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Underground Utility Locate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

$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 ...

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How much do underground utility locate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 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 an underground utility locator?

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.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an underground utility locator?

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.

What challenges do underground utility locators face 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Underground Utility Locators often encounter challenges such as interpreting unclear or outdated utility maps, working in adverse weather conditions, and navigating high-traffic or construction areas.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 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.

How to become an underground utility locate?

To become an underground utility locator, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or technical courses in utility mapping, construction, or surveying. Certification in underground utility locating and familiarity with tools like ground-penetrating radar or electromagnetic locators can improve job prospects; some employers also require safety training and knowledge of local regulations.

Is an underground utility locate a good job?

Underground utility locate is a skilled trade involving identifying and marking underground pipes and cables to prevent damage during construction. It offers steady employment, requires knowledge of safety protocols, and often involves certifications such as OSHA training. The job environment can be physically demanding and may require working outdoors in various weather conditions.
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Underground Utility Locate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Underground Utility Locate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,319 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Underground Utility Locate Supervisors

Danella Line Services

Chestertown, MD

$70K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Danella Line Services is looking for Underground Utility Locate Supervisors to work with locators responding to utility marking requests on behalf of our utility customers. Daily interaction with homeowners, excavators, and utility personnel is required.

Responsibilities include:

  • Assisting locators to access the locate requests, records and plans via an internet enabled iPad or laptop.
  • Coaching utility locators on the proper use of the locate equipment to accurately mark the location of the underground facilities
  • Verifying the locates and confirming that proper documentation of the locate has been entered into the online ticket management system.
  • Managing a team of 10+ locators to ensure quality, accuracy and safety standards are met daily.

Key Skills & Requirements

  • Experience: 4+ years in utility locating.
  • Previous supervisory experience preferred.
  • Excellent communication skills are required.  
  • Gas, Electric and Communication locate experience preferred. 
  • Tools & Knowledge: Proficiency with locating equipment (Metrotech,  Radio Detection, inductive/conductive tools), 811 systems, and utility maps.
  • Leadership: Ability to supervise crews, ensure safety compliance, and coordinate with utility managers.
  • Physical Requirements: Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work outside in all weather conditions

Salary based upon previous experience.