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Operator Locator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Utility Locator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

UtiliQuest supports utility operators throughout America to prevent damages to their infrastructure ... Locator is $20.00 - $22.00 Why work with us Your career here is more than just a job - it's your ...

HDD Locator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$23.50 - $29/hr

We're hiring our next Locator to track the HDD in real time, guiding it to depth and on path, and ... Operating electronic bore tracking systems to monitor drill head position, depth, pitch, and roll ...

HDD Locator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$23.50 - $29/hr

We're hiring our next Locator to track the HDD in real time, guiding it to depth and on path, and ... Operating electronic bore tracking systems to monitor drill head position, depth, pitch, and roll ...

Takes initiative and is actively engaged in training alongside experience Operators and Foreman learning installations and equipment operations, etc. General understanding and comfortability of ...

Warehouse Associate

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

$14 - $16.75/hr

... locator system. * Checks and verifies accuracy of selecting, packing, weighing, marking, and ... Ensures safety guidelines are met in operating the equipment. * Performs required counting ...

Warehouse Associate

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

$14.50 - $17/hr

... locator system. * Checks and verifies accuracy of selecting, packing, weighing, marking, and ... Ensures safety guidelines are met in operating the equipment. * Performs required counting ...

Warehouse Associate

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

$14.50 - $17/hr

... locator system. * Checks and verifies accuracy of selecting, packing, weighing, marking, and ... Ensures safety guidelines are met in operating the equipment. * Performs required counting ...

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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.

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Operator Locator jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Operator Locator job openings:

Utility Locator

Nashville, TN • On-site

Dycom Industries, Inc.
Construction • 10K+ employees

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Dycom Industries rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Bellevue, TN | Columbia, TN | Fairview, TN | Franklin, TN | Spring Hill, TN
Workplace Type: Field
Employment Type: Hourly
Discover a more connected career
At UtiliQuest, as a Utility Locator, you'll learn safety rules and techniques to find underground utility lines. You'll work with experienced utility locators, use special tools, and record findings to ensure construction projects are safe and efficient.
UtiliQuest supports utility operators throughout America to prevent damages to their infrastructure. Reliably completing millions of locate requests each year assisting project owners and managers in achieving safer excavations and reducing damages to the underground infrastructure. We utilize modern technologies and skilled professionals to deliver timely, reliable, and accurate locate services to protect utility operators' infrastructure throughout America. We are committed to conducting business with the highest standards of integrity and ethics, and with abiding respect for corporate citizenship and sustainability.
Connecting you to great benefits
  • Paid Training Program
  • Weekly Paychecks
  • Company "take home" Vehicle and fuel card
  • Work boot voucher (Red Wing)
  • Paid Time Off, Parental Leave, and Holidays
  • Insurance (including medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, disability, life insurance)
  • 401(k) w/ Company Match
  • Stock Purchase Plan
  • Education Reimbursement
  • Legal Insurance
  • Discounts on gym memberships, pet insurance, and much more through Perk Spot!

What you'll do
    • Learn utility locating techniques, safety protocols and how to operate equipment
    • Develop an understanding of local utility infrastructure and regulations
    • Partner with experienced Utility Locators to mark underground utility lines
    • Operate utility locating equipment
    • Document findings using digital mapping tools
    • Perform work in all weather conditions
    • Operate company vehicle in a safe manner
    • Work overtime, travel, and perform on-call/afterhours responsibilities as needed
    • Participate in classroom and field training sessions
    • Completes and maintains all training
    • Drive safely and follow company safe driving policies
    • Maintain punctuality and attendance at all shifts and training sessions
    • Be able to perform manhole entry using assigned equipment and safety devices
    • Perform work in all weather conditions, during normal and after hours
    • Regular use of hands and fingers to operate specialized equipment and tools
    • Reaching overhead above the shoulders and horizontally; bending at the waist; standing and or walking for extended periods of time
    • Ability to carry 3-5 lbs electronic utility locating equipment for extended periods of time; lifting objects up to 50 pounds or lifting in excess of 50 lbs with tool aids
    • Hearing and speaking to exchange information
    • The employee shall follow all safety rules at all times
    • Will need to have the ability to work a flexible schedule (some evenings and weekends) as ticket/production load requires
    • Employee will respond to emergency calls during scheduled on-call shift rotation

What you'll need
  • To be 18 years of age or older
  • Authorization to work in the United States for this company
  • High School Diploma, GED equivalent, or relevant work experience
  • Valid State driver's license (cannot be Provisional), including an acceptable MVR record

Physical abilities & exposures
  • Routinely: work alone in remote locations with arms above shoulder level, operate vehicle, squeeze, fine hand motion, bend, stoop, stand, walk, lift up to 55 pounds, use keyboard and mouse
  • Occasionally: use portable ladder, work in confined spaces and climb stairs

The wage range for Utility Locator is $20.00 - $22.00
Why work with us
Your career here is more than just a job - it's your pathway to opportunity. Our hands-on training, supportive environment, and responsive leadership connect you to work with purpose. Our commitment to you extends beyond professional development to a safety-first culture that ensures you can do what you do best, with peace of mind.
Building stronger solutions together
Our company is an equal-opportunity employer - we are committed to providing a work environment where everyone can thrive, grow, and feel connected.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
Req Id:

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