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Underground Utility Contractor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

City of Fredericksburg

Utility Locator

Fredericksburg, VA · On-site

$42K - $47K/yr

It also involves assisting contractors, builders, surveyors, engineers, and homeowners with city ... Staking University certification in underground utility marking within 12 months of employment.

City of Fredericksburg

Utility Locator

Fredericksburg, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Provide assistance to contractors, builders, surveyors, engineers, and homeowners regarding city ... Staking University certification in underground utility marking within 12 months of employment.

Weider Contracting

Pipe Foreman

Warrenton, VA · On-site

... underground utility field? If so, Weider Contracting has the perfect opportunity for you! Weider Contracting is a growing team of dedicated and hardworking professionals who thrive in challenging ...

Weider Contracting

Pipe Foreman

Warrenton, VA · On-site

... underground utility field? If so, Weider Contracting has the perfect opportunity for you! Weider Contracting is a growing team of dedicated and hardworking professionals who thrive in challenging ...

Southern Company

Locator, VNG

Newport News, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Conducts education sessions with locate contractors, excavators, landowners, and homeowners ... One year of underground utility locating experience * Experience with various types of locate ...

Southern Company

Locator, VNG

Newport News, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Conducts education sessions with locate contractors, excavators, landowners, and homeowners ... One year of underground utility locating experience * Experience with various types of locate ...

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Underground Utility Contractor information

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 Virginia? For Underground Utility Contractor jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Underground Utility Contractor jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Underground Utility Contractor jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Underground Utility Contractor jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Underground Utility Contractor job openings:
Underground Utility Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Underground Utility Contractor job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Hybrid job distribution.

Utility Locator - VA - Field Chesterfield Richmond

Cable Protection Services, Inc

Midlothian, VA • On-site

$19 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

A utility locator is a person or company specializing in identifying and marking the location of underground utilities (like pipes and cables) before construction or excavation work begins, using specialized equipment and techniques to ensure safety and prevent damage. Utility locators play a crucial role in preventing accidents and damage to underground infrastructure during construction projects.How they work: They use specialized equipment like ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and electromagnetic (EM) locators to detect and map the location, depth, and direction of buried utilities. They may also use tracer wires or transmitter/receiver systems to locate and trace utilities. Once the utilities are located, they mark the area with flags, paint, or other visual markers to indicate their location and electronically document.Why they are important: Damage to underground utilities can cause serious accidents, injuries, and property damage, as well as costly repairs and disruptions to essential services. Utility locators are often contracted by One-Call/811 centers to provide locating services for excavation projects and must adhere to the guidelines of 811 ONE CALL systems and any state regulated requirementsTypes of utilities located: Water and irrigation pipes, Gas and oil lines, Electrical power lines, Communication lines, Sewers and drainageRequirements:Valid Driver's License: A valid driver's license is typically required to operate company vehicles.Safe Driving Record: A clean driving record is often a requirement.Ability to Work Outdoors: Utility locating work is often done outdoors in various weather conditions.Computer Proficiency: Some positions may require basic computer skills.Ability to Distinguish Colors: Being able to distinguish between colors used to identify wiring and mark underground utilities is important.Ability to Lift and Move Equipment: Utility locators may need to lift and move equipment up to 50 pounds or more.Routinely: work alone in remote locations with arms above shoulder level, operate vehicle, squeeze, fine hand motion, bend, stoop, stand, walk, lift up to 55 pounds, use keyboard and mouse and carry 3-15 lb electronic locating equipment for extended periods of time, perform work in all weather conditions, operate a company vehicle in safe manner, work overtime, possible travel, and perform on-call/after hours responsibilities on a rotating scheduleBenefitsPaid Training ProgramPaid Travel ExpensesCompany take home vehicle and fuel cardUniform attire and safety equipmentPaid Time Off and HolidaysInsurance (including medical, prescription, dental, vision, disability, life insurance)401(k) w/ Company MatchQuarterly, Anniversary, Birthday, Christmas BonusCellular discountsCompany phone or Bring your own Phone programAbility to Pass a Drug Screen: Many companies require applicants to pass a pre-employment drug screen.