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Underground Cable Locator information

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$13

$18

$26

How much do underground cable locator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 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 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.

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:
What job categories do people searching Underground Cable Locator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Underground Cable Locator jobs are:
Underground Cable Locator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Underground Cable Locator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,319 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Underground Utility Locator

Vannguard Utility Partners

Starbuck, MN

$21 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Vannguard Utility Partners rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description


Vannguard Utility Partners Inc. is currently seeking Underground Utility Locators in your area.

Salary: $21.00 - $25.00 per hour

We are recruiting for a Training Class!

Vannguard is currently seeking new team members with the right attitude. Our Underground Utility Locators are responsible, self-motivated individuals who enjoy working outdoors and have great computer skills. We are committed to training the right individual who is committed to safety, comfortable working on their own, pays close attention to detail, and takes pride in completing a job well done.
Problem-solvers who know that quality is their priority should consider a career as an Underground Utility Locator.
Our Underground Utility Locators use specialized equipment to find underground cables, pipes and other underground utilities to prevent damages and ensure safety during excavation.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
• Drives to sites in response to routine ticket requests, emergencies, and relocates.
• Utilizes the provided mapping tools and other location information, along with locating equipment, to locate underground utilities including, but not limited to:
- electrical cables
- gas lines
• Indicates utility locations through the utilization of paint, flags, and communicates other relevant information to excavation personnel or other appropriate authorities.
• Cleans and maintains vehicle and all issued equipment.
• Responds to after-hours emergency call-outs in accordance with the established rotation schedule.

Benefits Include:
• Paid Training
• Competitive Wages
• Dental, Health and Life Insurance
• 401(k)
• Flexible scheduling
• Paid vacation
• Work Vehicle

Required Knowledge, Skills and Attitude:
• High school diploma or general education degree (GED).
• Computer Skills
• Valid driver's license in applicable state of employment.
• Must be able to work overtime when duties cannot be performed within a normal work schedule.
• Will be subject to Vannguard's Drug-Free Workplace Program, and complete a pre-employment drug screening.