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Underground Utility Locate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bedrock Engineering Inc.

Be Seen First

Underground Utility Locating Technician

Madera, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $40/hr

Respond to utility locate requests within required timeframes. * Use electromagnetic locators, ground-penetrating equipment, and utility maps to identify underground facilities. * Accurately mark ...

Urgent

Bedrock Engineering Inc.

Be Seen First

Underground Utility Locating Technician

Madera, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $40/hr

Respond to utility locate requests within required timeframes. * Use electromagnetic locators, ground-penetrating equipment, and utility maps to identify underground facilities. * Accurately mark ...

Urgent

GridHawk

Utility Locate Technician

Pontiac, MI · On-site

$16 - $19.75/hr

Locate underground utility lines, specifically gas and electric utilities, using appropriate tools and techniques. * Read and interpret prints, maps, and other documentation to accurately identify ...

GridHawk LLC

Utility Locate Technician

Bloomfield Hills, MI · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Locate underground utility lines, specifically gas and electric utilities, using appropriate tools and techniques. * Read and interpret prints, maps, and other documentation to accurately identify ...

Dynamic Concepts

Underground Utility Locator

Washington, DC · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

DCI Utility Locate ServiceRegion:MD, DC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Technicians use locating ... underground facilities while utilizing industry safety practices. * Techs are required to enter ...

Dynamic Concepts, Inc.

Underground Utility Locator

Washington, DC · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

DCI Utility Locate ServiceRegion:MD, DC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Technicians use locating ... underground facilities while utilizing industry safety practices. * Techs are required to enter ...

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All JobsUnderground Utility Locate Jobs

Underground Utility Locate information

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$13

$18

$26

How much do underground utility locate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground utility locate in the United States is $18.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Underground Utility Locate vs Cable Locator?

AspectUnderground Utility LocateCable Locator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, utility locating certificationsOSHA safety training, cable locating certifications
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, underground utility sitesIndoor/outdoor, cable installation sites
Industry UsageConstruction, public works, utility companiesTelecom, cable TV, internet providers
Job FocusDetecting underground utilities to prevent damageLocating underground or overhead cables for installation or repair

Underground Utility Locate specialists focus on identifying underground utilities like gas, water, and electrical lines to prevent damage during construction. Cable Locators primarily find underground or overhead communication and cable lines for installation or maintenance. While both roles involve locating underground infrastructure, their specific focus and industry applications differ, making each essential for different sectors within the utility and telecommunications industries.

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

To thrive as an Underground Utility Locator, you need a solid understanding of utility systems, map reading, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with electromagnetic locating equipment, ground-penetrating radar, and GIS mapping software is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving skills help locators work accurately and safely with construction crews and property owners. These abilities are crucial to prevent utility damage, ensure personal and public safety, and maintain efficient project timelines.

How to become an underground utility locator?

To become an underground utility locator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with training in utility mapping, excavation safety, and the use of locating tools such as ground-penetrating radar or electromagnetic detectors. Many employers prefer candidates with experience in construction or surveying, and obtaining certifications like the National Utility Locating Certification can improve job prospects.

How much does private utility locating cost per hour?

The hourly cost for underground utility locate jobs typically ranges from $100 to $200, depending on the complexity of the site, location, and the equipment used. Certified utility locators with specialized tools may charge higher rates, and costs can vary based on project size and accessibility.

How much do utility locators make?

Utility locators typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000. Experienced professionals with certifications and specialized skills may earn higher wages, especially in regions with high demand for underground utility detection.

What does USIC pay per hour?

Underground Utility Locate technicians at USIC typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, depending on experience and location. The role involves operating specialized equipment and following safety protocols, often requiring certifications such as OSHA training.

What are some common challenges faced by Underground Utility Locators and how can they be addressed?

Underground Utility Locators often encounter challenges such as interpreting unclear or outdated utility maps, working in adverse weather conditions, and navigating high-traffic or construction areas. To address these, locators rely on advanced equipment, thorough training, and effective communication with contractors and utility companies. Staying up-to-date with best practices and safety protocols helps minimize errors and ensures that buried utilities are accurately identified to prevent costly or dangerous incidents.

