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Underground Contractor Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Gillmann Services Inc.

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Underground Utilities Superintendent

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Gillmann Services is currently hiring a Underground Utilities Superintendent in the Knoxville TN ... contractors, architects, engineers, city and county officials, and clients Negotiate with ...

Walker Building Group, LLC

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Underground Utility Pipe Layer-Stormwater/Water Main

Nashville, TN · On-site

$59K - $64K/yr

Company Description About Walker Building Group, LLC Walker Building Group, LLC is a growing underground utility contractor serving Middle Tennessee. We specialize in water, sewer, storm drainage ...

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All JobsUnderground Contractor JobsUnderground Contractor Jobs in Tennessee

Underground Contractor information

See Tennessee salary details

$4

$24

$37

How much do underground contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground contractor in Tennessee is $24.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $31.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Underground Contractor, you need strong knowledge of excavation, utility installation, and safety regulations, often supported by relevant licenses or certifications in construction or heavy equipment operation. Familiarity with tools such as trenchers, backhoes, pipe lasers, and project management software is essential. Problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills for coordinating crews and managing unexpected site challenges. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring projects are completed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with industry standards.

What are underground contractors?

Underground contractors are specialized construction professionals who install, repair, and maintain infrastructure systems below ground level. This includes utilities such as water and sewer lines, storm drains, electrical conduits, and telecommunications cables. They are responsible for tasks like trenching, pipe laying, and ensuring projects comply with safety and regulatory standards. Underground contractors often work with municipalities, utility companies, and private developers to ensure essential services are safely and efficiently delivered to homes and businesses.

What are some common challenges faced by underground contractors on construction projects?

Underground contractors often encounter challenges such as unexpected subsurface conditions, utility conflicts, and coordinating with other trades working above ground. Managing groundwater, ensuring worker safety in confined spaces, and maintaining project timelines despite weather or permitting delays are also typical hurdles. Effective communication with project managers, engineers, and municipal inspectors is crucial to address these issues quickly and keep the project on track.

What is the difference between Underground Contractor vs Excavation Worker?

AspectUnderground ContractorExcavation Worker
CredentialsOSHA certifications, specialized underground work licensesOSHA certifications, basic excavation safety training
Work EnvironmentUnderground construction sites, tunnels, utility installationsOpen trenches, surface excavation sites
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, utility, infrastructure projectsConstruction, landscaping, infrastructure projects

Underground Contractors focus on planning, managing, and executing underground projects, often requiring specialized licenses and safety protocols. Excavation Workers perform the physical digging and site preparation, typically with less specialized licensing. Both roles are essential in construction projects but differ mainly in scope and responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Underground Contractor jobs in Tennessee? For Underground Contractor jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Underground Contractor jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Underground Contractor jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Underground Contractor jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Underground Contractor job openings:
Underground Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Underground Contractor job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 76% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,686 per year, or $24.8 per hour.
Underground Utilities Superintendent

Underground Utilities Superintendent

Gillmann Services Inc.

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

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Job description

Gillmann Services is currently hiring a Underground Utilities Superintendent in the Knoxville TN area

This is a Temp to Hire position . After 90 Days you get GREAT Company Benefits which include

Employee Medical / Dental / Dental Insurance

Holidays Paid and PTO Time

$200 a Year for Boots

Yearly Bonus System

Responsibilities:

Oversee all aspects of construction projects from planning to implementation Allocate resources for assigned projects

Supervise onsite personnel and subcontractors

Interface with project inspectors, contractors, architects, engineers, city and county officials, and clients

Negotiate with contractors to receive reasonable order costs

Maintain high standards of workmanship that adhere to original contract documents

Qualifications:

Must have experience installing large diameter water, sewer, and storm lines

Previous experience in construction management or other related fields is a plus

Must have Strong leadership qualities

Deadline and detail-orientedCompensation is base salary plus performance-based bonuses.

Compensation is negotiable based on education and experience.