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Underground Utility Contractor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Precision Locating

Underground Utility Locator

Anoka, MN · Remote

$21/hr

Meanwhile, Inside Out Installations, a telecom service installation contractor, takes connectivity ... Precision Locating LLC is seeking an Underground Utility Locator to join our growing team located ...

Precision Locating

Underground Utility Locator

Anoka, MN

$21 - $22/hr

Meanwhile, Inside Out Installations, a telecom service installation contractor, takes connectivity ... Precision Locating LLC is seeking an Underground Utility Locator to join our growing team located ...

Omni Underground, inc.

General Laborer

Fowler, CA

$23 - $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 ...

R&N PLOW&BORE LLC

UNDERGROUND FIBER TECHNICIAN

Tomah, WI · On-site

$28/hr

We are a growing underground utility contractor specializing in telecommunications installation. We take pride in delivering high-quality work while maintaining a safe and efficient job site. We are ...

Precision Locating

Underground Utility Locator

Anoka, MN

$21 - $22/hr

Meanwhile, Inside Out Installations, a telecom service installation contractor, takes connectivity ... Precision Locating LLC is seeking an Underground Utility Locator to join our growing team located ...

Precision Locating

Underground Utility Locator

Rogers, MN · Remote

$21/hr

Meanwhile, Inside Out Installations, a telecom service installation contractor, takes connectivity ... Precision Locating LLC is seeking an Underground Utility Locator to join our growing team located ...

R&N PLOW&BORE LLC

UNDERGROUND FIBER TECHNICIAN

Tomah, WI · On-site

$28/hr

We are a growing underground utility contractor specializing in telecommunications installation. We take pride in delivering high-quality work while maintaining a safe and efficient job site. We are ...

ZARRELLCO

Underground Utility Estimator

Phoenix, AZ

$100K - $140K/yr

... civil contractor in the Phoenix area, specializing in underground utility projects. They pride ... themselves on their high-performance teams, innovative solutions, and strong client partnerships.

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Underground Utility Contractor information

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$10

$19

$32

How much do underground utility contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground utility contractor in the United States is $19.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $22.36 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. Familiarity with tools, equipment, and environmental considerations is also essential for success in this field.

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 2000 a day?

Underground utility contractors can earn around $2,000 per day, especially when working on large-scale projects or with specialized skills such as trenching, pipe installation, or operating heavy equipment. High-paying roles often require certifications, experience, and the ability to work in challenging environments, with some contractors earning this rate through overtime or project-based pay. Compensation varies based on location, project size, and individual expertise.

How much does a utility contractor make?

Utility contractors typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Skilled workers with certifications and specialized tools can earn higher wages, especially in urban or high-demand areas.

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 is the highest paying contractor job?

For an underground utility contractor, the highest paying roles are often project managers or construction managers, who oversee large projects and coordinate crews. These positions typically require extensive experience, certifications, and strong leadership skills, and they can earn higher salaries compared to entry-level or specialized labor roles.

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 cities are hiring for Underground Utility Contractor jobs? Cities with the most Underground Utility Contractor job openings:
What states have the most Underground Utility Contractor jobs? States with the most job openings for Underground Utility Contractor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Underground Utility Contractor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Underground Utility Contractor jobs are:
Underground Utility Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Underground Utility Contractor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,029 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Underground Utility Operator

The Contractor Consultants

Old Saybrook, CT • On-site

$30 - $50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Underground Utility Operator– Driving Civil Infrastructure Excellence


Job Title: Underground Utility Operator

Company: B&L Construction

Location: Old Saybrook, CT (On-Site Civil Projects)

Job Type: Full-Time

Schedule: Monday – Friday (Consistent year-round civil utility work available.)

Pay Range: $30.00 – $50.00 hourly + Year-End Bonus & Profit Sharing


The Opportunity

Drive Civil Infrastructure Excellence.


B&L Construction is seeking a highly skilled Underground Utility Operator to drive the successful installation of critical water main and utility infrastructure across our civil sitework projects. We invest in the best tools and newer equipment to support our team, fostering a culture of professional accountability and high-quality results.


This role offers the chance to work in a highly organized environment where your efficiency at the controls directly impacts project timelines. If you are a self-driven professional looking for a stable, long-term career path in civil sitework with a company that offers real profit-sharing opportunities, we want you in the cab.


What You Will Be Doing

You will serve as a primary lead operator, utilizing modern machinery to execute complex utility installations:

  • Precision Operation: Operate heavy excavation equipment with exact precision to install water mains and complex underground utilities.
  • Trenching & Road Work: Execute intricate road work and deep trenching tasks in strict accordance with engineering blueprints and project specifications.
  • Site Leadership: Direct on-site activities to ensure utility installations are completed safely, accurately, and strictly on schedule.
  • Operational Flow: Coordinate seamlessly with field operations teams to maintain a highly productive and organized job site flow.
  • Equipment Care: Minimize project downtime by conducting routine inspections and maintaining excellent care of our modern fleet of machinery.
  • Safety & Compliance: Maintain uncompromising safety standards by adhering to OSHA guidelines and company protocols daily.


What You Need to Succeed (Qualifications)

  • Experience: A minimum of 3 years of proven experience operating excavators and heavy equipment in a civil construction environment.
  • Specialized Expertise: Proven, hands-on expertise in water main installation and complex underground utility workflows.
  • Site Navigation: Demonstrated experience performing road work and safely navigating active, heavy construction sites.
  • Licensure & Certifications: An active OSHA 10 Certification is strictly required (or the immediate willingness to obtain one upon hire).
  • Blueprint Proficiency (Preferred): Advanced proficiency in reading civil blueprints and site layouts is highly preferred.
  • Mindset: A self-motivated work ethic with the ability to work highly independently or as a reliable leader within a crew.


Compensation & Premium Benefits

We believe in rewarding the operators who keep our projects moving forward safely and efficiently. We offer a highly competitive total rewards package:

  • Top-Tier Pay: $30.00 – $50.00 per hour strictly based on your experience, paid on a reliable weekly pay cycle.
  • Financial Growth: A lucrative year-end performance bonus based on company and individual success, plus access to employee stock or profit-sharing opportunities!
  • Health & Wellness: Comprehensive Medical Insurance coverage.
  • Future Security: A robust Retirement Savings Program to support your long-term goals.
  • Work-Life Balance: Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) on a reliable Monday–Friday schedule.


About B&L Construction

B&L Construction is a leading name in civil construction and utility sitework, known for an organized approach and a commitment to efficiency. We invest in our people, our iron, and our community.


Learn more at www.blexcavating.com


B&L Construction is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender expression, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or any other status protected by law or regulations. It is our intention that all qualified applicants be given equal opportunity and that selection decisions be based on job-related factors.