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Underground Locator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ITG Communications

Underground Locator

Kaukauna, WI · On-site

$24.50 - $30.50/hr

ITG Communications is hiring for a Underground Locator in Kaukauna, WI Responsible for leading underground drilling operations by accurately locating existing utilities, planning safe bore paths, and ...

ByVerTek LLC

HDD Underground Locator

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$35 - $37/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The HDD Underground Locator works closely with drill operators and field leadership to support successful underground fiber installations through precise locating, documentation, and real-time ...

ITG Communications

Underground Locator

Hallandale, FL · On-site

$22.75 - $28.25/hr

Responsible for leading underground drilling operations by accurately locating existing utilities, planning safe bore paths, and directing drilling equipment during drilling operations ensuring ...

Hendricks Power

Underground Locator (Hendricks Power)

Avon, IN

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

What You'll Do As an Underground Utility Locator, you'll identify and mark underground utility lines to protect public safety and prevent damage to underground utility infrastructure during ...

Trilon Group

Underground Utility Locator (SUE)

Nashville, TN · On-site

$25 - $33/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Underground Utility Locator (SUE) Department: Construction/CEI Employment Type: Full Time Location: Nashville, TN Compensation: $25.00 - $33.00 / hour Description HMB Professional Engineers is ...

Trilon Group

Underground Utility Locator (SUE)

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

$25 - $33/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Underground Utility Locator (SUE) Department: Construction/CEI Employment Type: Full Time Location: Murfreesboro, TN Compensation: $25.00 - $33.00 / hour Description HMB Professional Engineers is ...

SUPERIOR DESIGN POOLS & SPAS INC

$17 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The duties include preparing job information packs for the construction crew; calling for underground locator; ordering, receiving, and verifying materials; printing and verifying vendor and ...

Trilon

Underground Utility Locator (SUE)

Nashville, TN · Hybrid

$25 - $33/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

HMB Professional Engineers is seeking an Underground Utility Locator to join our team and help us expand our SUE capabilities. The right candidate will have 5+ years of experience in locating ...

Trilon

Underground Utility Locator (SUE)

Murfreesboro, TN · Hybrid

$25 - $33/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

HMB Professional Engineers is seeking an Underground Utility Locator to join our team and help us expand our SUE capabilities. The right candidate will have 5+ years of experience in locating ...

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Underground Locator information

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$13

$18

$26

How much do underground locator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground locator in the United States is $18.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an underground locator?

Underground Locators are professionals who use specialized equipment to detect and map underground utilities such as gas, water, electric, and telecommunications lines. Their work ensures that construction or excavation projects do not accidentally damage these hidden utilities, which can cause safety hazards and service disruptions. Locators interpret site plans, mark utility paths on the ground, and often communicate with contractors or property owners to provide accurate information. This role requires attention to detail, technical skills, and knowledge of safety protocols.

What are some common challenges faced by underground locators in the field, and how can they be addressed?

Underground Locators often encounter challenges such as interpreting outdated or inaccurate utility maps, dealing with adverse weather conditions, and identifying utilities in congested or high-traffic areas. To overcome these obstacles, locators rely on advanced detection equipment, thorough training, and effective communication with utility companies and site personnel. Maintaining up-to-date certifications and following safety protocols also help ensure accuracy and minimize potential risks while on the job.

Is an underground utility locator a good job?

An underground utility locator is a skilled trade that involves detecting and marking underground pipes and cables using specialized tools and techniques. It offers steady employment, often requires certifications, and involves outdoor work in various weather conditions. The job can be physically demanding but provides opportunities for career advancement in the utility and construction industries.

What is the difference between Underground Locator vs Utility Locator?

AspectUnderground LocatorUtility Locator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, industry-specific certificationsOSHA safety training, industry-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentUnderground construction sites, utility corridorsUnderground utility lines, construction zones
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, telecommunications, energy sectorsUtility companies, construction firms, telecom providers
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, certifications, and job dutiesSimilar roles, job requirements, and industry standards

Underground Locator and Utility Locator roles often overlap, with both requiring safety training and working in underground environments. However, Underground Locators typically focus on identifying and marking underground infrastructure during construction projects, while Utility Locators may have a broader scope, including locating various utility lines for maintenance or repair. Both roles are essential in ensuring safety and accuracy in underground work.

