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Underground Contractor Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

... contractor * Career runway -- this employer is actively growing in the Southeast; inspectors here move into senior QC, field supervision, and PM tracks What You'll Do * Inspect aerial and underground ...

We work with general contractors, business owners, property developers, engineers, and many other ... The Foreman Utility will oversee the underground crews to ensure a quality installation is ...

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Underground Contractor information

See Tennessee salary details

$4

$24

$37

How much do underground contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 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 is an underground contractor?

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an underground contractor?

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 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 cities in Tennessee are hiring for Underground Contractor jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Underground Contractor job openings:

Infographic showing various Underground Contractor job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,686 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

General Application

Jones Bros. Contractors, LLC

Mount Juliet, TN โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Company Summary: Founded in 1946, Jones Bros is Tennessee's leading highway and heavy civil contractor. We offer site aggregate, asphalt paving, bridges and structures, concrete paving, milling, pre-construction, site preparation, and underground utility services.


We are pleased that you are interested in employment with us. We offer equal employment opportunities to all persons
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We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and a TN Drug-Free Workplace