1

Underground Utility Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary Zachry Underground and Utility Services in San Antonio, TX is seeking an Underground Utility Foreman. This position is responsible for directing labor and equipment involved in the ...

Position Summary Zachry Underground and Utility Services in San Antonio, TX is seeking an Underground Utility Foreman. This position is responsible for directing labor and equipment involved in the ...

Position Summary Zachry Underground and Utility Services in San Antonio, TX is seeking an Underground Utility Foreman. This position is responsible for directing labor and equipment involved in the ...

Be Seen First

The Underground Wet Utility Foreman/Operator leads a small team dedicated to civil construction, municipal utility maintenance, and industrial utility projects. This role involves hands-on equipment ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

Underground Utility information

See Texas salary details

$9

$18

$30

How much do underground utility jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground utility in Texas is $18.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $20.82 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 Texas?

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

What cities in Texas are hiring for Underground Utility jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Underground Utility job openings:

Infographic showing various Underground Utility job openings in Texas 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 $38,225 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Underground Utility Foreman

Magnolia, TX โ€ข On-site

$32/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Position Summary

The Underground Utility Foreman is responsible for leading and coordinating field crews performing underground utility installation, maintenance, and repair. This position plays a critical role in ensuring projects are completed safely, efficiently, on schedule, and according to plans, specifications, and company standards. The Foreman serves as the primary field leader for their assigned crew and is responsible for directing daily activities, managing manpower and equipment, maintaining production, communicating with project management, and ensuring quality workmanship.

At SubTerra Utilities, we believe Excellence Runs Deep. The ideal candidate leads by example, takes ownership of the work, and understands that successful projects are built through strong communication, accountability, safety, and teamwork.


Reporting Structure

Reports To: Dand Woods, Superintendent


Core Responsibilities

Crew Leadership & Field Operations

  • Lead and supervise underground utility crews on active construction projects.
  • Plan and coordinate daily work activities based on project schedules, plans, and site conditions.
  • Assign tasks to crew members and ensure work is completed efficiently and correctly.
  • Provide hands-on direction and training to crew members as needed.
  • Maintain productivity and keep crews working safely and efficiently throughout the day.
  • Lead by example and maintain a professional, positive attitude on the jobsite.
  • Hold crew members accountable for performance, attendance, safety, equipment care, and quality of work.

Underground Utility Installation

  • Supervise installation of underground utility systems in accordance with plans, specifications, and project requirements.
  • Coordinate excavation, trenching, bedding, installation, backfill, compaction, and restoration activities.
  • Operate and oversee the safe operation of excavation and underground utility equipment when necessary.
  • Verify grades, elevations, alignment, depths, and locations throughout the installation process.
  • Identify potential conflicts with existing utilities and communicate issues immediately.
  • Coordinate with other contractors and trades working on the project.
  • Ensure work is performed within project specifications and required tolerances.

Safety

  • Make safety the highest priority on every jobsite.
  • Conduct and participate in daily toolbox talks and job hazard assessments.
  • Ensure trenching, excavation, shoring, access, and utility work are performed safely and in accordance with applicable requirements.
  • Identify and correct unsafe conditions immediately.
  • Ensure proper use of PPE, equipment, traffic control, and other required safety measures.
  • Report incidents, near misses, property damage, and safety concerns promptly.

Equipment, Materials & Jobsite Management

  • Monitor and maintain proper use and care of company equipment, tools, vehicles, and materials.
  • Coordinate material deliveries and ensure materials are available when needed.
  • Track tools, equipment, and materials used on the project.
  • Perform daily inspections of equipment and report maintenance or repair needs.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and professional jobsite.
  • Minimize material waste and unnecessary equipment downtime.

Communication & Documentation

  • Communicate daily progress, production, manpower, equipment needs, and jobsite issues to the Project Manager or Superintendent.
  • Review project plans, specifications, and daily work requirements.
  • Maintain accurate daily reports, production quantities, time records, and equipment records.
  • Communicate schedule concerns, field changes, conflicts, and unforeseen conditions promptly.
  • Work closely with Project Managers, Superintendents, inspectors, general contractors, and other subcontractors.
  • Assist with documenting change order work and additional scope when applicable.


Qualifications

  • 3+ years of experience in underground utility construction preferred.
  • Previous Foreman or lead experience strongly preferred.
  • Strong understanding of underground utility installation and construction practices.
  • Ability to read and understand construction plans, specifications, and utility drawings.
  • Ability to understand grades, elevations, measurements, and utility depths.
  • Experience operating or directing the operation of excavators, skid steers, loaders, trenchers, and other construction equipment preferred.
  • Strong understanding of excavation and trench safety.
  • Ability to lead a crew while maintaining productivity and morale.
  • Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
  • Reliable transportation and dependable attendance.
  • Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record.
  • Ability to travel throughout Texas as project requirements dictate.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and perform physically demanding work when necessary.