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Locator Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

VAST Networks

HDD locator

Fresno, CA · On-site

$26 - $36/hr

Understanding of drill mechanics, soil types, fluid mixtures and locator technology * Ability to travel and work outside of business hours when needed, overtime, etc., in all seasons * Excellent ...

ACRT

Line Locator Tech II | Jackson, OH (DOT)

Jackson, OH

$12.50 - $15.50/hr

About the Role The Line Locator Technician reports to the Project Manager at Bermex. This position plays a key role in detecting and locating underground utility lines and pipes. This position also ...

ACRT

Line Locator Tech II | Jackson, OH (DOT)

Jackson, OH · On-site

$12.50 - $15.50/hr

About the Role The Line Locator Technician reports to the Project Manager at Bermex. This position plays a key role in detecting and locating underground utility lines and pipes. This position also ...

TEKsystems c/o Allegis Group

Utility Locator

Ames, IA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Locator * GIS * GPS * Safety * Trenching DESCRIPTION We are seeking a reliable and detail ... Use electromagnetic locating equipment and other technology to identify underground gas, electric ...

TEKsystems

Utility Locator

Ames, IA

$20 - $25/hr

Locator * GIS * GPS * Safety * Trenching DESCRIPTION We are seeking a reliable and detail ... Use electromagnetic locating equipment and other technology to identify underground gas, electric ...

TEKsystems

Utility Locator

Ames, IA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Locator * GIS * GPS * Safety * Trenching DESCRIPTION We are seeking a reliable and detail ... Use electromagnetic locating equipment and other technology to identify underground gas, electric ...

Great Lakes Energy

Facilities Locator

Kalkaska, MI · On-site

Facilities Locator Great Lakes Energy is seeking a Facilities Locator to join our team in the ... Beyond delivering reliable electricity, we are leaders in advanced fiber technology through ...

EX2 Technology LLC

Utility Locator Supervisor

Atlanta, GA · Remote

$70K - $80K/yr

OB TITLE Utility Locator Supervisor COMPANY eX2 Technology LOCATION Field work, 0% remote work, working from home is not an option FSLA STATUS Exempt POSITION SUMMARY eX² Technology is seeking a ...

EX2 Technology LLC

Utility Locator Supervisor

Atlanta, GA · Remote

$70K - $80K/yr

OB TITLE Utility Locator Supervisor COMPANY eX2 Technology LOCATION Field work, 0% remote work, working from home is not an option FSLA STATUS Exempt POSITION SUMMARY eX² Technology is seeking a ...

Great Lakes Energy

Facilities Locator

Kalkaska, MI · On-site

$29.39/hr

Facilities Locator Great Lakes Energy is seeking a Facilities Locator to join our team in the ... Beyond delivering reliable electricity, we are leaders in advanced fiber technology through ...

EX2 Technology LLC

Utility Locator Supervisor

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

OB TITLE Utility Locator Supervisor COMPANY eX2 Technology LOCATION Field work, 0% remote work, working from home is not an option FSLA STATUS Exempt POSITION SUMMARY eX² Technology is seeking a ...

Great Lakes Energy

Facilities Locator

Kalkaska, MI · On-site

$29.39/hr

Beyond delivering reliable electricity, we are leaders in advanced fiber technology through ... A Day in The Life As a Facilities Locator, you play a vital role in ensuring safe and efficient ...

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Locator Tech information

See salary details

$13

$18

$26

How much do locator tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for locator tech in the United States is $18.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a locator tech?

Locator Techs, also known as utility locators or locating technicians, are professionals responsible for identifying and marking the locations of underground utilities such as gas, water, electrical, and telecommunications lines. They use specialized equipment to detect and map these utilities to prevent damage during construction or excavation projects. Locator Techs play a critical role in ensuring public safety and minimizing service disruptions by accurately identifying utility lines before any digging or groundwork begins.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a locator tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Locator Tech, you need a solid understanding of utility mapping, underground detection techniques, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with electromagnetic locating equipment, GPS devices, and digital mapping systems is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you accurately interpret site plans and interact with clients and crews. These skills are essential to prevent utility damage, ensure safety, and support efficient project completion.

What are some common challenges locator techs face in the field, and how can they best prepare for them?

Locator Techs often encounter challenges such as accurately identifying utility lines in varied terrain, working in adverse weather conditions, and managing tight schedules. To handle these effectively, it's important to have a strong understanding of utility maps, be comfortable using specialized equipment, and stay up to date on safety protocols. Good communication skills also help when coordinating with property owners and construction crews. Proactive preparation and adaptability are key to ensuring both accuracy and safety on the job.

What is the difference between Locator Tech vs Survey Technician?

