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Underground Utility Locator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

We are America's leader in underground utility damage prevention and advanced infrastructure ... Credit hours for completing our utility locator training curriculum and/or for military service.

We are America's leader in underground utility damage prevention and advanced infrastructure ... Credit hours for completing our utility locator training curriculum and/or for military service.

Utility Locate Technician

Waterford, MI · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

The ideal candidate will be responsible for accurately locating underground utility lines, including gas and electric utilities, ensuring safety and precision in all tasks. This role requires strong ...

Utility Locate Technician

Novi, MI · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

The ideal candidate will be responsible for accurately locating underground utility lines, including gas and electric utilities, ensuring safety and precision in all tasks. This role requires strong ...

We are America's leader in underground utility damage prevention and advanced infrastructure ... Credit hours for completing our utility locator training curriculum and/or for military service.

Utility Locate Technician

Livonia, MI · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

The ideal candidate will be responsible for accurately locating underground utility lines, including gas and electric utilities, ensuring safety and precision in all tasks. This role requires strong ...

Utility Locate Technician

Farmington Hills, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

The ideal candidate will be responsible for accurately locating underground utility lines, including gas and electric utilities, ensuring safety and precision in all tasks. This role requires strong ...

Utility Locate Technician

Farmington Hills, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

The ideal candidate will be responsible for accurately locating underground utility lines, including gas and electric utilities, ensuring safety and precision in all tasks. This role requires strong ...

Utility Locate Technician

Livonia, MI · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

The ideal candidate will be responsible for accurately locating underground utility lines, including gas and electric utilities, ensuring safety and precision in all tasks. This role requires strong ...

Utility Locate Technician

Warren, MI · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

The ideal candidate will be responsible for accurately locating underground utility lines, including gas and electric utilities, ensuring safety and precision in all tasks. This role requires strong ...

Utility Locate Technician

Warren, MI · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

The ideal candidate will be responsible for accurately locating underground utility lines, including gas and electric utilities, ensuring safety and precision in all tasks. This role requires strong ...

Utility Locate Technician

Northville, MI · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

The ideal candidate will be responsible for accurately locating underground utility lines, including gas and electric utilities, ensuring safety and precision in all tasks. This role requires strong ...

Utility Locate Technician

Waterford, MI · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

The ideal candidate will be responsible for accurately locating underground utility lines, including gas and electric utilities, ensuring safety and precision in all tasks. This role requires strong ...

Showing results 41-60

Underground Utility Locator information

See Michigan salary details

$12

$16

$23

How much do underground utility locator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground utility locator in Michigan is $16.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.41 and $16.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an underground utility locator?

Underground Utility Locators are professionals who identify and mark the location of underground utilities such as water, gas, electric, telecommunications, and sewer lines before excavation or construction work begins. Their work is crucial for preventing accidental damage to utility lines, which can cause service interruptions, costly repairs, or safety hazards. Using specialized equipment like ground penetrating radar and electromagnetic sensors, they ensure that digging and construction projects are carried out safely and in compliance with regulations.

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, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with electromagnetic locating equipment, GPS devices, and utility mapping software is essential. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to work independently are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure accurate utility detection, prevent service disruptions, and maintain safety on job sites.

What are common challenges faced by underground utility locators, and how can they be overcome?

Underground Utility Locators often encounter challenges such as inaccurate or outdated utility maps, difficult terrain, and working in high-traffic or adverse weather conditions. To overcome these obstacles, locators rely on strong attention to detail, effective communication with utility companies and construction crews, and the use of advanced locating equipment. Staying up to date with training and safety protocols also helps ensure accuracy and minimizes risks on the job.

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

AspectUnderground Utility LocatorCable Locator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, industry-specific certificationsOSHA safety training, industry-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentUnderground sites, construction zones, utility corridorsUnderground and above-ground cable detection, construction sites
Industry UsageUtilities, construction, municipal projectsTelecommunications, cable TV, internet providers
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, job requirements, and differencesSimilar detection tasks, job scope comparison

Underground Utility Locators and Cable Locators both identify underground infrastructure, but Utility Locators focus on a broader range of utilities like water, gas, and electrical lines, while Cable Locators primarily detect communication and cable lines. Both roles require similar certifications and work in construction or utility environments. Understanding these differences helps job seekers and employers find the right fit for specific project needs.

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 locating techniques and the use of specialized equipment such as ground-penetrating radar and electromagnetic locators. Many employers provide on-the-job training, and obtaining certifications like the National Utility Locating Certification (NUCL) can improve job prospects. Physical fitness and safety awareness are also important in this field.

Is an underground utility locator a good job?

An underground utility locator is a skilled trade that involves detecting and marking underground pipes and cables using specialized equipment. It offers steady employment, often requires physical activity and attention to safety, and may require certifications or training. The job can be rewarding for those interested in construction, infrastructure, and technical problem-solving.
Infographic showing various Underground Utility Locator job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,399 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Drop Bury Technician

USIC

Saginaw, MI • On-site

$24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


USIC rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 270 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

317th of 500 rated business services


Job description

Compensation

$24.00 Hourly

Job Description

Text JOBS to 811DIG (811344) to connect with our hiring team today!

Are you an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys independent field work and is looking to jump start your career? If you are a quality-conscious, safety focused, hard-working individual, then consider an exciting long-term career at USIC!

