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Underground Utility Contractor Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Prim

Utility Locator

Denver, CO

$29.19/hr

Q3 Contracting (Q3C), a division of Primoris Services Corporation , is a publicly owned ... Performs safe and accurate locates, locating various types of underground utilities. * Maintains ...

Prim

Plan and Profile Utility Locator

Denver, CO · On-site

$29.19/hr

Q3 Contracting has an immediate opening for a Plan and Profile Utility Locator. The Plan and ... Performs safe and accurate locates, locating of various types of underground utilities. * Maintains ...

El Paso County (CO)

Inspector I/II/III

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$72K - $109K/yr

... contractors, testers, utility companies, and surveyors. Ensures projects proceed in accordance with the County's stormwater quality permit requirements. Completes CO811 Underground Facility Locate ...

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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 Aug 10, 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.

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 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 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.
More about Underground Utility Contractor jobs
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:
Underground Utility Contractor jobs near you
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.

Senior Heavy Civil Estimator

Kimmel & Associates

Denver, CO • On-site

$130K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

About the Company

The company is a highly respected heavy civil contractor with over 100 years of success delivering complex infrastructure projects across the central and western United States. The company has built a strong reputation for excellence in DOT transportation work, consistently executing large-scale, technically challenging highway and infrastructure projects.

With deep expertise in mass earthwork, underground utilities, structures, and site development, they serve both public agencies and private clients. The company is known for its long-standing relationships with state and federal partners, as well as its commitment to investing in its people through career development and growth opportunities.

This position supports a strategic expansion initiative focused on DOT highway and concrete paving (white paving) projects across Wyoming, Nebraska, and surrounding regions.

About the Position

The Senior Estimator will play a key role in the company's continued growth, leading the preparation of competitive and accurate cost estimates for complex heavy civil projects, with a strong emphasis on underground wet utilities.

This role requires a detail-oriented professional with strong technical expertise in estimating large-diameter pipeline and infrastructure work, as well as the ability to collaborate across departments to support successful project pursuits.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Prepare detailed and competitive cost estimates for heavy civil construction projects
  • Review project drawings, specifications, and bid documents to define scope of work
  • Perform comprehensive quantity takeoffs for underground utility systems (water, sewer, storm)
  • Develop accurate cost models for labor, equipment, and materials
  • Maintain and update estimating cost databases to reflect current market conditions
  • Analyze design options and recommend cost-effective and constructible solutions
  • Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier bids
  • Collaborate with operations, project management, and leadership teams during bid development
  • Support strategic bidding efforts tied to regional growth initiatives

Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field (or equivalent experience)
  • Minimum 7 years of estimating experience in heavy civil construction
  • Strong expertise in underground wet utilities (water, sewer, storm drain systems, pump stations)
  • Experience estimating projects ranging from $2M to $100M+
  • Proficiency with HCSS HeavyBid (required)
  • Experience estimating large-diameter pipeline construction
  • Familiarity with:
    • Trimble Business Center
    • Bluebeam
    • Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook
    • Primavera P6
    • BuildingConnected
    • Viewpoint

Benefits

  • Competitive base salary ($130,000-$175,000)
  • Performance-based bonus opportunities
  • Comprehensive benefits package:
    • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
    • 401(k) with 6% company match
    • Profit sharing
    • Paid holidays and generous PTO
  • Long-term career growth with structured development and mentorship
  • Opportunity to join a stable, century-strong industry leader
Employment Type: FULL_TIME
Kimmel & Associates logo

About Kimmel & Associates

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Kimmel & Associates, based in Asheville, NC, US, is recognized as the premier leader in the executive search and recruitment industry. The company, in operation since 1981, serves numerous industries including construction, supply chain, waste, and recycling, specialty contractors, and private equity. Utilizing their exceptional knowledge and robust industry connections, they assist clients by filling crucial executive and managerial roles that directly impact business performance and growth. The company is guided by a strong corporate philosophy centered on respect, listening, humility, and continuous improvement. Their mission is to foster enduring relationships and to help industries thrive by connecting the brightest talent with superior companies.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Asheville, NC, US

Year founded

1981

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