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Underground Utility Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Read and understand existing underground facility location information. * Identify and locate unmarked utilities. * Actively identify and eliminate risk of injury or damage. * Restore job site ...

Read and understand existing underground facility location information. * Identify and locate unmarked utilities. * Actively identify and eliminate risk of injury or damage. * Restore job site ...

... underground conduit, handhole, building entrance, and riser facilities. May serve as an informal ... Capture accurate measurements of attachment heights, span distances, utility structures ...

Underground Utility information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$10

$19

$32

How much do underground utility jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground utility in Springfield, IL is $19.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $22.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Underground Utility job?

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 is an underground utility worker?

An underground utility worker installs, maintains, and repairs underground infrastructure such as water, gas, electric, and communication lines. The job often involves operating specialized equipment, working in confined spaces, and following safety protocols and regulations. It requires physical stamina, technical skills, and sometimes certifications in excavation or safety training.

How much does an underground utility worker make?

Underground utility workers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They often work with specialized tools and may require safety training and physical stamina for outdoor, underground environments.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the field of underground utility work, high-paying roles such as senior project managers, utility construction executives, or specialized engineers can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with experience, certifications, and leadership responsibilities. These positions often require advanced skills, industry knowledge, and sometimes long hours or on-site management. However, such salaries are more common in executive or highly specialized roles rather than standard field jobs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Underground Utility position, and why are they important?

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 typical 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.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Underground utility jobs such as skilled equipment operators, linemen, or specialized technicians can pay around $4,000 per week, especially with experience and certifications. These roles often require physical skill, safety training, and knowledge of tools and infrastructure but may not require a college degree.
What job categories do people searching Underground Utility jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Underground Utility jobs in Springfield, IL are:
Infographic showing various Underground Utility job openings in Springfield, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,664 per year, or $19.6 per hour.
Field Claims Investigator

Field Claims Investigator

Phoenix Loss control

Lincoln, IL • On-site

$22/hr

Part-time, Contractor

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job Type: Contract
Workplace Type: Hybrid (50% remote, 50% fieldwork)
Compensation: $22/hr plus $.50/mi

COMPANY OVERVIEW

Phoenix Loss Control (PLC) is a US-based business services provider in the cable, telecom, and utilities sector. PLC’s core service is outside plant damage investigation, recovery, and prevention. Across the US and parts of Canada, we help our clients recover the costs of third-party damage to their infrastructure, such as underground fiber optic or gas lines. PLC currently employs over 140 people, servicing some of the largest cable and telecoms operators (e.g., Comcast, Spectrum, AT&T, and Google). PLC is currently aggressively expanding its business and looking for talented and energetic people to bring onboard to help drive growth. 

POSITION SUMMARY

Outside Plant Damage (OPD) costs our clients over 30 million annually. Field investigators are needed to collect, access, and report these damages. This is a part-time, on-call contract job to help support our clients with damage recovery. For our field investigators, each day and every investigation is different. We need inquisitive, self-driven individuals who are comfortable rolling up their sleeves and working in a constantly changing, dynamic environment. 

Duties

  • Conduct on-site field investigations 
  • Write detailed but concise investigation reports using diverse sources of information, types of evidence, witness statements, and costing estimates 
  • Develop and maintain comprehensive knowledge of local and state statutes, laws, and regulations for underground and aerial cables and utility service lines 
  • Remain prepared and willing to respond to damage calls within a timely manner 
  • Complete damage investigations within 7 days and then work with and support our claims managers to complete the investigation and begin the recovery process 
  • Respond to damages same day if received during business hours (if not, first response following day)
  • Accurately record all time, mileage, and other associated specific items 

Requirements

  • Interpersonal skills to gather information and conduct field interviews with involved parties including contractors and technicians, witnesses, law enforcement, and possible damagers 
  • Smartphone to gather photos, videos, and other information while conducting investigations 
  • Computer, with high-speed internet access, to upload and download reports, research cases, and to interact with our claims system and other databases and portals 
  • Exceptional attention to detail and strong written and verbal communication skills 
  • Proven ability to operate independently and prioritize while adhering to timelines 
  • Strong and objective analytical skills 
  • Valid driver’s license, current insurance, and reliable vehicle with ability to respond to damages at any time 
  • Safety vest, work boots, and hard-hat 

Preferred Qualifications and Skills

  • Current or previous telecommunication or utility experience 
  • Knowledge of underground utility locating procedures and systems 
  • Investigation, inspection, or claims/field adjusting 
  • Criminal justice, legal, or military training or work experience 
  • Engineering, infrastructure construction, or maintenance background 
  • Remote location determined at discretion of investigations manager

 This is a contract position. There are no benefits offered with this position.