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Underground Utility Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Absolute Group

Underground Utility Foreman

Granger, IA · On-site

We are looking to add an Underground Utility Foreman to our team. Responsibilities of the Underground Utility Foreman position include reading and understanding plans, coordinating site development ...

Absolute Group

Underground Utility Foreman

Granger, IA · On-site

We are looking to add an Underground Utility Foreman to our team. Responsibilities of the Underground Utility Foreman position include reading and understanding plans, coordinating site development ...

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Underground Utility information

See Iowa salary details

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$30

How much do underground utility jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground utility in Iowa is $18.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $21.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an underground utility?

An Underground Utility job involves installing, repairing, and maintaining essential infrastructure such as water, sewer, gas, and telecommunications lines beneath the ground. Workers use specialized equipment to dig trenches, lay pipes or cables, and ensure proper connections. Safety and adherence to regulations are crucial due to the risks of working around existing utilities. These jobs are essential for urban development, water management, and communication networks.

What skills and qualifications are needed for an underground utility?

To thrive as an Underground Utility worker, you need hands-on experience with utility installation, repair, and maintenance, along with knowledge of safety standards and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tools like pipe locators, trenchers, and reading utility maps, as well as OSHA certifications, are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and clear communication help workers excel in diverse and often physically demanding environments. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and accurate completion of utility projects while minimizing risks to personnel and infrastructure.

What challenges do underground utility workers face on the job?

Underground Utility workers often encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, dealing with unexpected obstructions or utility line locations, and adapting to varying site conditions and weather. Precision and attention to detail are essential to avoid damaging existing utilities or causing safety hazards. Teamwork and communication are crucial, as crews must coordinate closely to follow plans, adjust to field discoveries, and ensure everyone's safety. Overcoming these challenges not only builds technical expertise but also fosters a supportive and efficient team environment.

How to become an underground utility contractor?

To become an underground utility contractor, you typically need relevant experience in construction or utility work, knowledge of excavation and piping, and often a state or local contractor's license. Obtaining certifications such as OSHA safety training and understanding local regulations are also important steps in establishing credibility in this field.

Is an underground utility locator a good job?

An underground utility locator is a skilled tradesperson responsible for detecting and marking underground pipes and cables using specialized equipment. The job often requires physical activity, attention to detail, and certifications such as OSHA training, with work typically performed outdoors in various weather conditions. It can offer stable employment and opportunities for advancement in the utility and construction industries.

What are the most commonly searched types of Underground Utility jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Underground Utility jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Underground Utility jobs in Iowa?

For Underground Utility jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Underground Utility jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Underground Utility jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Underground Utility jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Underground Utility job openings:

Underground Utility jobs near you
Infographic showing various Underground Utility job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,537 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Underground Utility Locator

Vannguard Utility Partners

Emmetsburg, IA • On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

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


Great Opportunity for Outdoor Work and Freedom!

Salary: $20.00 - $26.00 per hour depending on experience

Job Type: Full-time

Schedule: Monday to Friday (10-hour shift, Overtime, On call)

About the Role

Vannguard Utility Partners, LLC is seeking responsible, self-motivated Underground Utility Locators. If you enjoy the freedom of working outdoors, are committed to safety, are drug-free, and take pride in a job well done, we will provide the training you need to succeed.

In this role, you will drive a company vehicle to job sites, use computer utility maps, and operate specialized equipment to find and mark underground cables and pipes. Your work directly prevents damage and ensures safety within the excavation, landscaping, and construction communities.
Military Servicemembers and Veterans are encouraged to apply!

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Drive a company vehicle directly from home to job sites in response to routine ticket requests, emergencies, and relocates.
  • Use provided mapping tools, location information, and specialized locating equipment to accurately locate underground utilities (including electric, gas, telephone, and communication lines).
  • Mark utility locations using paint and flags, and communicate relevant details to excavation personnel or appropriate authorities.
  • Respond to after-hours emergency call-outs based on an established rotation schedule.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Attitude:

  • Education: High school diploma or equivalent (Required)
  • License: Valid driver's license (Required)
  • Screening: Pass pre-employment DOT drug test and participate in Vannguard's Drug-Free Workplace Program (Required)
  • Skills: Basic computer skills (1 year preferred)
  • Experience: Utility locating (1 year preferred)
  • Availability: Must be able to work overtime and on-call rotations when needed.

Physical Demands & Working Conditions:

  • Driving: Sit and drive between 50 - 300+ miles daily, depending on the assigned area.
  • Mobility: Regularly get in and out of a vehicle 50+ times a day. Stand and walk lengthy distances (1+ miles) over uneven terrain.
  • Lifting: Ability to lift and/or move 50 - 150 pounds.
  • Environment: Work outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Location: Multiple field locations daily.

Benefits:

  • 401(k) + Company match
  • Vision Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Health Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Pet Insurance
  • Paid time off (PTO)

What Vannguard Utility Partners employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

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