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Per Diem Utility Locator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Utility Locator

Dallas, TX · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Contract-to-Hire Pay: $20.00 - $22.00 per hour The OSP Utility Locator is responsible for identifying, marking, and documenting underground utilities prior to excavation, boring, or construction ...

Utility Locator

Middletown, OH · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Maintain company equipment per service requirements and safety guidelines * Any other duties and ... As the Utility Locator usually works alone, an employee in this class is expected to exercise ...

Utility Locator

Dayton, OH · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Maintain company equipment per service requirements and safety guidelines * Any other duties and ... As the Utility Locator usually works alone, an employee in this class is expected to exercise ...

Utility Locator

Middletown, OH · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Maintain company equipment per service requirements and safety guidelines * Any other duties and ... As the Utility Locator usually works alone, an employee in this class is expected to exercise ...

Utility Locator

Middletown, OH · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Maintain company equipment per service requirements and safety guidelines * Any other duties and ... As the Utility Locator usually works alone, an employee in this class is expected to exercise ...

Utility Locator

Dayton, OH · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Maintain company equipment per service requirements and safety guidelines * Any other duties and ... As the Utility Locator usually works alone, an employee in this class is expected to exercise ...

Utility Locator

Dayton, OH · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Maintain company equipment per service requirements and safety guidelines * Any other duties and ... As the Utility Locator usually works alone, an employee in this class is expected to exercise ...

Utility Locator

Dayton, OH · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Maintain company equipment per service requirements and safety guidelines * Any other duties and ... As the Utility Locator usually works alone, an employee in this class is expected to exercise ...

Utility Locator

Middletown, OH · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Maintain company equipment per service requirements and safety guidelines * Any other duties and ... As the Utility Locator usually works alone, an employee in this class is expected to exercise ...

Utility Locator

Dayton, OH · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Maintain company equipment per service requirements and safety guidelines * Any other duties and ... As the Utility Locator usually works alone, an employee in this class is expected to exercise ...

Utility Locator

Dayton, OH · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Maintain company equipment per service requirements and safety guidelines * Any other duties and ... As the Utility Locator usually works alone, an employee in this class is expected to exercise ...

Utility Locator

Middletown, OH · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Maintain company equipment per service requirements and safety guidelines * Any other duties and ... As the Utility Locator usually works alone, an employee in this class is expected to exercise ...

Utility Locator

Middletown, OH · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Maintain company equipment per service requirements and safety guidelines * Any other duties and ... As the Utility Locator usually works alone, an employee in this class is expected to exercise ...

Utility Locator

Middletown, OH · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Maintain company equipment per service requirements and safety guidelines * Any other duties and ... As the Utility Locator usually works alone, an employee in this class is expected to exercise ...

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Per Diem Utility Locator information

See salary details

$13

$18

$26

How much do per diem utility locator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for per diem utility locator 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 per diem utility locator?

A Per Diem Utility Locator is a professional who is hired on a daily or as-needed basis to identify and mark the location of underground utilities such as water, gas, electric, and telecommunication lines. They use specialized equipment and maps to ensure that construction or excavation projects do not damage these utilities, helping to prevent service interruptions and safety hazards. The 'per diem' aspect means they are typically paid by the day rather than receiving a salary or hourly wage, making this a flexible role suited to project-based or short-term work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a per diem utility locator?

To thrive as a Per Diem Utility Locator, you need knowledge of utility mapping, the ability to read blueprints, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with electromagnetic locating equipment, GPS devices, and utility marking systems is typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These skills are crucial for accurately identifying underground utilities, ensuring safety, and preventing service interruptions during excavation projects.

What are some common challenges faced by per diem utility locators, and how can they be addressed?

Per Diem Utility Locators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, interpreting outdated or incomplete utility maps, and ensuring accurate markings to prevent damage during excavation. To address these issues, it's important to remain vigilant about safety protocols, maintain clear communication with contractors and utility companies, and utilize advanced locating equipment when possible. Building strong observational skills and staying updated on best practices can help you adapt to different field environments and improve efficiency.

What is the difference between Per Diem Utility Locator vs Per Diem Construction Worker?

