ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Underground Locator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Underground Systems Inc

Utility Locator

Eau Claire, WI · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Must possess knowledge of underground utility locating equipment. Communicates with the Foreman and ... As the Utility Locator often works alone, the employee is expected to exercise considerable self ...

New

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 ...

Timmons Group

Underground Utility Locator

Richmond, VA · On-site

$21 - $28/hr

The Underground Utility Locator assists the survey crew by locating and marking underground utilities for various projects. This position can be an in-office and field combination for the right ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsUnderground Locator Jobs

Underground Locator information

See salary details

$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 Utility Locator

Vannguard Utility Partners

Conway, AR

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Vannguard Utility Partners rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description


Underground Utility Locator

Would you enjoy a company vehicle, save on gas money, and work outside?

Due to company growth, we are recruiting Underground Utility Locators in your area.

Vannguard is currently seeking new team members with the right attitude in a drug free environment for a critical infrastructure position.

Our Underground Utility Locators are responsible, self-motivated individuals who enjoy the freedom of working outdoors. We will train the right individual who is committed to safety, making a difference in the construction community and takes pride in completing a job well done.

Our Underground Utility Locators drive a company vehicle to job sites and use computer utility maps along with specialized equipment to find underground cables, pipes and other underground utilities to prevent damages and ensure safety within the excavation, general labor, landscaping and construction community.

Problem-solvers who are not afraid of hard work and know that quality is their priority should consider a career as an Underground Utility Locator with Vannguard Utility Partners Inc.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Drive company vehicle directly from home to job sites in response to routine ticket requests, emergencies, and relocates.

Utilizes the provided mapping tools and other location information, along with locating equipment, to locate underground utilities including, but not limited to: electric and gas utilities telephone and other communication lines.

Indicates utility locations through the utilization of paint, flags, and communicates other relevant information to excavation personnel or other appropriate authorities.

Responds to after-hours emergency call-outs in accordance with the established rotation schedule.

Benefits Include:

Company Vehicle

Paid Training

Competitive Wages

Dental, Health and Life Insurance

401(k)

Paid vacation

Overtime

Required Knowledge, Skills and Attitude:

Computer Skills

Valid driver's license in applicable state of employment.

Must be able to work overtime when duties cannot be performed within a normal work schedule.

Will be subject to Vannguard's Drug-Free Workplace Program, and complete a pre-employment drug screening.

Able to self-manage and communicate with supervisors and clients in a timely manner.

Physical Demands: While performing the duties of this job, employees regularly:

Drive 50 to 300+ miles daily as required by assigned geographic locating area.

Get in and out of a vehicle 50+ times a day.

Stand and walk lengthy distances (1+ miles) over uneven terrain in all weather conditions.

Sit for long periods of time while driving.

Lift and/or move 50 to 150 pounds.

Work outdoors in all weather conditions.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $20.00 per hour

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: From $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible schedule
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off

Schedule:

  • 10 hour shift
  • 12 hour shift
  • 8 hour shift
  • Day shift
  • Monday to Friday
  • On call
  • Overtime
  • Weekend availability

Application Question(s):

  • Criminal Background Check

Education:

  • High school or equivalent (Required)

License/Certification:

  • Driver's License (Required)

Work Location: Multiple locations

What Vannguard Utility Partners employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom