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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Underground Locators often encounter challenges such as interpreting outdated or inaccurate utility maps, dealing with adverse weather conditions, and identifying utilities in congested or high-traffic areas.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

Timmons Group

Newport News, VA

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Timmons Group rating

9.7

Company rating: 9.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 447 rated engineering

Job description

Job Description

Timmons Group is currently seeking an Underground Utility Locator to join our Survey Group located in our Newport News, VA office location. 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 candidate.

Essential duties and Responsibilities of a successful candidate include but are not limited to:

  • Provides underground utility flagging “designation” with proficiency utilizing electromagnet equipment and other geophysical means
  • Designates all utility line types of conductive or non-conductive materials including water, sewer, gas, electric, fiber optic, PVC, and all other underground facilities that would affect an excavation of a site
  • Marks utilities with flags and/or paint and produce a sketch of results for future use by the client
  • May be required to learn how to establish survey control and perform locations of utility designation markings using conventional survey equipment including robotic total stations and RTK GPS technology
  • Oversees maintenance of survey equipment, supplies and vehicle
  • Candidate must be able to work in a team environment, and be willing to work independently on occasion

Skills/Requirements of a successful candidate include but are not limited to:

  • High school diploma/GED and five (5) years of SUE designation and field survey experience is ideal
  • Clear understanding of ASCE 38-02 standards and quality levels and their applications
  • Experience with robotic total stations, data collectors and GPS is preferred
  • Must be able to obtain and hold a federal security clearance
  • AutoCAD experience a plus
  • Valid NC driver license and a good driving record required
  • Must be willing to travel on occasion

Compensation: Our best estimate of the salary range for this position is $21/hr.-$28/hr. Offers are based on a range of job-related factors such as internal equity, experience, skills, education, credentials and role complexity.

Additional Information

The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skills and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

We are looking for high energy, creative, flexible, patient, self-starters who are willing to work at a dynamic pace. Candidates must share a commitment to our company’s Vision, Mission and Shared Values.

Timmons Group is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.

Timmons Group is a full-service engineering and technology firm recognized nationally as a “Best Firm to Work For” by CE News. With 21 offices throughout the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast, we provide civil engineering, environmental, economic development, GIS/geospatial technology, landscape architecture, and surveying services to a diverse client base. As one of Engineering News Record’s (ENR) Top 500 Design Firms for over 30 years, we are dedicated to being an employer of choice and providing our people with the best resources, technology, and culture to help them thrive in an engaging career development setting. For more information, visit www.timmons.com. 

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