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Underground Locator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Pipeline Locator

Cuero, TX ยท On-site

$13.25 - $16.50/hr

Overview The Line Locator is responsible for accurately locating and marking underground pipelines and utilities in response to Texas 811 locate requests. This position plays a critical role in ...

Pipeline Locator

Cuero, TX ยท On-site

$13.25 - $16.50/hr

Overview The Line Locator is responsible for accurately locating and marking underground pipelines and utilities in response to Texas 811 locate requests. This position plays a critical role in ...

Pipeline Locator

Cuero, TX ยท On-site

$13.25 - $16.50/hr

The Line Locator is responsible for accurately locating and marking underground pipelines and utilities in response to Texas 811 locate requests. This position plays a critical role in preventing ...

Pipeline Locator

Odessa, TX ยท On-site

$18/hr

... underground utility lines. You'll walk around the space and use EM locators and other tools to ... Locator! Take the first step using our short initial application.Must have the ability to pass a ...

Pipeline Locator

Pecos, TX ยท On-site

$18 - $25/hr

... underground utility lines. You'll walk around the space and use EM locators and other tools to ... Locator! Take the first step using our short initial application.Must have the ability to pass a ...

Utility Locator

Tyler, TX ยท On-site

$18/hr

... underground utility lines. You'll walk around the space and use EM locators and other tools to ... Locator! Take the first step using our short initial application.Must have the ability to pass a ...

Utility Locator

Midland, TX ยท On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

The locator plays a critical role in preventing utility damages, maintaining public safety, and ... Perform underground facility locates in accordance with company, state, and utility standards.

HDD Locator

Fort Worth, TX

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

HDD Locator Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care ... Ensures safety of the public and other utilities underground facilities. * Perform duties according ...

Utility Locator

Waco, TX ยท On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

The locator plays a critical role in preventing utility damages, maintaining public safety, and ... Perform underground facility locates in accordance with company, state, and utility standards.

Utility Locator

Lubbock, TX ยท On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

The locator plays a critical role in preventing utility damages, maintaining public safety, and ... Perform underground facility locates in accordance with company, state, and utility standards.

Utility Locator

Amarillo, TX ยท On-site

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

The locator plays a critical role in preventing utility damages, maintaining public safety, and ... Perform underground facility locates in accordance with company, state, and utility standards.

Locator

Hurst, TX ยท On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

Hourly Discover a more connected career At TCS Communications, LLC, as a Locator, you'll mark underground utilities with flags & paint to help ensure projects are safe and efficient. Connecting you ...

Power Locator

Longview, TX ยท On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

Elliot is a full-service electrical contractor specializing in overhead and underground ... The primary responsibility of the Power Locator is to drive to multiple locations every day, locate ...

Power Locator

Texarkana, TX

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Elliot is a full-service electrical contractor specializing in overhead and underground ... The primary responsibility of the Power Locator is to drive to multiple locations every day, locate ...

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Showing results 1-20

Underground Locator information

See Texas salary details

$12

$17

$25

How much do underground locator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground locator in Texas is $17.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.33 and $17.93 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 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.

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.

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. Certification in using tools like ground-penetrating radar or electromagnetic locators can improve job prospects, and on-the-job experience is often required to develop skills in identifying underground utilities safely and accurately.

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 can involve outdoor work in various weather conditions. The job can be physically demanding but provides opportunities for career advancement in the utility and construction industries.
Infographic showing various Underground Locator job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,700 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Directional Drill Locator (Underground Locator)

San Antonio, TX โ€ข On-site

GridSource
Constructionย โ€ขย 201 - 500 employees

$21 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

GridSource is seeking a full-time Underground Locator interested in building a long-term career in the underground telecommunications / cable industry.
Pay Rate: $21-24 per hour, depending on experience
This job consists of day-to-day drilling and pullback of various sized conduits for outside plant fiber networks. Most of our work is performed under master service agreements with telecom carriers and regional utilities. The work consists of new builds, maintenance, and restoration in rural and metro areas.
What you will do:
  • Job will require digging to spot existing utilities
  • Assist in digging launch and recovery pits during operation of underground Directional Bore Rig work
  • Proofing pipe, pulling mule tape, pulling cable, and setting pedestal
  • Use of hand tools such as Sledgehammers, Trenching Shovels, Concrete Saws, and Pickaxes in performance of job duties.
  • Locate for Directional bore rig, such as roadways, driveways, sidewalks, paved parking paths, etc. as required.
  • Drives company vehicles in performance of job duties
  • Locate underground utilities and monitor locating process during drilling
  • Read prints (Will Train) and demonstrate good judgement in the field
  • Work as a team in tandem with supervisor, manager and other crew members
  • Perform all duties adhering to company safety procedures and policies
  • Performs other duties such as clean-up and salvage of wrecked out materials; provides general assistance to other employees as directed
  • Complete preventive maintenance on equipment

What you will need:
  • Must be experienced in using a SubSite Locator
  • Able to spot and work well with Driller and other crew members
  • Able to pass Background and Drug screening
  • Have a good driving record
  • Able to lift 75+ lbs. continuously
  • Able to work with minimal supervision and complete tasks assigned in a timely manner

We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes
  • Pay Weekly
  • Health, Vision, & Dental Insurance
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • 401k Plan
  • Paid sick leave in accordance with any applicable state or municipal laws

Why choose GridSource?
GridSource is a full-service utility contractor specializing in construction for the telecommunication and broadband industries, and underground construction for the natural gas distribution industry in the country. Here at GridSource, we understand any company is only as good as its employees and our employees are the most important part of our company. When becoming an employee at GridSource, you are part of a team that looks out for your best interests. Our leadership team is passionate about mentoring and setting our employees up for success!
GridSource is a proud supporter of our U.S. military, veterans, and their families - Thank You for Your Service! Active military, transitioning service members, and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply.
GridSource strives to hire, recruit, and promote associates without regard to race, color, gender, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, or veteran's status. GridSource is an Affirmative Action Equal Opportunity Employer. GridSource will make reasonable accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.