are also eligible for 401(k) retirement plan with company match, paid time off and holidays. Tuition reimbursement and other role specific company paid professional development opportunities are also available.

The anticipated compensation for this position is USD $19.00/Yr. - USD $23.00/Yr. depending on experience and qualifications.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.
We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company’s Human Resources department.


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