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Operator Locator Jobs in Nevada (NOW HIRING)

Lighthouse Technologies USA LLC

HDD Locator

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Job Summary The HDD Locator is responsible for locating, marking, and monitoring underground ... Use locating equipment such as DCI and Subsite. * Assist HDD operators by tracking bore path ...

Sorensen Companies (SCI)

Bore Locator

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$21.54 - $26.92/hr

You will coordinate with drill operators and field crews to maintain proper bore paths and deliver underground utility installations. As the Bore Locator I / II, your customers are broadband ...

TrueNet Communications

Directional Drill Locator

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

The Directional Drill Locator is responsible for directional drill locating, reading prints and ... Confirm bore path with install foreman/management and drill operator (including walking the bore ...

TrueNet Communications

Directional Drill Locator

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

The Directional Drill Locator is responsible for directional drill locating, reading prints and ... Confirm bore path with install foreman/management and drill operator (including walking the bore ...

All JobsOperator Locator JobsOperator Locator Jobs in Nevada

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.

What cities in Nevada are hiring for Operator Locator jobs?

Cities in Nevada with the most Operator Locator job openings:

Operator Locator jobs near you

Directional Drill Operator / Locator - CDL Required

Henderson, NV • On-site

M&J ENTERPRISES CONSTRUCTION INC
See more jobs at M&J ENTERPRISES CONSTRUCTION INCexternal

$30 - $40/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Directional Drill Operator / Locator – CDL Required

M&J Enterprises Construction, Inc. is seeking an experienced Directional Drill Operator / Locator to join our underground construction team.

We are looking for a dependable, safety-focused individual with hands-on experience operating Vermeer horizontal directional drilling (HDD) equipment. Candidates should have experience as a drill operator, locator, or both and must possess a valid CDL.

Responsibilities
  • Operate Vermeer directional bore/drill machines
  • Perform horizontal directional drilling for underground fiber, telecommunications, and utility installations
  • Locate and guide drill heads accurately during boring operations
  • Read and understand utility markings, bore paths, prints, and construction plans
  • Perform potholing/daylighting and verify existing utilities before drilling
  • Complete pilot bores, reaming, and product pullback
  • Set up and operate HDD equipment safely and efficiently
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and basic maintenance
  • Load, secure, haul, and transport equipment as required
  • Maintain safe work zones and follow all company and OSHA safety requirements
  • Work closely with foremen, laborers, and other crew members
  • Protect existing underground utilities and surrounding property
  • Complete required job and equipment documentation
Requirements
  • Valid CDL required
  • Previous Vermeer bore machine experience required
  • Experience operating an HDD drill and/or locating
  • Knowledge of underground utility construction
  • Ability to read utility markings and understand bore profiles
  • Knowledge of safe digging and utility damage-prevention practices
  • Ability to troubleshoot basic drilling and locating issues in the field
  • Must be dependable and able to work as part of a crew
  • Must be able to work outdoors in varying weather and jobsite conditions
  • Must meet company driving and safety requirements
  • Travel and overtime may be required depending on project needs
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience performing both drilling and locating
  • Fiber/telecommunications construction experience
  • Experience with multiple sizes/models of Vermeer HDD equipment
  • Experience pulling conduit and fiber infrastructure
  • OSHA and other construction safety certifications are a plus
What We're Looking For

We need an experienced operator—not someone who is learning to run a bore machine. The right candidate should be comfortable operating Vermeer equipment, understand the complete boring process, and be able to work safely around existing utilities.

Position: Full-Time
Company: M&J Enterprises Construction, Inc.
Experience: HDD / Vermeer experience required
License: CDL required

Competitive pay based on experience.