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Underground Utility Locate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Underground Utility Locate information

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$13

$18

$26

How much do underground utility locate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 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 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Underground Utility Locators often encounter challenges such as interpreting unclear or outdated utility maps, working in adverse weather conditions, and navigating high-traffic or construction areas.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 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.
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:
Infographic showing various Underground Utility Locate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,319 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Underground Utility Locator

Vannguard Utility Partners

Minneapolis, MN

$22.25 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Vannguard Utility Partners rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description


Vannguard Utility Partners Inc. is currently seeking Underground Utility Locators in your area.

Salary: $22.25 - $26.00 per hour

We are recruiting for a Training Class!

Vannguard is currently seeking new team members with the right attitude. Our Underground Utility Locators are responsible, self-motivated individuals who enjoy working outdoors and have great computer skills. We are committed to training the right individual who is committed to safety, comfortable working on their own, pays close attention to detail, and takes pride in completing a job well done.
Problem-solvers who know that quality is their priority should consider a career as an Underground Utility Locator.
Our Underground Utility Locators use specialized equipment to find underground cables, pipes and other underground utilities to prevent damages and ensure safety during excavation.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
• Drives to sites in response to routine ticket requests, 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
• Indicates utility locations through the utilization of paint, flags, and communicates other relevant information to excavation personnel or other appropriate authorities.
• Cleans and maintains vehicle and all issued equipment.
• Responds to after-hours emergency call-outs in accordance with the established rotation schedule.

Benefits Include:
• Paid Training
• Competitive Wages
• Dental, Health and Life Insurance
• 401(k)
• Flexible scheduling
• Paid vacation
• Work Vehicle

Required Knowledge, Skills and Attitude:
• High school diploma or general education degree (GED).
• Computer Skills
• 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.
• Will be subject to Vannguard's Drug-Free Workplace Program, and complete a pre-employment drug screening.


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