AspectPer Diem Utility LocatorPer Diem Construction Worker
CredentialsTypically requires utility locating certifications and safety trainingMay require general construction safety certifications, but less specialized
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, utility lines detection, often in urban or rural areasConstruction sites, outdoor environments, various weather conditions
Employer & IndustryUtility companies, construction contractors, infrastructure projectsConstruction firms, general contractors, infrastructure development
Search & Comparison IntentYes, often compared for field roles in utility detectionCommonly compared for general construction roles

The main difference between a Per Diem Utility Locator and a Per Diem Construction Worker lies in their specialized skills and work environments. Utility locators focus on detecting underground utility lines, requiring specific certifications, while construction workers perform broader manual labor tasks on construction sites. Both roles are essential in infrastructure projects but serve different functions within the industry.

Is a Per Diem Utility Locator a good career?

A Per Diem Utility Locator is a job that involves identifying underground utility lines to prevent damage during construction or excavation. It typically requires knowledge of mapping tools, safety protocols, and sometimes certification, with flexible or on-call schedules. The career can offer steady work, especially in infrastructure or construction industries, but may lack long-term stability without additional benefits or full-time employment.
More about Per Diem Utility Locator jobs

What cities are hiring for Per Diem Utility Locator jobs?

Cities with the most Per Diem Utility Locator job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Utility Locator jobs?

The most popular types of Utility Locator jobs are:

What states have the most Per Diem Utility Locator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Per Diem Utility Locator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Per Diem Utility Locator jobs?

For Per Diem Utility Locator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Per Diem Utility Locator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,319 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Utility Locator

Dallas, TX • On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 11 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Locate underground utilities including fiber, copper, coax, electric, gas, water, and sewer lines using electronic locating equipment

  • Interpret utility maps, prints, as-builts, and GIS records to determine facility locations

  • Mark underground utilities in accordance with APWA color codes and local jurisdiction standards


Job description

Contract-to-Hire


Pay: $20.00 - $22.00 per hour

Job description:


The OSP Utility Locator is responsible for identifying, marking, and documenting underground utilities prior to excavation, boring, or construction activities. This role plays a critical part in damage prevention, public safety, and project continuity by ensuring underground assets are accurately located and clearly communicated to construction teams.


Key Responsibilities

  • Locate underground utilities including fiber, copper, coax, electric, gas, water, and sewer lines using electronic locating equipment
  • Interpret utility maps, prints, as-builts, and GIS records to determine facility locations
  • Mark underground utilities in accordance with APWA color codes and local jurisdiction standards
  • Respond to 811 locate requests and meet required SLAs
  • Document all locates with photographs, GPS data, sketches, and written reports
  • Communicate findings, conflicts, and risks to foremen, construction crews, and project managers
  • Perform re-locates as required due to scope changes, weather impact, or time expiration
  • Maintain and calibrate locating equipment
  • Follow all safety policies, damage prevention procedures, and regulatory requirements
  • Represent the company professionally with municipalities, property owners, and utility providers

Required Qualifications

  • Prior experience as a Utility Locator, Damage Prevention Technician, or similar role
  • Proficiency using electronic locating equipment
  • Ability to read maps, prints, and utility documentation
  • Strong attention to detail and documentation accuracy
  • Ability to work independently in field environments
  • Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
  • Willingness to work overtime, on-call rotations, nights, or weekends as required

Preferred Qualifications

  • Formal utility locator training or certification
  • Experience responding to 811 tickets
  • Familiarity with APWA color codes
  • GIS or GPS documentation experience
  • OSHA 10 certification
  • Telecom, fiber, or utility construction background

Work Environment

  • Outdoor fieldwork across residential, commercial, and municipal areas
  • Independent work with minimal direct supervision
  • High accountability and risk-sensitive role

Performance Expectations

  • Accurate and timely completion of locates
  • Zero-damage mindset and adherence to damage prevention best practices
  • Clear communication with construction teams and stakeholders
  • Proper documentation and reporting on every locate

Broadstaff, LLC., provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected classification protected by federal, state or local laws.


Company Description

Broadstaff, LLC., provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected classification protected by federal, state or local laws.