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Underground Contractor Jobs in Spring Valley, CA

Cass Arrieta

Be Seen First

Underground Wet Utility Estimator

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$85K - $180K/yr

Cass Arrieta is a General Engineering Contractor specializing in wet utilities, dry utilities ... We are currently looking for a Senior Underground Wet Utility Estimator/Project Manager for an ...

Team Fishel

Foreman - Underground (Telecom)

San Diego, CA · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

... an Underground Telecom Foreman for projects with our Broadband Communications Division. The UG ... federal contracting requirements 6. Working on or near expensive equipment and materials 7. ...

RimePro Inc

Plumbing Designer

San Diego, CA

$90K - $120K/yr

... contractor seeking a Senior Plumbing Designer to support high-volume multifamily construction ... underground layout through final drawing completion and code compliance. The ideal candidate ...

Essel

Utility Locator

San Marcos, CA

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

The Utility Locator plays a crucial role in ensuring that underground utilities are accurately ... Communicate effectively with contractors, clients, and team members regarding utility locations and ...

Essel

Utility Locator

San Marcos, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

The Utility Locator plays a crucial role in ensuring that underground utilities are accurately ... Communicate effectively with contractors, clients, and team members regarding utility locations and ...

Essel

Utility Locator

San Marcos, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

The Utility Locator plays a crucial role in ensuring that underground utilities are accurately ... Communicate effectively with contractors, clients, and team members regarding utility locations and ...

NV5

Electric Distribution Designer

San Diego, CA · On-site +1

Coordinate with project teams, contractors, utility personnel, and external stakeholders to resolve ... Certifications related to utility design (e.g., SDG&E underground/overhead or gas design ...

NV5

Electric Distribution Designer

San Diego, CA · On-site +1

... contractor or third-party design packages * Coordinate across multidisciplinary teams and manage stakeholder expectations * Certifications related to utility design (e.g., SDG&E underground/overhead ...

NV5

Electric Distribution Designer

San Diego, CA · On-site

Coordinate with project teams, contractors, utility personnel, and external stakeholders to resolve ... Certifications related to utility design (e.g., SDG&E underground/overhead or gas design ...

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All JobsUnderground Contractor JobsUnderground Contractor Jobs in Spring Valley, CA

Underground Contractor information

See Spring Valley, CA salary details

$17

$25

$43

How much do underground contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground contractor in Spring Valley, CA is $25.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $28.27 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.

Underground Contractor jobs near you
Estimator (underground wet utlities)

Estimator (underground wet utlities)

K2 Staffing

San Diego, CA

$150K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Summary

Our client is a well-established and highly respected Underground Wet Utility General Contractor that has been serving Southern California for decades. Specializing in the installation and rehabilitation of underground water, sewer, storm drain, and related civil infrastructure, they have built an outstanding reputation for delivering quality workmanship on municipal, public works, and private development projects throughout San Diego County.
Due to continued growth, they are seeking a motivated Estimator / Project Engineer who is eager to develop a long-term career within the heavy civil construction industry. This position is ideal for someone with underground utility or civil construction experience who wants to expand their estimating knowledge while also gaining valuable Project Engineering and Project Management experience. The company is committed to mentoring ambitious individuals and providing a clear path for career advancement. This is a full-time, onsite position located in El Cajon, CA.

Duties & Responsibilities
  • Prepare complete and accurate cost estimates for underground wet utility construction projects involving water, sewer, storm drain, and related civil infrastructure.
  • Review construction drawings, specifications, bid documents, geotechnical reports, and project requirements.
  • Perform quantity takeoffs for excavation, trenching, pipe installation, structures, fittings, backfill, paving restoration, and related work.
  • Solicit and evaluate vendor and subcontractor quotations.
  • Assist with developing competitive bid proposals, schedules, and pricing strategies.
  • Maintain organized estimating files, historical cost data, and bid documentation.
  • Attend pre-bid meetings, site walks, and project handoff meetings as required.
  • Coordinate with project managers, superintendents, field personnel, vendors, and clients throughout the bidding process.
  • Support Project Managers during active construction by assisting with:
    • Project planning and coordination
    • RFIs and submittals
    • Material procurement
    • Change order pricing
    • Budget tracking
    • Schedule updates
    • Cost control
    • Project documentation
  • Assist with project closeout documentation and final cost analysis.
  • Develop a strong understanding of municipal standards, utility agency requirements, and civil construction best practices.
  • Build long-term knowledge of estimating, project management, and field operations to support continued career growth within the organization.
Qualifications & Requirements
  • 2+ years of experience in civil construction, underground utilities, heavy civil, land development, public works, or a closely related construction environment.
  • Experience with underground wet utility projects involving water, sewer, and/or storm drain systems is highly preferred.
  • Candidates with Project Engineer, Assistant Project Manager, Estimator, Field Engineer, or similar experience are encouraged to apply.
  • Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related discipline is preferred but not required.
  • Equivalent field experience will also be considered.
  • Ability to read and interpret civil plans, specifications, grading plans, and utility drawings.
  • Experience performing quantity takeoffs and developing construction cost estimates is preferred.
  • Familiarity with Bluebeam, PlanSwift, HCSS HeavyBid, Bid2Win, AGTEK, or similar estimating software is a plus, but not required.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
  • Strong analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Self-motivated with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn.
  • Demonstrated desire to build a long-term career in estimating and project management.
  • Valid California driver's license with a satisfactory driving record.
  • Ability to work onsite in El Cajon, California.
Why Join This Team?
  • Opportunity to work with one of San Diego County's most respected underground wet utility contractors.
  • Direct mentorship from experienced estimators and project managers.
  • Hands-on exposure to both estimating and project management, providing a well-rounded career path.
  • Long-term stability with an established and growing organization.
  • Opportunity for professional growth and advancement into senior estimating or project management roles.
  • Competitive compensation up to $150,000 annually, depending on experience.
  • Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, paid time off, holidays, and retirement benefits.
Employment Type: Full time Location: San Diego, CA