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Underground Utility Contractor Jobs in California

Omni Underground, inc.

General Laborer

Fowler, CA

$28/hr

Skid steers * Mini excavators About Company Omni Underground is an underground utility contractor specializing in directional drilling, joint trench construction, and full turnkey utility ...

TAK Broadband

Underground Utility Foreman

Fairfield, CA · On-site

$32 - $35/hr

S. fiber broadband network construction contractor operating in 42 states. It builds more than just ... Lead and supervise crews performing underground electric utility construction, including trenching ...

TAK Broadband

Underground Utility Foreman

Fairfield, CA

$32 - $35/hr

S. fiber broadband network construction contractor operating in 42 states. It builds more than just ... Lead and supervise crews performing underground electric utility construction, including trenching ...

TAK Broadband

Underground Utility Foreman

Fairfield, CA · On-site

$32 - $35/hr

S. fiber broadband network construction contractor operating in 42 states. It builds more than just ... Lead and supervise crews performing underground electric utility construction, including trenching ...

Motive Companies

Utility Locator

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

The Utility Locator plays a crucial role in ensuring that underground utilities are accurately ... Communicate effectively with contractors, clients, and team members regarding utility locations and ...

Motive Companies

Utility Locator

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

The Utility Locator plays a crucial role in ensuring that underground utilities are accurately ... Communicate effectively with contractors, clients, and team members regarding utility locations and ...

Motive Companies

Utility Locator

Oceanside, CA

$20 - $25/hr

The Utility Locator plays a crucial role in ensuring that underground utilities are accurately ... Communicate effectively with contractors, clients, and team members regarding utility locations and ...

TE Roberts Inc

Underground Wet Utility Foreman

Irvine, CA · On-site

$30 - $60/hr

The Underground Utility Foreman position is a hands-on role focused on managing construction ... Ability to work effectively with contractors and other stakeholders * Ability to manage budgets and ...

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All JobsUnderground Utility Contractor JobsUnderground Utility Contractor Jobs in California

Underground Utility Contractor information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$32

How much do underground utility contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground utility contractor in California is $19.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $22.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the field of underground utility contracting, high-paying roles such as project managers, executive-level supervisors, or business owners can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, large-scale projects, and specialized skills. These positions often require advanced certifications, strong leadership abilities, and a track record of successful project delivery in the construction and utility sectors.

What are underground utility contractors?

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 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.

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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Underground utility contractors can earn around $4,000 per week through skilled work such as trenching, installing underground lines, and operating heavy equipment. These roles often require experience, physical fitness, and sometimes certifications like OSHA training, but typically do not require a college degree. High-paying construction and skilled trade jobs can also reach this income level with experience and specialization.

How much does an underground utility worker make?

Underground utility workers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled workers with specialized knowledge of excavation, safety protocols, and equipment operation tend to earn higher wages.
More about Underground Utility Contractor jobs
What are popular job titles related to Underground Utility Contractor jobs in California? For Underground Utility Contractor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Underground Utility Contractor jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Underground Utility Contractor jobs in California are:
Underground Utility Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Underground Utility Contractor job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 75% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,491 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Wet Utility Project Manager

LVI Associates

San Diego, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Our client is a well-established underground utility contractor seeking a Wet Utility Project Manager to join their growing team in San Diego, California. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated construction professional who is passionate about delivering complex underground infrastructure projects and advancing their career with a respected contractor.

The Project Manager will be responsible for overseeing the successful planning, execution, and completion of underground utility projects involving water, sewer, and storm drain systems throughout the San Diego region.

Assistant Project Managers and Senior Project Engineers with strong wet utility construction experience are encouraged to apply.


Responsibilities
  • Manage underground wet utility construction projects from award through closeout.
  • Develop and maintain project schedules, budgets, and forecasts.
  • Coordinate with owners, municipalities, subcontractors, vendors, inspectors, and field personnel.
  • Review project plans, specifications, contracts, and bid documents.
  • Track project costs, production, labor, equipment, and materials.
  • Manage change orders, RFIs, submittals, and procurement activities.
  • Ensure projects are completed safely, on schedule, within budget, and in accordance with quality standards.
  • Support project estimators and field leadership during project startup and execution.
  • Attend project meetings and maintain strong client relationships.
  • Assist with project planning, manpower forecasting, and resource allocation.

Qualifications
  • 3-5 years of recent experience managing underground wet utility construction projects.
  • Demonstrated experience working on:
    • Water distribution systems
    • Water transmission pipelines
    • Sewer collection systems
    • Storm drain systems
  • Strong understanding of underground utility construction means and methods.
  • Experience with public works, municipal, and/or private development projects.
  • Ability to read and interpret plans, specifications, contracts, and schedules.
  • Knowledge of project budgeting, cost control, forecasting, and change management.
  • Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and construction management software such as Procore, Bluebeam, HCSS, Spectrum, or similar platforms.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
  • Experience managing projects for cities, counties, water districts, and other public agencies.
  • Understanding of California public works practices, prevailing wage requirements, and utility agency standards.

Why Join?
  • Competitive base salary
  • Annual bonus opportunities
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Vehicle allowance or company vehicle
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • Long-term career growth opportunities
  • Stable backlog of underground utility work throughout Southern California

If you are a Project Manager, Assistant Project Manager, or Senior Project Engineer with a strong background in water, sewer, and storm drain construction, we encourage you to apply and take the next step in your career with a leading underground utility contractor in San Diego.


Company Description

LVI Associates exists to enable exceptional careers around the world; we connect exceptional talent, with exceptional opportunities.
We believe that every professional should benefit from the advice of a trusted partner throughout their career.
We provide that partnership to mid to senior level professionals within the Energy, Environmental & Infrastructure spaces through our network of micro-specialist consultants.
Each team within LVI Associates focuses on a specialist area of Energy & Infrastructure. I specialise in sourcing and placing senior level candidates within the bridges and highway construction spaces.
Make LVI Associates your career partner; ensure your career journey is exceptional.