ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Underground Electrical Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Enterprise Solutions

$130K - $150K/yr

... layout, underground work, and equipment installation Ensure all work meets NEC and project ... in the electrical field 10+ years of supervisory experience leading crews in the field Proven ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsUnderground Electrical JobsUnderground Electrical Jobs in Iowa

Underground Electrical information

See Iowa salary details

$14

$32

$45

How much do underground electrical jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground electrical in Iowa is $32.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.53 and $38.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an underground electrical worker?

Underground electrical workers are skilled professionals responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical cables and systems that are buried below ground. Their work ensures the safe transmission and distribution of electricity to homes, businesses, and infrastructure without visible overhead wires. These workers often collaborate with engineers, utility companies, and construction teams to prevent outages and maintain safety standards. They also conduct inspections and respond to emergencies, making their role critical to uninterrupted electrical service.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an underground electrical worker?

To thrive as an Underground Electrical Worker, you need a solid understanding of electrical systems, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional vocational training or apprenticeship preferred. Familiarity with tools like cable locators, trenchers, and adherence to OSHA and NFPA 70E safety standards or certifications is common. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable installation and maintenance of underground electrical systems.

What is the difference between Underground Electrical vs Electrical Lineman?

AspectUnderground ElectricalElectrical Lineman
CertificationsElectrical licenses, OSHA safety trainingElectrical licenses, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentUnderground vaults, tunnels, trenchesUtility poles, overhead lines, street-side
Industry UsagePower distribution, infrastructure projectsOverhead power lines, maintenance

Underground Electrical workers focus on installing and maintaining electrical systems below ground, often working in confined spaces like vaults and tunnels. Electrical Linemen primarily work on overhead power lines and utility poles. Both roles require similar certifications and safety training but differ mainly in work environment and specific tasks.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in underground electrical roles, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in underground electrical roles often encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, dealing with unpredictable soil conditions, and ensuring the safety of both themselves and nearby infrastructure. Effective communication with team members, thorough site assessments, and adherence to strict safety protocols are essential for managing these challenges. Additionally, ongoing training and staying updated on the latest industry standards help ensure safe and efficient operations in this demanding environment.

What are popular job titles related to Underground Electrical jobs in Iowa?

For Underground Electrical jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Underground Electrical jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Underground Electrical jobs in Iowa are:

Underground Electrical jobs near you
Infographic showing various Underground Electrical job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,255 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

Licensed Journeyman Electrician (Underground)

Helix Electric, Inc.

Cedar Rapids, IA

$27.25 - $37.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Helix Electric rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Helix Electric was founded in 1985 and is one of the nation’s largest and most successful electrical contracting companies. Our commitment to empowering people and powering projects is realized by our exceptional team of dedicated and highly skilled experts working together and never settling for good enough. We are proud of the team-oriented and employee-empowered business approach that defines our unique character.

We are looking for a dynamic Licensed Journeyman Underground Electrician. The successful electrician will be part of a production-driven team, performing underground electrical installations, layout, and troubleshooting in commercial and large-scale construction environments.

Responsible for the assembly, installation, maintenance, testing, and troubleshooting of underground electrical equipment and wiring systems, with an emphasis on duct banks, underground conduit/raceway systems, grounding, pull boxes, handholes, vaults, service distribution, and related underground infrastructure on commercial and industrial projects.

DUTIES & SCOPE:

    • Prepares work area for installation of underground electrical systems and equipment.

    • Installs underground conduit systems including PVC, rigid conduit, sweeps, stub-ups, duct banks, and related raceway systems.

    • Installs pull boxes, handholes, vaults, and grounding and bonding systems for underground electrical distribution.

    • Connects wiring and equipment as required by code, project drawings, and job specifications.

    • Reads and interprets blueprints, one-lines, underground layouts, and electrical drawings to install work as specified.

    • Verifies dimensions, elevations, alignments, and clearances per drawings, plans, and field conditions.

    • Assists with feeder installation, cable pulls, terminations, and underground distribution system buildout.

    • Supports installation of site lighting feeds, service conduits, grounding grids, and underground pathways for electrical equipment.

    • Performs testing and troubleshooting of underground systems and assists with energization readiness.

    • Operates equipment only if trained and certified to operate. This may include tools and equipment that require certification or site-specific training after use.

    • Sets up and operates tools such as hydraulic benders, power threaders, power pullers, cable vacuum systems, and other underground installation tools as needed.

    • Secures and locks up equipment after use.

    • Performs other work as assigned in support of project schedules and crew productivity.

    • Strong working knowledge of the National Electrical Code, applicable building codes, and underground installation practices.

    • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

    • Ability to work safely in a production-driven construction environment.

    • Ability to coordinate with foremen, superintendents, operators, and other trades to keep underground work progressing on schedule.

    • Proven attention to detail with layout, elevations, routing, and code compliance.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & REQUIREMENTS:

  • Valid State Journeyman Electrician license required where applicable; must be able to meet project and state licensing requirements after starting work.

  • Proven experience performing underground electrical work on commercial, industrial, utility, or large-scale construction projects.

  • Experience with underground conduit/raceway installation, duct banks, grounding, feeder pulls, and electrical distribution systems.

  • Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings, site plans, and underground layouts.

  • Proven track record of delivering safe projects on schedule and within budget.

  • OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 preferred.

  • Experience operating lifts, trench-related equipment, or other jobsite equipment is preferred when properly trained and certified.

  • Job requires working in all elements, depending on job location, time of year, heat, cold, rain, snow.
  • Wear personal protective equipment (hard hat, safety glasses, and gloves always), respirator when required.
  • Able to work 8-10 hours per day, 40 hours per week, overtime, and night shifts as required.
  • Must be able to perform the essential functions of the job, including crawling, standing, stooping, bending, crouching, kneeling, sitting, reaching, able to routinely lift heavy objects in excess of 50 pounds and pushing and pulling of objects is required.
  • Repetitive use of arms, hands, and fingers.
  • Physical work is a primary part (more than 70%) of the job.

The actual compensation is dependent upon many factors, such as: location, training, transferable skills, work experience, business needs and market demands. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. The role may also be eligible for bonus and benefits. Helix Electric provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes the following:

  • Medical Plans
  • Dental Plans
  • Vision Plan
  • Life Insurance
  • Disability Insurance
  • Accident Insurance
  • Critical Illness Insurance
  • Hospital Insurance
  • Pet insurance
  • 401(k) Plan with Match
  • Employee Discount Program through PerkSpot
  • Tax Savings Accounts – FSA, HSA, DCFSA and CSA
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Scholarships

What Helix Electric employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom