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Underground Utility Contractor Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Blue Streak LLC 1

Utility Drop Locator

Selma, AL · On-site

$25/hr

Essential Duties and Responsibilities Underground Utility Locating * Utilize electromagnetic ... Communicate with contractors, excavators, homeowners, and utility representatives regarding utility ...

Blue Streak LLC 1

Utility Drop Locator

Selma, AL · On-site

$25/hr

Essential Duties and Responsibilities Underground Utility Locating * Utilize electromagnetic ... Communicate with contractors, excavators, homeowners, and utility representatives regarding utility ...

City of Fairhope (AL)

UTILITY LINE LOCATOR

Fairhope, AL

$18 - $20.74/hr

The employee interacts with contractors, surveyors, and customers to determine and verify utility ... Locates underground gas lines. Utilizes electronic detection equipment to locate underground ...

City of Fairhope, AL

UTILITY LINE LOCATOR

Fairhope, AL · On-site

$18 - $20.74/hr

The employee interacts with contractors, surveyors, and customers to determine and verify utility ... Locates underground gas lines. Utilizes electronic detection equipment to locate underground ...

Inframark

Utility Locator

Opelika, AL · On-site

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

Locates underground utility lines specified by the client. * Interpret job order tickets, email ... Communicates clearly & professionally when interacting with homeowners, contractors, and utility ...

SAIIA

Mid-Senior Level Estimator

Birmingham, AL · On-site

... and underground utility projects. Company Overview Founded by Sam Saiia as Birmingham Excavating Co. in 1946, the company now known as Saiia Construction is an industrial heavy civil contractor of ...

SAIIA

Mid-Senior Level Estimator

Birmingham, AL

... and underground utility projects. Company Overview Founded by Sam Saiia as Birmingham Excavating Co. in 1946, the company now known as Saiia Construction is an industrial heavy civil contractor of ...

SAIIA

Mid-Senior Level Estimator

Birmingham, AL · On-site

... and underground utility projects. Company Overview Founded by Sam Saiia as Birmingham Excavating Co. in 1946, the company now known as Saiia Construction is an industrial heavy civil contractor of ...

CEI Services

Mid-Senior Level Estimator

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$90 - $140/hr

... and underground utility projects. Company Overview Founded by Sam Saiia as Birmingham Excavating Co. in 1946, the company now known as Saiia Construction is an industrial heavy civil contractor of ...

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All JobsUnderground Utility Contractor JobsUnderground Utility Contractor Jobs in Alabama

Underground Utility Contractor information

See Alabama salary details

$9

$17

$29

How much do underground utility contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground utility contractor in Alabama is $17.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $20.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an underground utility contractor?

Underground utility contractors are specialized professionals or companies responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing utility lines that run below the ground, such as water, sewer, gas, electric, and telecommunications lines. They use a range of equipment and techniques to safely excavate, lay pipes or cables, and restore the surface area upon completion. Their work is essential to ensure the safe and reliable delivery of vital services to homes, businesses, and public infrastructure. These contractors must adhere to strict safety regulations and often coordinate with municipalities, utility companies, and other construction professionals.

What does an underground utility contractor do?

As an underground utility contractor, your job is to help install and repair sewer and water lines. In this role, you may participate in the excavation of land for pipes, install temporary pipes to minimize disruptions while installing permanent lines, and help address urgent problems like water main breaks. An underground utility contractor usually works on a temporary basis, either helping for a fixed period or the duration of a single project. Contracts may be extended based on the needs of the employer, and many contractors work to form relationships with various utility companies in the area to ensure a steady supply of jobs. This job occasionally involves working around hazardous materials, such as gas pipes or exposed sewage.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an underground utility contractor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Underground Utility Contractor, you need strong knowledge of construction practices, blueprint reading, and regulatory compliance, often supported by relevant certifications or a background in civil engineering or construction management. Familiarity with heavy machinery, utility locating equipment, and safety systems such as OSHA protocols is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help manage complex projects and coordinate with crews and clients. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure safe, efficient installation and maintenance of underground utilities while minimizing project risks and delays.

What are some common challenges faced by underground utility contractors on job sites?

Underground utility contractors often encounter challenges such as unexpected utility line locations, varying soil conditions, and inclement weather, all of which can impact project timelines and safety. Coordinating with multiple teams, including engineers, inspectors, and local authorities, is essential to ensure that installations are accurate and compliant with regulations. Staying updated on the latest safety protocols and using advanced detection equipment can help mitigate risks and prevent costly delays.

What is the difference between Underground Utility Contractor vs Excavation Worker?

