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Underground Contractor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Lead Locate Technician

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$43K - $56K/yr

It also offers private utility-locating services to homeowners and contractors, with 24/7 availability.Benchmark plays a critical role in preventing damage to underground utilities during excavation.

Medium Voltage Splicer

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$23.50 - $28/hr

Helix Electric, Inc. is one of the most successful open-shop electrical contracting companies in ... Install, troubleshoot and repair electrical equipment required for underground distribution systems.

Medium Voltage Splicer

Manassas, VA

$23.50 - $28/hr

Helix Electric, Inc. is one of the most successful open-shop electrical contracting companies in ... Install, troubleshoot and repair electrical equipment required for underground distribution systems.

Pipelayer

Fredericksburg, VA ยท On-site

$25 - $35/hr

About the Role Stocks General Contractors is seeking a skilled and dependable Pipelayer to join our growing field operations team. This role is essential to the successful installation of underground ...

Pipelayer

Fredericksburg, VA ยท On-site

$25 - $35/hr

About the Role Stocks General Contractors is seeking a skilled and dependable Pipelayer to join our growing field operations team. This role is essential to the successful installation of underground ...

Utility Locator

Richmond, VA

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

... contractors for the locating of privately owned sewer services. * Maintain copies of all locate requests indefinitely. * Ensure the safety of the public and other underground utility facilities.

Utility Locator

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

... contractors for the locating of privately owned sewer services. * Maintain copies of all locate requests indefinitely. * Ensure the safety of the public and other underground utility facilities.

Utility Locator

Richmond, VA

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

... contractors for the locating of privately owned sewer services. * Maintain copies of all locate requests indefinitely. * Ensure the safety of the public and other underground utility facilities.

Utility Locator

Richmond, VA

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

... contractors for the locating of privately owned sewer services. * Maintain copies of all locate requests indefinitely. * Ensure the safety of the public and other underground utility facilities.

Utility Locator

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

... contractors for the locating of privately owned sewer services. * Maintain copies of all locate requests indefinitely. * Ensure the safety of the public and other underground utility facilities.

Utility Locator

Richmond, VA

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

... contractors for the locating of privately owned sewer services. * Maintain copies of all locate requests indefinitely. * Ensure the safety of the public and other underground utility facilities.

Showing results 41-60

Underground Contractor information

See Virginia salary details

$5

$26

$40

How much do underground contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground contractor in Virginia is $26.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.70 and $33.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 cities in Virginia are hiring for Underground Contractor jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Underground Contractor job openings:

Infographic showing various Underground Contractor job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 22% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,928 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Locate Technician - Virginia Beach, VA

Benchmark, LLC

Virginia Beach, VA โ€ข On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Established in 2012, Benchmark, a division of National Underground Group, provides damage prevention solutions to utility companies and municipalities. Benchmark also provides private utility-locating services to homeowners and contractors, with 24/7 service to its clients. 

Benchmark is responsible for eliminating or reducing damages to underground utilities during any kind of excavation. Through the 811-call center, Benchmark locates underground facilities through established on-call contracts, and is responsible for marking gas, water, sewer, electric and fiber lines. 

The company works diligently to build lasting relationships within the industry. Benchmark’s contracts typically span several years, so providing the highest-quality work and outstanding customer service is the top priority, after ensuring that all safety measures are taken before, during and after each project. Benchmark provides service to Virginia, D.C., Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Delaware. 

We are currently recruiting a water and sewer technician in Virginia Beach, VA. See details below.

Key Roles & Responsibilities:

  • Use mechanical/technical equipment to accurately locate underground facilities such as electrical power lines, and fiber optic lines.
  • Provide locate services for single contractor along the I-64 corridor.
  • Communicate and interact daily with client managers and excavation crews to discuss locate issues.
  • Interpret job order tickets and respond appropriately to ensure customer satisfaction.
  • Read maps and blueprints to ensure accurate location of utilities.
  • Determine efficient route to each locate in rural and urban areas.
  • Remove and replace manhole lids.

Requirements/ Qualifications

  • Willingness to learn – Instructor-led training is required to receive locator certification.
  • Ability to drive local roads, work outdoors, and operate independently 
  • Ability to perform locate duties before or after normal business hours when on-call
  • Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record
  • Ability to access restricted and/or controlled areas (such as federal installations)
  • Excellent communication skills 
  • Strong work ethic 
  • Ability to use a computer to complete documentation and receive and send email
  • Ability to lift, push, and pull at least 50 pounds
  • Ability to walk all types of terrain (grass, ditches, wooded areas, gravel, etc.) in and around construction zones and residential, commercial, industrial, and rural areas in all types of weather conditions (rain snow, cold, heat, etc.). May require walking up to 5 miles in one day, several times a week.
  • Salary range - $20-26/hr depending on experience.