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Underground Cable Locator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cable Locator

Brevard, NC

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

SUMMARY Self motivated Individual able to manage locate caseload of underground cable locate requests received through PUPS and other electronic providers, accurately locating all buried facilities ...

Cable Locator

Brevard, NC · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

SUMMARY Self motivated Individual able to manage locate caseload of underground cable locate requests received through PUPS and other electronic providers, accurately locating all buried facilities ...

Seasonal Locator - Fargo, ND

West Fargo, ND · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Midco is hiring a Seasonal Locator . This is your opportunity to kick start your career, learn ... Support efforts to identify and clearly mark existing underground cable as directed. * Possess ...

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Underground Cable Locator information

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$13

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$26

How much do underground cable locator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground cable 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 are some common challenges faced by Underground Cable Locators on the job, and how can they be addressed?

Underground Cable Locators often encounter challenges such as inaccurate utility maps, difficult terrain, or adverse weather conditions. Misidentified utility lines can pose safety risks and cause project delays. To address these challenges, locators rely on advanced detection equipment, thorough site assessments, and clear communication with construction teams and utility companies. Regular training and adherence to safety protocols are essential for accurately marking utilities and ensuring a safe work environment.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Underground cable locators typically earn between $20 and $30 per hour, which can amount to around $800 to $1,200 weekly, below $4,000. High-paying jobs that can reach $4,000 a week without a degree include commercial truck drivers, sales managers, real estate brokers, and certain skilled trades like electricians or HVAC technicians with experience. These roles often require specialized skills, certifications, or licenses but not necessarily a college degree.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Underground Cable Locator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Underground Cable Locator, you need a solid understanding of utility maps, electrical systems, and field safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with electromagnetic locating equipment, GPS devices, and specialized software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for this role. These abilities are essential to accurately identify underground utilities, prevent costly damages, and ensure workplace safety.

What does an underground cable locator do?

An underground cable locator is responsible for detecting and marking the location of underground utilities, such as electrical cables, fiber optic lines, and pipes, to prevent accidental damage during excavation or construction projects. They use specialized equipment to identify the position and depth of these utilities and communicate their findings to construction crews or clients. This role is essential for ensuring safety, minimizing service interruptions, and complying with legal requirements before any digging occurs.

Is utility line locator a hard job?

Underground cable locators, or utility line locators, often find the job physically demanding due to outdoor work, exposure to weather, and the need for precise detection of underground utilities. The role requires technical skills, knowledge of locating tools like ground-penetrating radar and electromagnetic detectors, and sometimes certification, but it can be manageable with proper training and experience.

What does USIC pay per hour?

Underground Cable Locators working for USIC typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and certifications. The role often involves operating specialized detection equipment and working outdoors in various environments.

How to become an underground utility locator?

To become an underground cable locator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with training in underground utility detection methods. Many employers prefer candidates with experience using locating tools such as ground-penetrating radar or electromagnetic detectors, and some roles require certification or licensing depending on local regulations.

What is the difference between Underground Cable Locator vs Utility Locator?

AspectUnderground Cable LocatorUtility Locator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, industry-specific certificationsOSHA safety training, industry-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, utility corridors, urban and rural areasConstruction sites, utility corridors, urban and rural areas
Job FocusLocating underground cables and wiringLocating various underground utilities including cables, pipes, and conduits
Industry UsageConstruction, telecommunications, electricalConstruction, municipal services, telecommunications

While both roles involve locating underground utilities, an Underground Cable Locator primarily focuses on identifying underground electrical cables and wiring. A Utility Locator has a broader scope, including locating various underground utilities such as pipes and conduits. Both roles require similar certifications and work environments, but their specific focus differs based on the utility type.

More about Underground Cable Locator jobs
What cities are hiring for Underground Cable Locator jobs? Cities with the most Underground Cable Locator job openings:
What states have the most Underground Cable Locator jobs? States with the most job openings for Underground Cable Locator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Underground Cable Locator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,319 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Comporium rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 96 rated telecommunications companies


Job description

Comporium is a diversified communications company providing a Quintuple Play of five services -- voice, video, data, wireless and security -- at the retail level; as well as, providing security monitoring andmedia services for its industry customers. Under this concept, the Comporium Group is uniquely positioned to offer customers a one-stop-shopping for all their communications needs.

SUMMARY
Self motivated Individual able to manage locate caseload of underground cable locate requests received through PUPS and other electronic providers, accurately locating all buried facilities with a 3 day window from the date of the request In addition, all emergency locates must be completed upon request with an immediate response. Strong team mindset. Assist Supervisor with any assignments to protect our buried network.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Accurately locate underground facilities - telephone, coax, and fiber - utilizing a laptop, mapping software, cable records, smart phones, cable locators, etc. Must provide photos and videos of all locate marks for each locate ticket completed.

  • Manage the electronic database into which locate requests are received, prioritizing and completing all locates within the 3 day deadline and closing them out.

  • Communicate/interact with excavation contractors to fully understand the parameters of excavation scope and timeline to minimize damage to underground facilities.

  • Work with other utility companies and construction companies on a daily basis.

  • Through expert knowledge and superior preventative maintenance activities, maintain all equipment to minimize downtime and extend the serviceable life of all equipment.

  • Perform spot digging to ensure accuracy of questionable locates.

  • Assist as needed during damage investigation and restitution recovery efforts.

REQUIREMENTS

  • High School or equivalent required

  • Related work experience or knowledge of the industry desired but not necessary.

  • Basic computer skills, strong work ethic, attention to detail, interpersonal skills

  • Must possess valid driver's license. Complete the Comporium technical training locating module and the SC 811 Academy online course within 6 months.

  • Must be able to lift up to 75 lbs., climb, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, work outdoors, work in confined spaces

  • Subject to after hours and emergency locate call outs and scheduled duty rotation.

We firmly believe that our company is only as good as the people we employ. Join a company that values its employees and rewards them for a job well done!

Equal Opportunity Employer/Contractor


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