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Underground Utility Contractor Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Midwest Contracting Inc

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Senior Project Manager - Commercial Underground Wet Utilities

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Midwest Contracting Inc | Chandler, AZ | Full-Time | $120,000 - $150,000 per year About Us Midwest Contracting Inc is a growing commercial underground utility contractor serving the greater Phoenix ...

Midwest Contracting Inc

Be Seen First

Senior Project Manager - Commercial Underground Wet Utilities

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Midwest Contracting Inc | Chandler, AZ | Full-Time | $120,000 - $150,000 per year About Us Midwest Contracting Inc is a growing commercial underground utility contractor serving the greater Phoenix ...

EPS Group

Utility Locate & Vacuum Excavation Tech

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$16 - $19.75/hr

Locating and marking underground utilities * Performing safe "potholing" and utility verification ... Collaborate with construction teams, contractors, and project managers to convey accurate ...

Pimacounty

Utility Locator - Transportation

Tucson, AZ

$21.76 - $25.56/hr

Identifies and marks the physical location and path of underground utilities owned, operated, or ... Communicates policies, procedures and regulatory requirements to contractors and the public ...

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Underground Utility Contractor information

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$9

$18

$30

How much do underground utility contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground utility contractor in Arizona is $18.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $20.82 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.
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For Underground Utility Contractor jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Underground Utility Contractor jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Underground Utility Contractor job openings:

Underground Utility Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Underground Utility Contractor job openings in Arizona 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 $38,234 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Senior Project Manager - Commercial Underground Wet Utilities

Chandler, AZ • On-site

Midwest Contracting Inc
See more jobs at Midwest Contracting Incexternal

$120K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 17 days ago

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Job description

Midwest Contracting Inc | Chandler, AZ | Full-Time | $120,000 – $150,000 per year

About Us


Midwest Contracting Inc is a growing commercial underground utility contractor serving the greater Phoenix metro area. We specialize in wet utility construction — water, sewer, storm drain, and fire line systems — for commercial, industrial, and municipal projects. We take pride in delivering safe, on-time, on-budget work, and we're looking for a proven leader to help us keep that reputation as we grow.

The Role


We're seeking an experienced Senior Project Manager to take full ownership of commercial underground wet utility projects from award through closeout. Reporting to the Operations Manager, you'll manage your own portfolio of projects while leading and mentoring a team of two Project Managers. You'll also serve as the final set of eyes on bids before they go out the door. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who knows the dirt side of the business, can run projects profitably, and is ready to develop the next generation of project leaders.


What You'll Do

  • Lead, mentor, and oversee a team of two Project Managers — reviewing their project performance, budgets, and schedules, and supporting their professional development
  • Manage your own portfolio of commercial wet utility projects (water, sewer, storm drain, fire lines) from preconstruction through final acceptance
  • Own project budgets, forecasts, cost tracking, and monthly billings; drive profitability on every job
  • Develop and maintain project schedules; coordinate crews, equipment, subcontractors, and material deliveries to keep work on track
  • Review plans, specs, and geotechnical reports; identify conflicts, constructability issues, and change order opportunities
  • Prepare, negotiate, and manage change orders, RFIs, and submittals
  • Build strong working relationships with general contractors, owners, engineers, inspectors, and city/municipal agencies
  • Coordinate utility locates, permits, traffic control plans, SWPPP compliance, and dust control requirements
  • Partner with superintendents and foremen on production planning, manpower, and equipment needs
  • Enforce company safety standards and ensure OSHA and trench safety compliance on every site
  • Report to the Operations Manager on project performance, forecasts, and team status
  • Provide final review and sign-off on bids before submission — vetting scope, pricing, and risk with the estimating team


What We're Looking For

  • 8+ years of project management experience in underground wet utilities, heavy civil, or sitework construction (commercial projects strongly preferred)
  • Deep knowledge of wet utility systems: water lines, sanitary sewer, storm drain, fire lines, and related structures
  • Prior experience leading or mentoring other project managers or project engineers
  • Proven track record managing project budgets of $1M+ and delivering profitable results
  • Estimating or bid review experience — able to spot scope gaps, pricing risks, and constructability issues before a bid goes out
  • Strong command of scheduling, cost control, change order management, and contract administration
  • Working knowledge of MAG specifications and Arizona municipal permitting processes a plus
  • Experience with trench safety, shoring, dewatering, and OSHA excavation standards
  • Proficiency with project management and scheduling software (e.g., Procore, HCSS, MS Project, Bluebeam)
  • Excellent communication and negotiation skills; able to represent the company professionally with GCs, owners, and agencies
  • Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field preferred — equivalent field experience welcomed
  • Valid driver's license and clean driving record
  • OSHA 30 certification a plus


What We Offer

  • Competitive salary: $120,000 – $150,000 per year, based on experience
  • Performance-based bonus opportunities
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off and paid holidays
  • Company truck and fuel allowance
  • Stable, growing company with a strong project backlog and room for advancement

Company Description

Midwest Contracting Inc is a mid sized underground wet utility and civil commercial contractor delivering high-quality infrastructure projects across the Midwest. We take pride in building the systems that communities depend on — from water and sewer to storm drainage and site utilities. Our team is hands-on, tight-knit, and committed to getting the work done right.