The USIC name and brand are highly recognized and respected for our strong commitment to quality and safety. We are America's leader in underground utility damage prevention and advanced infrastructure services, performing more than 84 million locates each year for the more than 1,400 telecommunications, electric, gas, water, and sewer utilities and municipalities we serve nationwide. Our mission is to deliver quality, efficient, safe, and innovative solutions to protect our partners' infrastructure and critical assets. At USIC, we are committed to Leading from the Ground Up.

We are looking for individuals who consider themselves problem solvers, take pride in public safety, and thrive in a fast-paced, exciting work environment. Our communities are your communities.

Drop Bury Technicians are responsible for first correctly, safely, and efficiently locating underground utilities, including telecommunications, electric power, cable TV, gas, water, and sewer systems at residential or commercial job sites. Once the locating has been completed, technicians will utilize the utility markings to prevent damage to existing infrastructure while burying coax and fiber optic cable lines. The work includes thoroughly searching designated areas, accurately marking utility locations, trenching cable lines (typically 6-8 inches deep), completing driveway and sidewalk bores, maintaining accurate records/documentation, and photographing each locate and drop bury to ensure customer compliance.

Stronginterpersonal communication skillsare important, as technicians interact regularly with customers, team members, and supervisors to ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and to expectations.

Your Responsibilities as a Drop Bury Technician:

  • Drive company vehicle to assignedoutdoorjobsites and performlocatesand drop bury ticketsas assigned
  • Understand and reference records, maps, and prints to accuratelylocateand mark underground facilities
  • Utilizelocatingequipment and follow locating procedures to ensureaccurate,quality locates
  • Operate digging equipment and/or use hand tools totrenchor borecable lines (typically 6-8 inches deep)
  • Use smartphone and company/customer software to indicate time worked and identify underground facilities located and drop bury tickets completed for billing purposes
  • Adhereto all safety procedures andregulations,including OSHA and company guidelines
  • Take and processphotosand complete anydocumentation needed
  • Checkequipment/supplies dailytoensureyou have adequate supplies and equipmentis fully operational
  • Interact with utility representatives, contractors, property owners, and/or teammates to coordinateworkandmaintainfavorable relations
  • Demonstrateprofessional and respectful behavior

Why You'll Love Working for Us (Our Benefits):

  • 100% paid training - We're invested in you, starting on your first day.
  • High-quality company vehicle & fuel card - All work-related expenses are paid. This means you won't be putting mileage on your personal vehicle for work.
  • Company phone & equipment - Advanced technology you can count on.
  • DailyPay - Access your pay when you need it.
  • Comprehensive insurance options - A variety of excellent insurance choices including medical, dental, vision, and life.
  • 401(k) with company match - We'll help you save for the long term with our competitive 401(k) employer match program.
  • PTO & paid holidays - Even in your first year, so you can spend time with your loved ones.
  • Career Path Program (CPP) - Unmatched in our industry. We recognize employees who strive to be the best in their roles with distinctive titles, promotions, and more.
  • USIC All Stars - Our employee recognition program. Earn points for living our company values and celebrating milestones. Redeem your points for gift cards or merchandise!
  • Tenure Boots Program -$200 voucher to buy a new pair of work boots on your first anniversary and every year after.
  • Education Partnership & Scholarship Program - Discounted tuition for USIC employees, their spouses, and dependents through Indiana Tech (courses available online nationwide). Scholarships available for employees. Credit hours for completing our utility locator training curriculum and/or for military service.
  • Employee discounts & perks - Outstanding discounts at major retailers and service providers.

What We Need from You (Our Requirements):

  • Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions for extended periods of time
  • Computer proficiency and the ability to use and interpret various electronic locating equipment
  • Available to work overtime, including weekends, as needed
  • Ability to pass a drug screen (this is a safety-sensitive position)
  • Valid driver's license and a safe driving record
  • Ability to walk long distances, bend,kneel,and liftfrequently (up to 75 lbs.);ability to work in a confined space
  • Ability to do manual labor utilizing hand tools to digor bore6-8 inchesin depth for up to 100 feet
  • Ability to distinguish between colors used to identify wiring and mark underground utilities
  • Ability to read, understand, and reference locate tickets, as well as maps and prints
  • Ability to communicate clearly with colleagues, customers, contractors, and property owners
  • Ability to perform efficiently with minimal direct supervision
  • Previousutility industry/locating/drop bury experienceor other outdoor work experience is beneficial but notrequired
  • Experience with operating digging equipment (vibratory plows or boringmachines) ispreferred but notrequired
  • Experience with operating fiber fusion splicersis highlypreferred but notrequired

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Veterans are encouraged to apply.

When texting, message and data rates may apply.View our terms and conditions here: https://www.usicllc.com/terms-and-conditions and our privacy policy here: https://www.usicllc.com/privacy-policy.


What USIC employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About USIC

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

USIC is a leading provider of underground utility damage prevention services, performing over 70 million locates each year. With a strong reputation for reliability, USIC offers a comprehensive range of utility services across the United States and Canada. The company's mission is to deliver innovative and efficient solutions that prioritize safety and protect critical assets and infrastructure for its partners.

Industry

Internet and it

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Indianapolis, IN, US

Year founded

2008

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