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Underground Utility Contractor Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Laborer (Underground Utility)

Denver, CO · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Q3 Contracting (Q3C), a division of Primoris Services Corporation , is a publicly owned ... We are actively hiring laborers specializing in underground dry utility at Q3 Contracting Inc. This ...

Laborer (Underground Utility)

Denver, CO · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Q3 Contracting (Q3C), a division of Primoris Services Corporation , is a publicly owned ... We are actively hiring laborers specializing in underground dry utility at Q3 Contracting Inc. This ...

Be Seen First

Reaper Siteworks is a commercial excavation and underground utility contractor officed in Palmer Lake, CO and servicing projects from South Denver to Colorado Springs. We are a young company focused ...

General Foreman (Underground)

Denver, CO · On-site

$42.71 - $43.71/hr

... utility, energy, and renewables markets throughout the United States and Canada. Q3 Contracting ... We are seeking an experienced and safety-driven General Foreman to oversee underground gas ...

Locate Technician

Lakewood, CO

$20 - $27.25/hr

Locate and mark underground utilities such as gas, water, electric, and telecommunications lines ... Communicate effectively with contractors, utility companies, and other stakeholders to coordinate ...

Locate Technician

Minturn, CO · On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

Locate and mark underground utilities such as gas, water, electric, and telecommunications lines ... Communicate effectively with contractors, utility companies, and other stakeholders to coordinate ...

Locate Technician

Minturn, CO

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

Locate and mark underground utilities such as gas, water, electric, and telecommunications lines ... Communicate effectively with contractors, utility companies, and other stakeholders to coordinate ...

Locate Technician

Rifle, CO

$21.25 - $29/hr

Locate and mark underground utilities such as gas, water, electric, and telecommunications lines ... Communicate effectively with contractors, utility companies, and other stakeholders to coordinate ...

Locate Technician

Rifle, CO · On-site

$21.25 - $29/hr

Locate and mark underground utilities such as gas, water, electric, and telecommunications lines ... Communicate effectively with contractors, utility companies, and other stakeholders to coordinate ...

Locate Technician

Dillon, CO

$20 - $27.25/hr

Locate and mark underground utilities such as gas, water, electric, and telecommunications lines ... Communicate effectively with contractors, utility companies, and other stakeholders to coordinate ...

Locate Technician

Denver, CO

$20.50 - $28/hr

Locate and mark underground utilities such as gas, water, electric, and telecommunications lines ... Communicate effectively with contractors, utility companies, and other stakeholders to coordinate ...

Locate Technician

Lakewood, CO · On-site

$20 - $27.25/hr

Locate and mark underground utilities such as gas, water, electric, and telecommunications lines ... Communicate effectively with contractors, utility companies, and other stakeholders to coordinate ...

Locate Technician

Eagle, CO · On-site

$21 - $28.50/hr

Locate and mark underground utilities such as gas, water, electric, and telecommunications lines ... Communicate effectively with contractors, utility companies, and other stakeholders to coordinate ...

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Underground Utility Contractor information

See Colorado salary details

$10

$20

$34

How much do underground utility contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground utility contractor in Colorado is $20.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $23.51 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.

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Underground Utility Contractor job openings in Colorado 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 $43,142 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Locator - Underground Utility Investigator - Wastewater Management

Denver

Denver, CO

$23.89 - $35.84/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

About Our Job

With competitive pay, great benefits, and endless opportunities, working for the City and County of Denver means seeing yourself working with purpose - for you, and those who benefit from your passion, skills and expertise. Join our diverse, inclusive and talented workforce of more than 11,000 team members who are at the heart of what makes Denver, Denver.

What We Offer

The City and County of Denver offers competitive pay commensurate with education and experience. The salary range for this position is $23.89 - $35.84. We also offer generous benefits for full-time employees which include but are not limited to:

  • A guaranteed life-long monthly pension, once vested after 5 years of service

  • 457B Retirement Plan

  • 140 hours of PTO earned within first year + 12 paid holidays, 1 personal holiday, 1 Wellness Day, and 1 volunteer day per year

  • Competitive medical, dental and vision plans effective within 1 month of start date

Location & Schedule

Employees work where needed, at a job site several days a week and off-site as needed. In this position you can expect to report to work Monday - Friday from 06:00 am to 02:30 pm and an on-call rotation. Employees can start and end their days remotely. A take-home vehicle to be used for work purposes is provided.

