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Locator Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mastec, Inc.

GPR Utility Locator Field

Davie, FL · On-site

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

The Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) Utility Locator is responsible for locating and mapping underground utilities using ground penetrating radar technology. Your expertise will contribute to the safe ...

Tel Tech Networks

Utility Locator

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Tel Tech Networks is seeking a skilled Utility Locator with 3-5 years of hands-on experience to accurately identify, mark, and document underground utilities in compliance with local, state, and ...

Go McPherson

Utility Line Locator

Mcpherson, KS

$14.50 - $18/hr

Experienced Full-Time Utility Line Locator Job Summary We are seeking a reliable, detail-oriented ... Use the provided equipment & technology to accurately locate underground utilities. * Communicate ...

Wire3

Utility Locator 2

Fort Pierce, FL · On-site

$14.50 - $18/hr

With cutting-edge fiber optic technology at its core, Wire 3 ensures ultra-fast, reliable ... JOB OVERVIEW: The Utility Locator 2 is an experienced field-level role responsible for ...

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How much do locator tech jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 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 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 are Locator Techs?

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 does a locator technician do?

A locator technician is responsible for identifying and marking underground utilities such as gas, water, and electrical lines to prevent damage during construction or excavation. They use specialized tools like ground-penetrating radar and electromagnetic detectors, often following safety protocols and industry standards. The role typically requires knowledge of utility maps, attention to detail, and sometimes certification in utility locating methods.

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.

More about Locator Tech jobs
What states have the most Locator Tech jobs? States with the most job openings for Locator Tech jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Locator Tech jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Locator Tech jobs are:
Locator Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Locator Tech job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $38,319 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Utility Locator Tech

City of St Joseph, Missouri

Saint Joseph, MO • On-site

$20.34/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Position Title: Utility Locator Technician
Department: Public Works & Transportation
Division: Sewer Maintenance
Salary: $42,301.00yr/$20.337019hr
Closing Date: Until Filled
Job Summary/ Scope
Operates equipment used in the maintenance and repair of the City's sanitary & combined sewer system. Although this position primarily operates the vacuum sewer cleaners and excavator's, it may also include dump trucks, high loaders, skid steer loaders, backhoes, bucket trucks and snow removal equipment. Makes repairs to gravity sewer mains, gravity sewer manholes, catch basins; installs/replaces ADA ramps in conjunction with catch basin repair, cleans gravity sewer system using vac trucks and jet rodders, inspects sewers and manholes using a CCTV system, and tests sewers for leaks using smoke and/or dye testing tools. Responds to snow and ice storms and other severe weather events. Some basic data entry for asset management purposes. Assists Utility Locater in performing prompt and accurate locating of City-owned utilities, including Gravity Sewer Mains, Force Mains, and Traffic Signal Loops and associated wiring. Keeps accurate and up-to-date records. Must be abreast of current industry standards, guidelines, procedures and policies. Limited supervisory responsibilities. No budgetary responsibilities.
Supervisory Responsibility
Integral to the position of Equipment Operator III is the responsibility for developing subordinates to their fullest potential by exercising appropriate degrees of coaching, training, guiding, evaluating, correcting and, if necessary, disciplining.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Operates and maintains equipment including but not limited to dump truck, backhoe, high loader, bucket truck, vacuum sewer cleaner, jet rod truck, chain saw, and miscellaneous power tools.
  • Transports tools and equipment to and from jobs.
  • Shovels gravel, dirt, debris, and performs general labor tasks.
  • Constructs concrete forms and assists with concrete finish work.
  • Spreads salt and plows snow in winter.
  • Cuts weeds and brush around sewer inlets.
  • Removes mud and trash from sewer inlets.
  • Required to be on call and/or carry a pager and respond to emergencies as needed.
  • Hauls dirt, rock and other material.
  • Operates jack hammer.
  • Sets up barricades.
  • Locates utility lines as needed.
  • Maintains regular and reliable attendance.
  • Train new employees on safe and efficient operation of vehicles, machinery, and equipment.
  • Receives locate requests from Missouri One Call
  • Locates City-owned facilities in the field using the City's GIS system, as-built drawings and electronic pipe/cable locating equipment.
  • Prepares various reports detailing locating activities.
  • Completes all necessary forms, reports, and procedures utilizing Missouri One Call's ticket management system 'Ticket Check'.
  • Advises various division supervisors concerning discrepancies in the City's utility data (City's GIS system, as-built drawings, etc.).
  • Responds to after-hour emergency locate requests.
  • Responds to or facilitates meet requests made by excavators.
  • Rotates holidays, evenings, Saturdays and Sundays with Utility Locator Tech for emergency locate calls.
  • Inspects Creek Crossing, Elevated Crossings, manholes and other sewer-related structures when not assisting Utility Locator.
  • Acts as crew leader as needed.

