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Underground Contractor Jobs in Spring Valley, CA

kennedyjc

Construction Inspector

San Diego, CA · On-site

$50/hr

... underground utilities, pipeline installation, field quality observation, and construction documentation. In this role, you'll observe contractor work, document progress, support testing and ...

Permon Contractors Inc

Plumber/Laborer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$54.66 - $74.43/hr

Permon Contractors Inc. is a federal general contractor specializing in Department of Defense (DoD ... Perform underground plumbing installations, above-ground piping, rough-in, top-out, finish work ...

Kennedy Jenks

Construction Inspector

San Diego, CA · On-site

$50/hr

... underground utilities, pipeline installation, field quality observation, and construction documentation. In this role, you'll observe contractor work, document progress, support testing and ...

Team Fishel

Equipment Operator

San Diego, CA · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

... excavating equipment for underground utility construction 2. Assisting the foreman and/or ... federal contracting requirements 6. Working on or near expensive equipment and materials 7. ...

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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 Aug 18, 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 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 job categories do people searching Underground Contractor jobs in Spring Valley, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Underground Contractor jobs in Spring Valley, CA are:

Underground Contractor jobs near you

Construction Inspector

kennedyjc

San Diego, CA • On-site

$50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Kennedy Jenks is seeking a Construction Inspector (TRC On-Call) with pipeline experience in California to support water and wastewater infrastructure projects with a focus on underground utilities, pipeline installation, field quality observation, and construction documentation.

In this role, you’ll observe contractor work, document progress, support testing and commissioning, and coordinate with construction managers, resident engineers, contractors, clients, and internal teams.

What You’ll Do

As a Construction Inspector, you'll work at the intersection of construction observation, quality assurance, field documentation, and project coordination to support the successful delivery of water and wastewater infrastructure projects.

  • Inspect field work: Conduct inspections to ensure contractor work aligns with plans, specifications, and quality standards.
  • Document progress: Prepare daily reports, including written documentation and photo logs.
  • Support testing and reviews: Assist with material testing, special inspections, contractor submittal review, and as-built drawing review.
  • Monitor requirements: Make sure work complies to public, regulatory, and permitting agency requirements, including SWPPP and safety practices.
  • Coordinate in the field: Support pipeline testing, flushing, commissioning, and startup activities; participate in progress meetings; interact with clients; and work under the direct supervision of the Construction Manager, Resident Engineer, or Lead Inspector.

What Makes This Role Different

  • Field insight that protects quality: Your documentation helps identify issues early, support timely decisions, and reduce rework, delays, or disputed field conditions.
  • Direct impact on essential infrastructure: Your work supports water and wastewater systems that serve communities and protect public health.
  • Bridge between plans and construction: You help project teams connect design intent, field conditions, contractor work, and client expectations.

What You Bring

  • Strong communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Work style: Ability to work independently and within a team.
  • Field coordination: Comfort working with contractors, clients, inspectors, testing firms, and internal project teams.

Qualifications

  • Education and experience: Technical school certificate or degree preferred, or equivalent experience; 3 years of water or wastewater infrastructure experience required, with pipeline or underground utility inspection experience strongly preferred.
  • Technical and software skills: Familiarity with construction blueprints, drawings, specifications, applicable codes, Microsoft Office, inspection tools, and reporting systems.
  • Work environment: Fieldwork includes exposure to varying weather conditions, uneven terrain, construction noise, traffic, equipment, and potential hazardous materials.
  • Safety requirements: Strict adherence to safety protocols is required, including use of required personal protective equipment and project-specific safety practices.

This role requires full-time presence on project sites and in the office as needed. KJ offers relocation support if needed.

Hourly Pay Rate: Anticipated at $50.00/hour and may vary based on experience, qualifications, certifications, and location. Many of our California public works projects are subject to prevailing wage, often exceeding base pay.

Benefits summary: Medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance; a health savings account; a 401(k); bonus programs; tuition reimbursement; employee ownership opportunity; professional registration support; business travel assistance; competitive paid time off and holidays; an employee assistance program; and additional programs that support your wellbeing and professional growth.

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