Who We Are & What You'll Do

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI), through its employees, enhances the quality of life in Denver by efficiently delivering effective, high quality, safe and equitable public infrastructure, and services. For more information, please visit the DOTI website.

DOTI's Commitment to Equity:

  • DOTI is committed to providing attention and resources to the areas, assets and people of the city with the greatest need. Through equitable contracting, equitable investments, and equitable workforce development.

  • DOTI's culture revolves around four key principles: (1) Invest in Our People, (2) Operate with Discipline, (3) Use Data to Drive Decisions, and (4) Deliver Results.

The DOTI Utilities Locates Team, with the Wastewater Management division, is seeking a full-time Locator - Underground Utility Investigator to join their team.

Specifically, as a Locator - Underground Utility Investigator, duties would include:

  • Receive underground utility locate tickets generated by Colorado 811 regarding City owned utilities, process tickets prior to the due date and time.

  • Distinguish city owned utilities from other utilities, reporting covered manholes and maps that need corrections.

  • Locates publicly owned underground utilities pertaining to sanitary and storm sewers, electrical and fiber optics conduits, water supply lines and service lines and natural gas pipes.

  • Lifting manhole covers and vault lids.

  • Assists in ensuring safe working conditions by helping to control and monitor traffic.

  • Manage utility locate requests by sorting tickets, entering data, monitoring expiring tickets and sending responses by the due date.

  • Must be able to distinguish between colors to properly color code utilities and interpret markings.

  • Perform duties including answering telephone inquiries and working closely with others in a team-oriented environment.

  • Performs mathematical computations to determine utility locations

  • Operates city vehicle to drive to locate requests within the City and County of Denver

  • Work standby on a rotating basis and during that time be available to respond to emergency calls 24 hours a day including weekends and holidays.

  • Provide customer service to external and internal stakeholders

  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

What You'll Bring

Our ideal candidate has some or all the following experience, skills, and characteristics:

  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and GIS maps

  • Prior experience locating fiber, electric, water, sewers (sanitary and storm) and gas.

  • Underground utilities locating experience

  • Experience with application software and intermediate computer skills

  • Willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions

  • Ability to be on call on a rotational basis during non-work hours

  • Desire to work independently and as a team

Required Minimum Qualifications
  • Education requirement: Graduation from high school or the possession of a GED, HiSET or TASC Certificate.

  • Experience Requirement: Two (2) years' experience interpreting blueprints, maps and construction drawings, and/or installing underground utilities with a preference to having experience locating underground utilities.

  • Education/Experience Equivalency: A combination of appropriate education and experience may be substituted for the minimum education and experience requirements.

  • License/Certifications: Requires a valid Driver's License at the time of application.

  • Licenses and certifications must be kept current as a condition of employment.

Application Deadline

This position is expected to stay open until Thursday, September 10, 2026. Please submit your application as soon as possible and no later than that date at 11:59 p.m. to ensure consideration.

About Everything Else

Job Profile

CN2081 Underground Utility Investigator

To view the full job profile including position specifications, physical demands, and probationary period, click here.

Position Type

Unlimited

Position Salary Range

$23.89 - $35.84

Target Pay

Based on education and experience.

Agency

Dept of Transportation & Infrastructure

Redeployment during Citywide Emergencies

City and County of Denver employees may be re-deployed to work in other capacities in their own agencies or in other city agencies to support core functions of the city during a citywide emergency declared by the Mayor.

The City and County of Denver provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, age, or any other status protected under federal, state, and/or local law.

It is your right to access oral or written language assistance, sign language interpretation, real-time captioning via CART, or disability-related accommodations. To request any of these services at no cost to you, please contact Jobs@Denvergov.org with three business days' notice.

Applicants for employment with the City and County of Denver must have valid work authorization that does not require sponsorship of a visa for employment authorization in the U.S.

For information about right to work, click here for English or here for Spanish.