What are underground utility locators?

Underground utility locators are professionals who use specialized equipment to detect and mark the location of buried utilities like water, gas, electric, and telecommunication lines. Their work is essential to prevent damage during excavation or construction projects, ensuring safety and compliance with regulations. Locators interpret utility maps, use electromagnetic equipment, and often work outdoors in various weather conditions. Their accurate markings help protect infrastructure and the public from dangerous utility strikes.
More about Underground Utility Locate jobs
What cities are hiring for Underground Utility Locate jobs? Cities with the most Underground Utility Locate job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Underground Utility Locate jobs? The most popular types of Underground Utility Locate jobs are:
What states have the most Underground Utility Locate jobs? States with the most job openings for Underground Utility Locate jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Underground Utility Locate jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Underground Utility Locate jobs are:
Underground Utility Locate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Underground Utility Locate job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,319 per year, or $18.4 per hour.
Damage Prevention Specialist Utility Locate

Damage Prevention Specialist Utility Locate

Sparus Holdings

Acworth, GA • On-site

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Now Hiring: Underground Utility Locate Technician

Must reside in the Cobb County, GA Region
Full-Time | Monday-Friday | Overtime & Weekend Availability
Weekly Pay

Our Underground Utility Locate Technicians use computer utility maps and specialized equipment to find underground cables, pipes, and other underground utilities to prevent damages and ensure safety during excavation. If you are a problem-solver who has safety as your priority, then you should consider a career as an Underground Utility Locate Technician.

Job Summary
The Damage Prevention Specialist Utility Locate is responsible for accurately identifying and marking underground utility lines within Cobb County to prevent damage during excavation. This role is crucial for ensuring public safety and maintaining essential infrastructure.

What You Will Earn

Pays from $18 and UP depending on experience. Automatic hourly increase of $.50 after 60 days of employment and then $.50 after 180 days of employment.

Benefits Included: Company Vehicle, Wages On-Demand (earned daily pay), Paid Training, Competitive Wages, Medical/Vision/Dental Plans, Life Insurance, Paid Vacation, Paid Holidays, and many other benefits.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Drives to sites in response to routine ticket requests, and emergencies, and relocates
  • Utilizes the provided mapping tools and other location information, along with locating equipment, to locate underground utilities including, but not limited to: electrical cables, gas lines, telephone and other communication lines
  • Indicates utility locations through the utilization of paint, flags, and communicates other relevant information to excavation personnel or other appropriate authorities
  • Responds to after-hours emergency call-outs in accordance with the established rotation schedule if applicable to the area assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Attitude

Utility Locating Experience is preferred but not required. Utility Construction Experience is a preferred but not required. Outdoor work experience is preferred but not required. Must have a positive attitude. Must be able to use a computer. Valid driver's license in applicable state of employment. Must be able to work overtime when duties cannot be performed within a normal work schedule.

Work Schedule

Monday through Friday Full Time with the possibility of weekend work when duties cannot be performed within a normal work schedule.

Physical Requirements

  • While performing the duties of this job, employees regularly:
  • Drive 50 to 200+ miles daily as required by assigned geographic locating area.
  • Stand and walk lengthy distances (4-6 miles) over uneven terrain.
  • Sit for long periods of time while driving.
  • Lift and/or move 50 pounds.
  • Work outdoors in all weather conditions.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Sparus Holdings is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

EEO Statement

Sparus Holdings is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status. We are committed to providing a workplace free of any discrimination or harassment.

Reasonable Accommodation Requests

Sparus Holdings is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with physical and mental disabilities. If you need special assistance or accommodation while seeking employment, please email recruiting@sparusholdings.com. We will make a determination on your request for reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis.

"Know Your Rights" Poster

The law requires Sparus Holdings to post a notice describing the Federal laws prohibiting job discrimination. For information regarding your legal rights and protections, please click on the following link:Know Your Rights

Pay Transparency Non-Discrimination Provision

Sparus Holdings will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay. Please see thePay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provisionfor more information.

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