ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Underground Utilities Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsUnderground Utilities JobsUnderground Utilities Jobs in Iowa

Underground Utilities information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$17

$25

How much do underground utilities jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground utilities in Iowa is $17.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do underground utilities workers make?

Underground utilities workers typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled workers with specialized training or certifications can earn higher wages, especially in areas with high demand for infrastructure projects.

What is the difference between Underground Utilities vs Cable Installer?

AspectUnderground UtilitiesCable Installer
Required CredentialsOSHA safety training, CDL (if applicable), technical certificationsOSHA safety training, technical certifications, sometimes CDL
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, underground trenches, outdoor environmentsResidential/commercial buildings, outdoor and indoor locations
Industry UsageUtilities, construction, infrastructure projectsTelecommunications, cable TV, internet service providers

Underground Utilities workers focus on installing, repairing, and maintaining underground infrastructure like water, sewer, and electrical lines in outdoor construction environments. Cable Installers primarily work on installing and maintaining cable and internet services in various locations. While both roles require safety training and technical skills, their work environments and industry applications differ significantly.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in underground utilities, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in underground utilities often encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, dealing with unpredictable soil conditions, and accurately identifying existing utility lines to prevent damage. These challenges are typically managed through rigorous safety training, the use of advanced detection and mapping technology, and close coordination with team members and local authorities. Strong emphasis is placed on adherence to safety protocols and clear communication, ensuring both the safety of workers and the integrity of utility infrastructure.

What are underground utilities?

Underground utilities refer to the network of essential services that are installed below ground, such as water pipes, sewage systems, electrical cables, gas lines, and telecommunications infrastructure. These utilities are crucial for delivering services to homes, businesses, and public spaces. Workers in this field are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing these systems to ensure they function safely and efficiently. Proper mapping and marking of underground utilities are also important to prevent accidental damage during construction or excavation projects.

How to become an underground utilities contractor?

To become an underground utilities contractor, you typically need to gain experience in construction or utility installation, obtain relevant licenses or permits required by your state or local authorities, and often complete specialized training or certifications in underground utility work. Developing skills in operating excavation equipment and understanding safety protocols is also essential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in underground utilities, and why are they important?

To thrive in Underground Utilities, you need a solid understanding of utility mapping, excavation safety, and construction practices, often supported by relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training. Familiarity with equipment like pipe locators, trenchers, and utility mapping software is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and attention to detail help individuals excel in navigating complex sites and ensuring safety. These skills and qualifications are vital for preventing accidents, minimizing service disruptions, and maintaining regulatory compliance on job sites.
What are popular job titles related to Underground Utilities jobs in Iowa? For Underground Utilities jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Underground Utilities jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Underground Utilities jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Underground Utilities jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Underground Utilities job openings:
Underground Utilities jobs near you
Infographic showing various Underground Utilities job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,992 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Underground Utility Locator

Vannguard Utility Partners

Council Bluffs, IA • On-site

$22.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 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


Great Opportunity for Outdoor Work and Freedom!

Salary: $22.75 per hour
We are recruiting Underground Utility Locators in your area for a rewarding career!
Vannguard is currently seeking new team members with the right attitude in a drug-free environment.
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, comfortable working on their own, pays close attention to detail, 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, 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 a 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 the 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.

Education:

  • High school or equivalent (Required)

License:

  • Driver's License (Required)

Work Location:

  • Multiple locations

This Job Is:

  • A job for which military-experienced candidates are encouraged to apply

Job Type: Full-time
COVID-19 considerations: This position is outdoors and involves minimal contact and interaction with others.

Salary: $22.75 per hour


Benefits:

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

Compensation package:

  • Hourly pay
  • Overtime pay

Physical setting:

  • Outdoor work

Schedule:

  • 10 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday
  • On call
  • Overtime

Experience:

  • Computer skills: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Utility locating: 1 year (Preferred)

What Vannguard Utility Partners employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom