ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Underground Laborer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Quanta Services

Underground Foreman

San Jose, CA

$28 - $36/hr

The Underground Foreman/Operator position will oversee the work of their crews' depending on job ... He/she will help train new laborers and operators on proper processes and job functions including ...

FiberTel, LLC

Underground Foreman

San Jose, CA

$28 - $36/hr

The Underground Foreman/Operator position will oversee the work of their crews' depending on job ... He/she will help train new laborers and operators on proper processes and job functions including ...

FiberTel, LLC

Underground Foreman

San Jose, CA · On-site

$28/hr

The Underground Foreman/Operator position will oversee the work of their crews' depending on job ... He/she will help train new laborers and operators on proper processes and job functions including ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsUnderground Laborer JobsUnderground Laborer Jobs in California

Underground Laborer information

See California salary details

$11

$17

$24

How much do underground laborer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground laborer in California is $17.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an underground laborer?

Underground laborers are workers who perform a variety of physical tasks below the earth’s surface, often in tunnels, mines, or utility installations. Their duties can include digging, laying pipes or cables, operating heavy machinery, and helping to maintain safety standards. This role typically requires physical strength, attention to safety protocols, and the ability to work in confined or challenging environments. Underground laborers are essential for construction, mining, and infrastructure projects that require work beneath ground level.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an underground laborer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Underground Laborer, you need physical stamina, basic construction knowledge, and familiarity with safety standards, often supported by a high school diploma or GED. Experience with hand and power tools, underground utility locators, and OSHA safety certifications is commonly required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and adaptability make someone stand out in this position. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure safe and efficient completion of underground construction and utility projects.

What are some common challenges faced by underground laborers, and how can they be addressed?

Underground laborers often encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, exposure to dust and varying temperatures, and operating heavy machinery in low-light conditions. To address these challenges, employees are provided with specialized safety training, personal protective equipment, and regular breaks to ensure well-being. It's important to maintain clear communication with team members and supervisors, as teamwork and vigilance are crucial for a safe and efficient work environment.

What is the difference between Underground Laborer vs Tunnel Worker?

AspectUnderground LaborerTunnel Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, OSHA safety trainingSimilar credentials, often additional specialized training
Work EnvironmentUnderground construction sites, confined spacesUnderground tunnels, confined and hazardous conditions
Industry UsageConstruction, mining, infrastructure projectsMining, transportation, civil engineering
Common Search IntentComparison for entry-level or general underground workSpecialized tunnel construction roles

Underground Laborers and Tunnel Workers both operate in underground environments and require safety training. However, Tunnel Workers typically engage in more specialized tasks within tunnel construction or maintenance, often requiring additional certifications. Both roles are vital in industries like construction and mining, but Tunnel Workers focus more on the technical aspects of tunnel excavation and support.

What are popular job titles related to Underground Laborer jobs in California?

For Underground Laborer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Underground Laborer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Underground Laborer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Underground Laborer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Underground Laborer job openings:

Underground Laborer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Underground Laborer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,137 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Underground Laborer

Leo Tidwell Excavating Corporation

Paso Robles, CA • On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Leo Tidwell Excavating Corporation has been a utilities contractor for the past 46+ years. This includes substructure: (Plowing, trenching, excavating, directional boring, rodding, pulling, paving, conduit and cable placing, fiber placing and pulling and manhole placement).

Our corporate office is in Paso Robles, and we have a secondary office operating in Selma. Our area of work includes the central part of California, the coast to the Nevada border; from San Jose to Los Angeles, Bakersfield to Sacramento and the Lancaster to Bishop area.

Job Requirements
  • Hard working with strong work ethic.
  • Able to complete jobs safely and timely.
  • Able to meet attendance & punctuality requirements.
  • Display endurance, the ability to work in all weather conditions.
  • Comply with drug / alcohol free policy
  • Must be willing to travel (Leo Tidwell Excavating Corp. pays for hotels and per diem when out-of-town work is required).
Job Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Roadside construction experience a plus
  • Experience with concrete and/or asphalt work a plus
Responsibilities for the Role
  • Potholing for existing utilities
  • Setting conduit
  • Compacting trenches
  • Spotting operators
  • Flagging
Physical Demands of the job
  • Push, pull, reach, and carry objects such as tools, materials and equipment weighing up to 90 lbs.
  • Load and unload tools and equipment on truck.
  • Ability to ascend and descend ladders.
  • All work is performed at remote locations; driving and sitting are required.
  • All work is outdoors, subject to inclement weather conditions.
  • Must be able to stoop, kneel, crouch and crawl while performing work.
  • Must be able to stand or walk for long periods of time.
  • Must be able to operate or work around heavy equipment and machinery.
  • Must be able to work in small/confined areas.
  • Must be able to maintain visual and audible contact with other crewman and all moving or stationary persons/vehicles/objects to ensure safe coordination of movement.
  • Must be able to work while wearing safety boots, safety glasses, hardhat, and any applicable safety gear.
Compensation and Benefits
  • Compensation will be hourly based on experience.
  • 4-10-hour work days (Mon-Thurs typically)
  • Full-time employment
  • Leo Tidwell Excavating Corporation does offer medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Leo Tidwell Excavating Corporation also offers a retirement benefit.

Leo Tidwell Excavating Corporation provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.