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Underground Locator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Underground Locator

Cheyenne, WY · On-site

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

ITG Communications is hiring an underground locator in Cheyenne, WY Responsible for leading underground drilling operations by accurately locating existing utilities, planning safe bore paths, and ...

HDD Underground Locator

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$20.75 - $25.75/hr

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 ...

Bore Locator (Underground)

Ontario, CA · On-site

$24.25 - $30/hr

The Underground Locator plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and integrity of underground utility infrastructure during construction and excavation activities. Job Responsibilities (Including ...

Bore Locator

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Your New Job The Underground Locator plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and integrity of underground utility infrastructure during construction and excavation activities. Responsibilities

Bore Locator (Travel Crew)

Louisville, KY · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Your New Job The Underground Locator plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and integrity of underground utility infrastructure during construction and excavation activities. Responsibilities

Bore Locator

Ontario, CA · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

The Underground Locator plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and integrity of underground utility infrastructure during construction and excavation activities. Job Responsibilities (Including ...

Bore Locator

Salem, OR · On-site

$24.25 - $30.25/hr

The Underground Locator plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and integrity of underground utility infrastructure during construction and excavation activities. Job Responsibilities (Including ...

Drilling Locator

Oktaha, OK · On-site

$22.75 - $28.25/hr

Drilling Locator Who We Are ... Benton Triage is a trusted, reliable, and reputable leader in aerial and underground FTTH/FTTP ...

Drilling Locator

Muskogee, OK · On-site

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

Drilling Locator Who We Are ... Benton Triage is a trusted, reliable, and reputable leader in aerial and underground FTTH/FTTP ...

Underground Utility Locator (SUE)

Nashville, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Underground Utility Locator (SUE) Department: Construction/CEI Employment Type: Full Time Location: Nashville, TN Description HMB Professional Engineers is seeking an Underground Utility Locator to ...

Damage Prevention Underground Locator

Tampa, FL · On-site

$22 - $27.25/hr

POSITION CONCEPT Accurately locate and mark Tampa Electric Company's underground facilities to ensure public safety and minimize damage resulting from excavation work. Also, in response to customer ...

Damage Prevention Underground Locator

Tampa, FL · On-site

$21 - $28.50/hr

POSITION CONCEPT Accurately locate and mark Tampa Electric Company's underground facilities to ensure public safety and minimize damage resulting from excavation work. Also, in response to customer ...

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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 Jun 6, 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 are Underground Locators?

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.

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, and why are they important?

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.
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:
Infographic showing various Underground Locator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,319 per year, or $18.4 per hour.
Underground Locator

Underground Locator

ITG Communications

Cheyenne, WY • On-site

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


ITG Communications rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

ITG Communications is hiring an underground locator in Cheyenne, WY
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.

Requirements
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

PERSON OVERVIEW
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 as required by field operations
  • Ability to use hands to handle tools and operate equipment, and coordinate foot controls when needed
  • Ability to reach with hands and arms during locating and drilling activities
  • Ability to stoop, kneel, crouch, bend, and crawl in field environments
  • Ability to lift up to 75 lbs as part of job duties
  • Ability to work in confined spaces when necessary
  • Ability to maintain all required safety expectations at all times
  • 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) at all times
  • Operating vehicles and equipment safely in accordance with guidelines
  • Maintaining valid certifications and licenses as required for the role
  • Participating in mandatory safety training sessions and meetings
  • Reporting unsafe conditions, hazards, or unsafe practices promptly
  • Passing required drug and alcohol screening as a condition of employment
  • 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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