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Entry Level Utility Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Utility Locator

Chicago, IL

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Comprehensive entry-level underground utility locating experience * Professional development in industry-standard locating tools, methods, and equipment * Training in safe worksite practices and ...

Utility Locator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Comprehensive entry-level underground utility locating experience * Professional development in industry-standard locating tools, methods, and equipment * Training in safe worksite practices and ...

Utility Locator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Comprehensive entry-level underground utility locating experience * Professional development in industry-standard locating tools, methods, and equipment * Training in safe worksite practices and ...

This is an entry-level position within the Operations Department. Utility Operators are responsible for operating tractor trailers and/or front-end loaders to support petcoke handling activities. The ...

Utility Operator

Lemont, IL · On-site

$32 - $37.43/hr

This is an entry-level position within the Operations Department. Utility Operators are responsible for operating tractor trailers and/or front-end loaders to support petcoke handling activities. The ...

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Entry Level Utility information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$20

$33

How much do entry level utility jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level utility in Chicago, IL is $20.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $23.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level utility?

Entry level utility workers are employees who perform basic tasks to support the maintenance and operation of utility services, such as water, electricity, gas, or sanitation. Their responsibilities may include assisting with repairs, inspecting equipment, operating simple machinery, and maintaining work areas. These positions often require minimal prior experience and provide on-the-job training, making them ideal for individuals starting their careers in the utility industry. Entry level utility workers play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth and safe delivery of essential services to communities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level utility?

To thrive as an Entry Level Utility worker, you generally need a high school diploma or GED, basic mechanical aptitude, and a willingness to learn on the job. Familiarity with hand tools, safety protocols, and sometimes specific training or certifications like OSHA are commonly required. Dependability, teamwork, and strong communication skills help individuals excel in fast-paced, physically demanding environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining safety, efficiency, and smooth operations in utility or industrial settings.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level utility workers and how can they be managed?

Entry level utility workers often face challenges such as adapting to physically demanding tasks, working in various weather conditions, and learning to safely operate equipment. Managing these challenges typically involves thorough onboarding, ongoing safety training, and mentorship from more experienced team members. It's important to ask questions, stay proactive about learning, and adhere strictly to safety protocols to ensure both personal and team success.

What is the difference between Entry Level Utility vs Entry Level Electrician?

AspectEntry Level UtilityEntry Level Electrician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; apprenticeship or technical training
Work EnvironmentUtility companies, power plants, water treatment facilitiesConstruction sites, residential, commercial, industrial buildings
Employer & Industry UsageUtility companies, public service providersElectrical contractors, construction firms, industrial plants
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Utility vs Entry Level Electrician

While both roles involve working with electrical systems, Entry Level Utility positions typically focus on supporting utility infrastructure and require less specialized training initially. Entry Level Electricians perform more hands-on electrical installations and repairs, often requiring technical training or apprenticeships. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path based on their skills and interests.

What are the most commonly searched types of Utility jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Utility jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Utility jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Entry Level Utility jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Utility jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Utility jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Utility job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,266 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Quanta Services rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th 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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