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Underground Utility Laborer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Underground Utilities Laborer - Telecom

Bemidji, MN ยท On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Description Position at JCS Underground Utilities Laborer - Telecommunications Who We Are: J ... Qualifications: โ€ข Previous experience in underground utility work or construction is preferred ...

We are seeking a reliable and hardworking Underground Utilities Laborer to support fiber optic ... Previous experience in underground utility work or construction is preferred. Valid Driver ...

Laborer - Underground

Becker, MN ยท On-site

$18 - $22/hr

The Laborer supports telecom construction crews in the installation, maintenance, and repair of underground fiber optic and utility infrastructure. This role assists with site preparation, trenching ...

Underground Laborer - Utilities About the Role: The Underground Laborer - Utilities plays a crucial role in the installation, maintenance, and repair of underground utility systems. This position is ...

Operator

Harmony, MN ยท On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Miners Underground transforms teams and the underground utility industry by building highly ... Lead and direct laborers on-site * Set up jobsite safety controls (cones, signage, barricades ...

Learn the trade: master skills in utility locating, conduit installation, and heavy equipment ... Click here to explore visible career paths across the company -move from Laborer to Operator to ...

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Underground Utility Laborer information

See Minnesota salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do underground utility laborer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground utility laborer in Minnesota is $17.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $18.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Underground Utility Laborer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Underground Utility Laborer, you need physical stamina, basic construction knowledge, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with utility locating equipment, trenching machines, and safety regulations like OSHA standards is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication help ensure safety and efficiency on job sites. These skills are essential for preventing accidents, maintaining project timelines, and ensuring the proper installation and maintenance of underground utilities.

What are some common challenges faced by underground utility laborers, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Underground utility laborers often work in physically demanding and sometimes hazardous environments, dealing with confined spaces, varying weather conditions, and proximity to heavy machinery. A key challenge is accurately identifying existing utilities to prevent damage during excavation, which requires attention to detail and clear communication with supervisors and utility locators. Staying updated on safety protocols, using personal protective equipment, and participating in regular safety meetings can help address these challenges and ensure a safe, efficient work environment.

What is the difference between Underground Utility Laborer vs Cable Installer?

AspectUnderground Utility LaborerCable Installer
CertificationsOSHA safety training, CDL (optional)OSHA safety training, specialized cable installation certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, underground trenches, utility linesResidential/commercial buildings, above-ground and underground wiring
Industry UsageUtility companies, construction firmsTelecom, cable TV, internet providers

Underground Utility Laborers and Cable Installers both work in the construction and telecommunications industries, often requiring safety certifications and working in similar environments. However, Utility Laborers focus on installing and maintaining underground utility lines, while Cable Installers specialize in installing and repairing cable and wiring systems. Both roles are essential for infrastructure development and require physical labor and safety awareness.

What are underground utility laborers?

Underground utility laborers are skilled workers who assist in the installation, maintenance, and repair of underground utilities such as water, sewer, gas, and electrical lines. Their tasks often include digging trenches, laying pipes or cables, operating machinery, and backfilling excavated areas. They work closely with other construction professionals to ensure that utilities are installed safely and according to regulations. This job requires physical stamina, attention to safety protocols, and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
What are popular job titles related to Underground Utility Laborer jobs in Minnesota? For Underground Utility Laborer jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Underground Utility Laborer jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Underground Utility Laborer jobs in Minnesota are:
Infographic showing various Underground Utility Laborer job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,692 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Underground Utilities Laborer - Telecom

JCS

Bemidji, MN โ€ข On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Description
Position at JCS
Underground Utilities Laborer - Telecommunications
Who We Are:
J. Carlson Services, Inc. was founded in 1999 by Jeffrey A. Carlson, a veteran of the telephone industry with more than 30 years of experience. The company was started at the request of several telephone companies. The company (JCSinc) began with only 2 employees and has now grown to 90 full-time team members.
With offices in Shevlin, Minnesota, Urbandale, Iowa and Salina, Kansas the company continues to expand throughout the Midwest. We have also opened our own auto repair business, JCS Shop in Shevlin, Minnesota. They maintain our fleet as well as services public work.
With the advent of FTTH (Fiber to The Home), JCSinc has chosen to dedicate itself to FTTH projects and specialize in all of the services necessary to provide a complete turnkey solution for FTTH projects.
Overview:
We are seeking a reliable and hardworking Underground Utilities Laborer to support fiber optic installation and maintenance projects. This role involves a variety of field tasks and requires a self-motivated individual who works well on a team and can handle physically demanding work in varying outdoor conditions.
Responsibilities:
โ€ข Ability to travel as needed; occasional weekend work may be required.
โ€ข Clean and prepare construction sites to eliminate potential hazards.
โ€ข Operate hand tools, power tools, and basic survey equipment.
โ€ข Perform safety inspections of work areas to ensure compliance with all regulations.
โ€ข Hand dig, backfill, and compact trenches as required.
โ€ข Carry, load, and stage materials needed for each job site.
โ€ข Assist equipment operators, perform flagging duties, and safely spot operators.
โ€ข Maintain and clean tools and equipment.
โ€ข Perform additional duties as assigned by the supervisor.
Qualifications:
โ€ข Previous experience in underground utility work or construction is preferred.
โ€ข Valid Driver's License required; CDL Class A preferred.
โ€ข Strong work ethic with excellent attendance and personal accountability.
โ€ข Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
Physical Requirements:
โ€ข Ability to lift and/or carry up to 75 lbs multiple times throughout a shift.
โ€ข Capable of working at a sustained pace while producing quality work over extended periods.
โ€ข Ability to climb, dig, work in confined spaces, walk on uneven surfaces, and frequently stoop, kneel, bend, twist, and push/pull.
โ€ข Ability to work outdoors in all environmental conditions, including adverse weather.
โ€ข Ability to identify and correct unsafe conditions while adhering to drug- and alcohol-free workplace policies.
โ€ข Ability to obtain and maintain a DOT medical card.
Perks of Working at JCS:
  • Competitive compensation
  • Per diem for overnight travel (when applicable)
  • Overtime opportunities
  • Ongoing training and career advancement opportunities
  • Supportive, team-oriented work environment
  • Comprehensive health insurance
  • Dental insurance coverage
  • Life insurance coverage
  • ESST-compliant benefits
  • 401(k) plan with company match
  • Employee referral program

Employment with JCS, Inc is contingent upon successful completion of our drug screen process.