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Operator Locator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

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Operator Locator information

What is an operator locator?

Operator Locators are professionals responsible for identifying and marking the location of underground utilities, such as gas, water, electrical, and telecommunications lines, before excavation or construction projects begin. Their main goal is to prevent accidental damage to these utilities, which can cause service disruptions, safety hazards, and costly repairs. Operator Locators use specialized equipment like electromagnetic devices and ground-penetrating radar to detect and map out the exact locations of buried infrastructure. Their work ensures compliance with safety regulations and helps protect both workers and the public.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an operator locator?

To thrive as an Operator Locator, you need a solid understanding of underground utility systems, map reading, and basic surveying, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with electromagnetic locating equipment, GPS devices, and utility mapping software is commonly required, and some positions may require industry-specific certifications like NULCA or OSHA safety training. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate utility detection, enhance site safety, and prevent costly service interruptions or damages.

What are the most common challenges operator locators face in the field, and how can they overcome them?

Operator Locators often encounter challenges such as difficult terrain, inaccurate utility maps, and adverse weather conditions that can complicate locating underground utilities. To overcome these obstacles, it's important to stay up-to-date with the latest locating equipment, follow safety protocols diligently, and maintain clear communication with utility companies and site supervisors. Building strong problem-solving skills and collaborating closely with other team members can also help address unexpected situations and ensure accurate, safe work.

What is the difference between Operator Locator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectOperator LocatorEquipment Operator
CertificationsTypically requires GPS, mapping, or navigation system trainingRequires equipment-specific certifications (e.g., forklift, crane)
Work EnvironmentPrimarily office-based, using software to locate equipmentOn-site, operating machinery or equipment
Industry UsageUsed across logistics, transportation, and construction for trackingCommon in construction, manufacturing, and warehousing
Search & Comparison IntentPeople compare for location tracking rolesPeople compare for machinery operation roles

Operator Locator focuses on tracking and managing equipment locations using software, while Equipment Operator involves physically operating machinery. Both roles are essential in logistics and construction, but they differ in skills, environment, and certifications.

Directional Drill Operator/Locator - MN/WI Travel

Hugo, MN • On-site

MasTec Communications Group
Construction • 10K+ employees

$29 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


MasTec rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 156 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 80 rated construction


Job description

Overview

At MasTec Communications Group we build for the future. Yours and ours.  

As a Directional Drill Operator/Locator, you will develop new skills, work in a safety-minded environment, and join us in expanding technology for a better community. Join the MasTec family and help us provide the highest level of quality service to our customers and communities while maintaining our commitment to safety!


Responsibilities

As a Directional Drill Operator/Locator, you are responsible for operating horizontal/directional drill rigs, locating equipment, and product support equipment. You believe in doing the job right. Being the best. And you’re up for the challenge.  

In addition, you will: 

  • Operate Horizontal Directional Drill for installation of underground telecommunications cable conduit, including fiber optic cable
  • Ensure the safety of the public and other utilities' underground facilities 
  • Perform all duties according to prescribed safety procedures and use appropriate safety equipment 
  • Set up and clean up work sites, including traffic and pedestrian control
  • Read utility locates and coordinate the day lighting of these facilities
  • Ensure all applicable permits and locates are complete and on-site
  • Inspect the work that is in progress to ensure that the workmanship conforms to specifications
  • Operate construction equipment to facilitate alignment, movement, and adjustment of machinery to conform to grade specifications
  • Level earth to final grade specifications
  • Operate vehicles and equipment operations from trucks to other equipment as directed and certified
  • Perform proper maintenance by greasing, oiling, and making minor repairs on equipment
  • Lead teams in the field effectively as needed and directed by the supervisor 

Qualifications

About You: 

  • Safety is a part of your day-to-day 
  • You have a track record of completing work with a high level of quality 
  • You have a knack for figuring out hard problems and enjoy a hands-on approach to your work 
  • You are looking for long-term projects 
  • You enjoy getting your hands dirty with your team 
  • You have 3 years of Horizontal Directional Drill experience
  • You have a valid driver’s license
  • You have a CDL, or are willing and able to get a CDL within 90 days
  • Experienced with different-sized Vermeer or Ditch Witch units and various brands of locating equipment
  • Working experience in underground construction and Fiber builds
  • You have knowledge of City, County, and State clearance codes and related
  • You can read and understand maps, drawings, and diagrams for the project build process
  • You are willing to work outdoors in all types of weather and work overtime as required
  • You have 3+ years of HDD experience, with 1+ year in a lead or supervisory role
  • Open to travel M-F per diem (up to 50% within MN/WI and 50+ hours per week, depending on the weather)

Compensation of $29-$35 per hour, depending on licenses and the experience.

Hard work pays off. See what you’ll get for your effort: 

Financial Security 

  • 401(k) with company match 
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) 
  • Life insurance 
  • Short-term and Long-term disability 

Health and Wellness 

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance 
  • Dependent care and medical flexible spending accounts
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) 

Work/Life Balance 

  • Paid time off 
  • Paid holidays 
  • Family and medical leave 
  • Paid sick time

We meet your commitment with competitive pay and benefits. If this sounds like you, let’s talk. Build your career with MasTec! 

MasTec, Inc. is an equal employment opportunity employer. The Company's policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military status, or any other consideration made unlawful by applicable federal, state, or local laws. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants and employees based on any of these protected categories. It is also MasTec's policy to comply with all applicable state, federal and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions.

#MasTecJobs #MasTecCareers #BeSuccessfulWithUs #IAmMasTec #WeAreMasTec #MasTecFamily #MasTecCommunicationsGroup #MasTecCommunicationsCareers #HotJobs

Qualifications:

About You: 

  • Safety is a part of your day-to-day 
  • You have a track record of completing work with a high level of quality 
  • You have a knack for figuring out hard problems and enjoy a hands-on approach to your work 
  • You are looking for long-term projects 
  • You enjoy getting your hands dirty with your team 
  • You have 3 years of Horizontal Directional Drill experience
  • You have a valid driver’s license
  • You have a CDL, or are willing and able to get a CDL within 90 days
  • Experienced with different-sized Vermeer or Ditch Witch units and various brands of locating equipment
  • Working experience in underground construction and Fiber builds
  • You have knowledge of City, County, and State clearance codes and related
  • You can read and understand maps, drawings, and diagrams for the project build process
  • You are willing to work outdoors in all types of weather and work overtime as required
  • You have 3+ years of HDD experience, with 1+ year in a lead or supervisory role
  • Open to travel M-F per diem (up to 50% within MN/WI and 50+ hours per week, depending on the weather)

Compensation of $29-$35 per hour, depending on licenses and the experience.

Hard work pays off. See what you’ll get for your effort: 

Financial Security 

  • 401(k) with company match 
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) 
  • Life insurance 
  • Short-term and Long-term disability 

Health and Wellness 

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance 
  • Dependent care and medical flexible spending accounts
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) 

Work/Life Balance 

  • Paid time off 
  • Paid holidays 
  • Family and medical leave 
  • Paid sick time

We meet your commitment with competitive pay and benefits. If this sounds like you, let’s talk. Build your career with MasTec! 

MasTec, Inc. is an equal employment opportunity employer. The Company's policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military status, or any other consideration made unlawful by applicable federal, state, or local laws. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants and employees based on any of these protected categories. It is also MasTec's policy to comply with all applicable state, federal and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions.

#MasTecJobs #MasTecCareers #BeSuccessfulWithUs #IAmMasTec #WeAreMasTec #MasTecFamily #MasTecCommunicationsGroup #MasTecCommunicationsCareers #HotJobs

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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