AspectUnderground Utility ContractorExcavation Worker
CredentialsLicenses, certifications in utility installationBasic OSHA training, possibly some excavation certifications
Work EnvironmentUnderground sites, utility lines, trenchesOpen trenches, construction sites, surface excavation
Industry UsageUtility installation, infrastructure projectsGeneral excavation, site preparation

Underground Utility Contractors focus on installing and repairing underground utilities like water, sewer, and electrical lines, often requiring specialized certifications. Excavation Workers perform general digging and site preparation, sometimes assisting utility work but with broader responsibilities. While both roles involve excavation, the utility contractor specializes in underground infrastructure, making their skills and certifications more specific to utility projects.

How much does an underground utility contractor make?

Underground utility contractors typically earn an average annual salary ranging from $50,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Skilled workers with certifications and experience in excavation, trenching, and safety protocols may earn higher wages, especially in high-demand areas or specialized roles.

How to become an underground utility contractor?

To become an underground utility contractor, you typically need a combination of relevant experience in excavation and utility installation, a valid contractor's license, and knowledge of safety regulations. Many contractors start as laborers or apprentices to gain skills before obtaining necessary certifications and licenses required in their region.
More about Underground Utility Contractor jobs

What are popular job titles related to Underground Utility Contractor jobs in Alabama?

For Underground Utility Contractor jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Underground Utility Contractor jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Underground Utility Contractor jobs in Alabama are:

Underground Utility Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Underground Utility Contractor job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,188 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Utility Drop Locator

Blue Streak Telecommunications LLC

Selma, AL • On-site

$25/hr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
The Utility Drop Locator is responsible for identifying, locating, and marking underground utility infrastructure prior to excavation and construction activities. Using specialized electronic locating equipment, utility maps, GIS data, and 811 locate tickets, this role helps prevent damage to telecommunications, electrical, gas, and water facilities while ensuring public safety and regulatory compliance. The position requires extensive outdoor fieldwork, independent decision-making, and the ability to work in varying weather and terrain conditions.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Underground Utility Locating
  • Utilize electromagnetic locating equipment, transmitters, receivers, and ground-penetrating radar to accurately detect and identify buried utility drops and main lines.
  • Determine the horizontal path and location of underground telecommunications, electric, gas, and water facilities.
  • Verify utility placement using maps, records, and field observations.

Utility Marking and Identification
  • Clearly mark utility locations using paint, flags, and other marking tools in accordance with APWA (American Public Works Association) color-code standards.
  • Ensure all utility markings are accurate, visible, and properly documented prior to excavation activities.
  • Maintain compliance with state and local damage prevention regulations.

Research and Map Interpretation
  • Interpret as-built drawings, construction plans, utility records, GIS mapping systems, and infrastructure documentation.
  • Research historical utility placement and installation records when necessary to determine utility alignment and location.
  • Analyze complex field conditions to resolve locating challenges.

Documentation and Customer Communication
  • Complete field tickets, locate reports, and electronic records accurately and timely.
  • Capture photographs and maintain detailed documentation of completed locate activities.
  • Communicate with contractors, excavators, homeowners, and utility representatives regarding utility locations, safety requirements, and excavation procedures.
  • Provide updates and status reports through company systems and mobile applications.

Emergency and Priority Response
  • Respond promptly to emergency locate requests, damage investigations, and high-priority tickets.
  • Assist in locating utilities during service interruptions or outage-related incidents.
  • Work collaboratively with operations teams to minimize risk and service disruptions.

Required Qualifications
Education
  • High school diploma, GED, or equivalent required.

Licenses and Certifications
  • Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record.
  • Ability to safely operate a company vehicle while traveling between job sites throughout Alabama.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
  • Basic computer proficiency, including mobile applications, GPS, mapping systems, and electronic documentation tools.
  • Ability to read and interpret utility maps, blueprints, construction plans, and GIS data.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong problem-solving and organizational abilities.
  • Ability to work independently while maintaining productivity and quality standards.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, and traverse uneven terrain for extended periods.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and humidity.
  • Ability to lift, carry, and operate equipment weighing up to 50 to 80 pounds.
  • Ability to safely enter construction sites, residential properties, easements, and rights-of-way.
  • Ability to visually identify utility markings, equipment displays, and field hazards.

Work Environment
  • Primarily field-based position with daily travel to residential, commercial, and construction sites.
  • Regular exposure to traffic, construction equipment, noise, dust, and environmental hazards.
  • Work performed in all seasons and weather conditions.
  • Requires operation of a company vehicle and frequent travel between assigned service locations.

Key Success Factors
  • Accuracy and quality of utility locates.
  • Timely completion and closure of locate tickets.
  • Compliance with safety standards and damage prevention regulations.
  • Effective communication with customers, contractors, and stakeholders.
  • Ability to manage workload and respond to emergency requests efficiently.
  • Reduction of utility damages and service interruptions through precise locating practices.

Reports To: Operations Supervisor / Field Operations Manager
Travel Requirement: Daily local travel within assigned service territory in Alabama.

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