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Underground Utility Locator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Underground Utility Locator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

The Underground Utility Locator assists the survey crew by locating and marking underground utilities for various projects. This position can be an in-office and field combination for the right ...

Underground Utility Locator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

The Underground Utility Locator assists the survey crew by locating and marking underground utilities for various projects. This position can be an in-office and field combination for the right ...

Underground Utility Locator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

The Underground Utility Locator assists the survey crew by locating and marking underground utilities for various projects. This position can be an in-office and field combination for the right ...

Utility Locator

Durham, NC · On-site

$20/hr

We are America's leader in underground utility damage prevention and advanced infrastructure ... Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground ...

We are America's leader in underground utility damage prevention and advanced infrastructure ... Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground ...

Utility Locator

Durham, NC · On-site

$20/hr

We are America's leader in underground utility damage prevention and advanced infrastructure ... Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground ...

We are America's leader in underground utility damage prevention and advanced infrastructure ... Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground ...

Utility Locator

Durham, NC · On-site

$20/hr

We are America's leader in underground utility damage prevention and advanced infrastructure ... Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground ...

Utility Locator

Durham, NC · On-site

$20/hr

We are America's leader in underground utility damage prevention and advanced infrastructure ... Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground ...

We are America's leader in underground utility damage prevention and advanced infrastructure ... Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground ...

We are America's leader in underground utility damage prevention and advanced infrastructure ... Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Use locating equipment to determine the location of gas lines ...

We are America's leader in underground utility damage prevention and advanced infrastructure ... Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Use locating equipment to determine the location of gas lines ...

We are America's leader in underground utility damage prevention and advanced infrastructure ... Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Use locating equipment to determine the location of gas lines ...

SUE Technician III (Utility Locator)

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

Minimum 5 to 10 years of progressive experience as a utility locator or SUE Technician; proficiency ... Strong knowledge of underground utility systems and radar; the ability to interpret maps and ...

SUE Technician III (Utility Locator)

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

Minimum 5 to 10 years of progressive experience as a utility locator or SUE Technician; proficiency ... Strong knowledge of underground utility systems and radar; the ability to interpret maps and ...

SUE Technician III

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

Possess the ability to designate/locate a variety of underground utilities, create legible field ... This position is similar to a utility locator or utility designator and requires minimum of 2 - 4 ...

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Underground Utility Locator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$13

$17

$26

How much do underground utility locator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground utility locator in Raleigh, NC is $17.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $18.70 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.

What are popular job titles related to Underground Utility Locator jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For Underground Utility Locator jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Underground Utility Locator jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Underground Utility Locator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Underground Utility Locator jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Underground Utility Locator job openings:

Infographic showing various Underground Utility Locator job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,247 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Underground Utility Locator

Timmons Group

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Timmons Group rating

9.7

Company rating: 9.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 453 rated engineering


Job description

Company Description
Job Description
Timmons Group is currently seeking an Underground Utility Locator to join our Survey Group located in our Raleigh, NC office location. The Underground Utility Locator assists the survey crew by locating and marking underground utilities for various projects. This position can be an in-office and field combination for the right candidate.
Essential duties and Responsibilities of a successful candidate include but are not limited to:
  • Provides underground utility flagging "designation" with proficiency utilizing electromagnet equipment and other geophysical means
  • Designates all utility line types of conductive or non-conductive materials including water, sewer, gas, electric, fiber optic, PVC, and all other underground facilities that would affect an excavation of a site
  • Marks utilities with flags and/or paint and produce a sketch of results for future use by the client
  • May be required to learn how to establish survey control and perform locations of utility designation markings using conventional survey equipment including robotic total stations and RTK GPS technology
  • Oversees maintenance of survey equipment, supplies and vehicle
  • Candidate must be able to work in a team environment, and be willing to work independently on occasion

Skills/Requirements of a successful candidate include but are not limited to:
  • High school diploma/GED and five (5) years of SUE designation and field survey experience is ideal
  • Clear understanding of ASCE 38-02 standards and quality levels and their applications
  • Experience with robotic total stations, data collectors and GPS is preferred
  • Must be able to obtain and hold a federal security clearance
  • AutoCAD experience a plus
  • Valid NC driver license and a good driving record required
  • Must be willing to travel on occasion

Qualifications
Additional Information
The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skills and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
We are looking for high energy, creative, flexible, patient, self-starters who are willing to work at a dynamic pace. Candidates must share a commitment to our company's Vision, Mission and Shared Values.
Timmons Group is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.
Timmons Group is a full-service engineering and technology firm recognized nationally as a "Best Firm to Work For" by CE News. With 21 offices throughout the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast, we provide civil engineering, environmental, economic development, GIS/geospatial technology, landscape architecture, and surveying services to a diverse client base. As one of Engineering News Record's (ENR) Top 500 Design Firms for over 30 years, we are dedicated to being an employer of choice and providing our people with the best resources, technology, and culture to help them thrive in an engaging career development setting. For more information, visit www.timmons.com.
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