Other Duties and Responsibilities
Performs all other related duties as assigned.
Employee Behavior and Conduct
City employees shall conduct themselves in a professional manner and shall exhibit and extend such professional conduct appropriate for circumstances to those with whom they come into contact both internally and externally during the performance of their duties. Examples of professional conduct include, but are not limited to, being communicative, informative, fair, honest, and respectful.
Required (Essential) Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities
  • Skills in the safe and efficient operation of equipment and machinery used in the construction and maintenance of sewer facilities.
  • Knowledge of carpentry and concrete work required.
  • Knowledge of general sewer maintenance and repair procedures required.
  • Knowledge of proper shoring techniques required.
  • Ability to give and follow instructions.
  • Must obtain valid Class A CDL with Tanker endorsement within 90 days of employment.
  • Knowledge of proper barricading & traffic control procedures required.
  • Required to be on-call and/or carry a pager and respond to emergencies as needed.
  • Required to pass NIMS 100 & 700 testing within 90 days of employment.
  • Knowledge of how to properly secure loads on trucks and trailers required.
  • Ability to safely access various utility appurtenances such as electrical vaults, valve boxes, and both waste- and storm- water manholes and structures.
  • Knowledge of basic markings, symbols, and colors used when locating underground facilities.
  • Knowledge of Missouri One Call procedures and policies.
  • Knowledge of the City's utility infrastructure.
  • Knowledge of the City's street name and address system.
  • Knowledge of MUTCD Traffic Control standards and procedures.
  • Knowledge of confined space entry procedures and regulations.
  • Skills in Microsoft Office and knowledge of asset management software required.

Materials and Equipment Directly Used
Operates a variety of equipment, including but not limited to dump trucks, snowplows, jack hammers, back hoes, high loaders, chain saws and other tools directly related to the maintenance of sewers. There may be times when use of personal vehicle may be required.
Working Environment/Physical Requirements
Work is performed under a variety of conditions ranging from confined spaces, large excavations, sewer odors, sanitary sewerage, vermin, extreme cold, heat, wind and wet. Must be able to stand for long periods and operate equipment with dexterity. Must have the ability to routinely lift objects weighing up to 30 pounds, occasionally lift objects weighing as much as 80 pounds or assist in lifting objects weighing in excess of 100 pounds and pulling loads up to 300 pounds. Must be able to regularly pull a charged sewer cleaning hose up to 50' and occasionally several hundred feet across fences and through various types of terrain. Must have the ability to regularly assemble, install & disconnect 5 to 6 sections of vacuum tubing weighing up to 120 pounds. Work involves occasional to frequent climbing, bending, squatting and reaching.
Some overnight or day travel may be required for business purposes. Vacation and other leave scheduling shall be requested of and approved by the appropriate supervisor.
Education
High school diploma or equivalent or must be able to obtain within 6 months of employment. One to three years of experience in related field required.
All applicants must pass a drug screening and criminal background check prior to employment.
Any job offer made by the City is contingent upon the applicant passing the drug screening and background check.
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
The City is a governmental entity subject to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973,
which requires that otherwise qualified handicapped individuals be protected from discrimination.

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