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Underground Utility Contractor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Omni Underground, inc.

Construction Estimator

Clovis, CA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Existing relationships within the California utility and civil construction market About Company Omni Underground is an underground utility contractor specializing in directional drilling, joint ...

W3Global Inc.

Underground Site Utility Estimator

Irving, TX · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

We are a well-established North Texas underground utility contractor located by DFW Airport specializing in commercial and public works infrastructure projects in the DFW Metroplex. Founded in 1999 ...

Bear Creek Site Utilities & Construction, Ltd.

Be Seen First

Underground Site Utility Estimator

Irving, TX · On-site

Company Description We are a well-established North Texas underground utility contractor located by DFW Airport specializing in commercial and public works infrastructure projects in the DFW ...

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 ...

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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.

Construction Estimator

Omni Underground, inc.

Clovis, CA • On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Omni Underground is seeking a Construction Estimator to support the continued growth of our underground utility construction operations. This position is responsible for identifying bidding opportunities, reviewing plans and specifications, preparing accurate cost estimates, obtaining vendor and subcontractor pricing, and helping secure profitable work.


The ideal candidate has experience estimating underground utility, civil, telecom, directional drilling, joint trench, water, sewer, storm drain, or related construction projects and can manage multiple bids while maintaining accuracy and meeting deadlines.

Compensation:

$85,000 - $110,000 yearly


Responsibilities:
  • Review plans, specifications, contracts, and bid documents
  • Perform quantity takeoffs and prepare detailed project estimates
  • Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier quotes
  • Analyze labor, equipment, material, and subcontractor costs
  • Identify project risks, opportunities, and scope gaps
  • Prepare bid proposals and bid packages
  • Track public and private bidding opportunities and proposal deadlines
  • Attend pre-bid meetings and site walks when required
  • Coordinate with operations to ensure accurate production assumptions
  • Maintain bid files, estimating databases, and bid tracking logs
  • Assist with project handoffs to operations after award
  • Build and maintain relationships with customers, vendors, subcontractors, engineers, developers, municipalities, and general contractors

Qualifications:
  • Minimum 3 years of construction estimating experience
  • Strong understanding of construction drawings, utility plans, specifications, and contracts
  • Experience performing quantity takeoffs and cost analysis
  • Ability to read and interpret civil, utility, grading, and improvement plans
  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • Ability to manage multiple estimates simultaneously
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and meet deadlines
  • Valid Driver's License


Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in estimating underground utility construction projects
  • Experience estimating:
  • Directional Drilling
  • Joint Trench
  • Fiber Optic Construction
  • Dry Utilities
  • Water Main Installation
  • Sewer Main Installation
  • Storm Drain Systems
  • Utility Excavation
  • Site Development
  • Asphalt, Concrete, and Landscape Restoration
  • Experience with public works bidding and prevailing wage projects
  • Familiarity with Caltrans, municipal, county, and utility agency projects
  • Experience using Bluebeam, AGTEK, HCSS HeavyBid, PlanSwift, or similar estimating software
  • Existing relationships within the California utility and civil construction market

About Company

Omni Underground is an underground utility contractor specializing in directional drilling, joint trench construction, and full turnkey utility installation throughout California.

Our success is built on four core values: Grit, Integrity, Respect, and Teamwork. We expect every team member to work hard, take ownership, maintain high standards, and contribute to the success of the crew.

We provide opportunities for advancement, invest in employee development, and promote from within whenever possible.

If you're dependable, motivated, and looking to build a long-term career in underground construction, we'd like to hear from you.