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

To thrive as an Underground Locator, you need knowledge of utility mapping, safe excavation practices, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with electromagnetic locating equipment, GPS devices, and sometimes certifications like NULCA or OSHA safety training are commonly expected. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help you accurately interpret site plans and coordinate with contractors. These abilities are crucial for preventing utility damage, ensuring safety, and maintaining operational efficiency on construction sites.

How do you become an underground locator?

To become an underground locator, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training in underground utility detection, often through technical schools or apprenticeship programs. Certification in utility locating and proficiency with tools like ground-penetrating radar and electromagnetic locators can improve job prospects and accuracy.
More about Underground Locator jobs

What states have the most Underground Locator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Underground Locator jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Underground Locator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Underground Locator jobs are:

Underground Locator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Underground Locator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,319 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Underground Locator

ITG Communications

Kaukauna, WI • On-site

$24.50 - $30.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

ITG Communications rating

5.4

Company rating: 5.4 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

ITG Communications is hiring for a Underground Locator in Kaukauna, WI
Responsible for leading underground drilling operations by accurately locating existing utilities, planning safe bore paths, and directing drilling equipment during drilling operations ensuring safety, accuracy, and efficiency while preventing damage to existing utilities and infrastructure.
Responsibilities
  • Lead and coordinate underground drilling operations as the primary person in charge of drill crews.
  • Locate and identify existing underground utilities prior to drilling using specialized detection equipment.
  • Interpret utility maps, construction plans, and design specifications to plan efficient and safe bore paths.
  • Direct drilling operations by communicating with the driller regarding depth, direction, and obstacles.
  • Monitor drilling progress using specialized electronic tracking equipment to track drill head position.
  • Perform potholing and visual verification of utility crossings to ensure accurate depth measurements.
  • Ensure all drilling operations comply with safety protocols and damage prevention requirements.
  • Document utility locations, bore paths, and completed work with precise measurements and details.
  • Make critical decisions regarding drill path adjustments to avoid existing utilities and obstacles.
  • Communicate with property owners, local utility representatives, and other stakeholders as needed.
  • Maintain and calibrate locating equipment to ensure accuracy.
  • Train and mentor crew members on proper locating techniques and underground safety protocols.

Key Measures / Key Performance Indicators:
  • Utility strike prevention record
  • Accuracy of utility location and bore path planning
  • Productivity and completion rates
  • Documentation quality and completeness
  • Safety compliance and incident prevention
  • Equipment maintenance and calibration records
  • First Time Right rates
  • Leadership effectiveness with drill crews

Requirements
Education:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Technical training in utility location and underground construction preferred
  • Certification in utility location or horizontal directional drilling techniques/ equipment highly desirable

Experience:
  • 4+ years of experience in underground construction or utility location
  • Experience with horizontal directional drilling operations
  • Demonstrated expertise with utility locating equipment
  • Experience interpreting utility maps and construction plans

Exposure:
  • Comprehensive knowledge of underground utility infrastructure
  • Expertise with electromagnetic and ground-penetrating radar locating equipment
  • Understanding of soil conditions and their impact on drilling operations
  • Knowledge of utility color coding standards and marking protocols
  • Familiarity with state and local regulations regarding underground construction

Factors critical to success at ITG Communications for this position:
  • Exceptional attention to detail and precision with excellent spatial reasoning abilities
  • Strong leadership and decision-making skills under pressure
  • Unwavering commitment to safety and damage prevention as top priorities

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand, walk, and sit
  • Ability to use hands to handle or feet
  • Ability to reach with hands and arms
  • Ability to stoop, kneel, crouch, bend and crawl
  • Ability to lift up to 75 lbs
  • Ability to work in confined spaces when necessary
  • Ability to maintain all safety expectations
  • Ability to work in various weather conditions and terrain types

Please note:
This is a safety-sensitive position. The employee has responsibility for their own safety and the safety of others. The employee must be able to perform all duties in accordance with safety regulations, company policies, and client requirements. This includes but is not limited to:
  • Following all required safety protocols and procedures
  • Using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Operating vehicles and equipment safely
  • Maintaining valid certifications and licenses as required
  • Participating in mandatory safety training and meetings
  • Reporting unsafe conditions or practices
  • Passing required drug and alcohol screening
  • Maintaining physical capabilities necessary to perform essential job functions safely

Failure to meet these safety requirements may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment.
Additional Comments
ITG is an equal employment opportunity employer. ITG's policy is not to discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age (40 and over), disability, military status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. ITG also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories. It is also ITG's policy to comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions.

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