AspectLocator TechSurvey Technician
CredentialsTypically requires basic certifications or training in utility locatingOften requires surveying certifications or technical degrees
Work EnvironmentPrimarily outdoors, locating underground utilitiesOutdoors and indoors, conducting land surveys and measurements
Employer & IndustryUtility companies, construction, infrastructureEngineering firms, construction, land development
Common Search & ComparisonUtility locating, underground utility detectionLand surveying, civil surveying

The main difference is that Locator Techs focus on detecting underground utilities using specialized equipment, often with minimal certifications. Survey Technicians perform land measurements and mapping, usually requiring more formal surveying credentials. Both roles work outdoors and are essential in construction and infrastructure projects, but they serve different purposes within the industry.

How hard is it to be a Locator Tech?

Becoming a Locator Tech typically requires attention to detail, good communication skills, and familiarity with mapping or utility locating tools. The job can involve physical activity and working outdoors or in confined spaces, with some positions requiring certification or training. Overall, it is considered a moderate-level role that demands technical skills and safety awareness.

Is a utility locator a good career?

A utility locator is a skilled technician responsible for identifying underground utilities using tools like ground-penetrating radar and electromagnetic detectors. The job offers steady employment, often requires safety training and certifications, and involves outdoor work in various weather conditions. It can be a stable career for those interested in technical work and infrastructure maintenance.

What states have the most Locator Tech jobs?

States with the most job openings for Locator Tech jobs include:

Locator Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Locator Tech job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 11% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,319 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

HDD locator

VAST Networks

Fresno, CA • On-site

$26 - $36/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) Locator

We are seeking a Drill Locator to join our team in Fresno, CA. In this role you will operate drilling equipment to complete assigned projects and complete drilling in both standard and high-risk areas; with live utilities.
Why VAST Networks?

  • Full Time
  • Paid Weekly
  • Compensation: $25 - $38 per hour, DOE
  • Full Benefits Package (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Paid Time Off
  • 401(k) with Company Match!
  • Independent Work & Team Collaboration
  • Career Development & Advancement Opportunities!

Key Responsibilities:

  • Provide horizontal directional drill head location services for drill operator
  • Operate and interpret electronic locating equipment to guide drill operators along planned bore paths in standard and high-risk areas with live utilities
  • Read and understand telecom utility staking sheets/prints and bore plans
  • Coordinate with utility locators to ensure all utility locates for work are complete
  • Communicate bore depth, alignment, and steering corrections clearly to drill operator
  • Identify and avoid conflicts with underground utilities through potholing, mapping and utility verification
  • Support setup, monitoring and completion of bores and maintain accurate records of bore logs, as-builts and daily progress reporting.
  • Maintain a working knowledge of utility depths and placements
  • Ensure vehicles, equipment and tools are properly maintained, in good repair and secured in a safe manner
  • Review field designs, communicating discrepancies to supervisors
  • Assist with duct, vault, pedestal and fiber placement as needed
  • Assist with minor equipment troubleshooting and maintenance
  • Complete all projects with safety as the #1 priority, ensuring compliance with internal safety standards and 811 safe digging requirements.
  • Other duties as assigned

 

Requirements

 

Education:  High school diploma or equivalent

 

 

 

 

Experience

  • 3+ years of directional drilling experience required
  • Familiarity with Ditch Witch or Vermeer HDD equipment a plus
  • Strong communication and coordination with managers, driller, support crews, and other team members
  • Understanding of drill mechanics, soil types, fluid mixtures and locator technology
  • Ability to travel and work outside of business hours when needed, overtime, etc., in all seasons
  • Excellent customer service, time management, problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
  • High level of energy, motivation and attention to detail
  • Valid driver’s license required; CDL preferred
  • Passing of all pre-employment requirements (MVR, Background Check, Drug Screen)

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to stand, walk, kneel, bend, and lift up to 75 lbs regularly
  • Manual dexterity to operate drilling controls and hand tools
  • Visual acuity for operating and monitoring bore path and tracking systems
  • Tolerance for working around noise, dust, and heavy equipment

Please Note
This is a safety-sensitive position. The employee has responsibility for their own safety and the safety of others. The employee must be able to perform all duties in accordance with safety regulations, company policies, and client requirements. This includes but is not limited to:

  • Following all required safety protocols and procedures
  • Using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Operating vehicles and equipment safely
  • Maintaining valid certifications and licenses as required
  • Participating in mandatory safety training and meetings
  • Reporting unsafe conditions or practices
  • Passing required drug and alcohol screening
  • Maintaining physical capabilities necessary to perform essential job functions safely

Failure to meet these safety requirements may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment.

Company Description

www.vastnetworks.com
Since 1995, Vast Networks offered a full line of state-of-the-art network services designed to help meet the demands of today's sophisticated users and to remain competitive industry leaders in an ever-changing marketplace. Vast Networks has over 2,500 miles of ALL fiber network designed to improve the availability of broadband networking infrastructure for 23 counties within the California.