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Underground Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Laborer Underground

Sioux City, IA ยท On-site

$17 - $21.75/hr

Hourly Discover a more connected career At TelCom Construction, LLC, as a Laborer on our Telecom Underground team, you'll participate in all phases of underground construction, including loading ...

Underground Laborer

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$16 - $19.75/hr

Hourly Discover a more connected career At TelCom Construction, LLC, as a Laborer on our Telecom Underground team, you'll participate in all phases of underground construction, including loading ...

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Underground information

See Iowa salary details

$16

$23

$39

How much do underground jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for underground in Iowa is $23.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.42 and $25.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive in an underground worker role, you need strong physical fitness, mechanical aptitude, and a solid understanding of safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with specialized equipment such as drills, conveyors, and ventilation systems, along with certifications like MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration), is typically required. Problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in underground environments. These competencies are essential to ensure safe, efficient operations and minimize risks in challenging work conditions.

What is an Underground job?

An underground job typically refers to work performed beneath the Earth's surface, such as in mining, tunneling, or subterranean construction. These jobs can involve operating heavy machinery, drilling, blasting, and ensuring structural safety in confined spaces. Workers in underground jobs often face challenging conditions, including limited visibility, potential exposure to hazardous materials, and the need for specialized safety equipment. Proper training and adherence to safety regulations are crucial to minimizing risks in these environments.

What are some common challenges faced by underground workers, and how are they managed?

Underground workers often encounter challenges such as limited natural light, confined working spaces, and exposure to dust or noise. To manage these conditions, employers provide specialized protective equipment, enforce strict safety procedures, and conduct regular training on hazard awareness. Collaboration with supervisors and team members is also vital for maintaining a safe environment and responding promptly to emergencies. Most companies support their teams with structured shifts and rest breaks, helping mitigate fatigue and maintain overall well-being.

What are popular job titles related to Underground jobs in Iowa? For Underground jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Underground jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Underground job openings:
Infographic showing various Underground job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,372 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Underground Utility Laborer

Underground Systems Inc

Ames, IA โ€ข On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Description:

Laborer:

Laborer will participate in a variety of construction projects and follow construction plans and instructions from the site Foreman and Supervisor.

Position requires Laborer to work well as part of a team, enjoy working outdoors, and be able to perform strenuous physical tasks lifting up to 50 LBS.

Responsibilities:

  • Preparing construction sites, materials, and tools
  • Loading and unloading of materials, tools, and equipment
  • Removing debris/garbage and conduct restoration at work sites
  • Assembling and breaking down barricades and temporary structures
  • Upon qualifying for a DOT Medical Card, assist and operate combinations of commercial vehicles and trailers over 10,000 LBS
  • Additionally, if operating commercial vehicle and trailer combinations over 26,000 LBS, drivers are required to have and maintain a Commercial Driverโ€™s License (CDL) with a tanker endorsement, per FMCSA/DOT guidelines
  • Regulating traffic and erecting traffic signs per MUTCD guidelines
  • Following all health and OSHA 1926 Construction Safety standards and regulations
  • Digging potholes, trenching, and other underground excavation work
Requirements:

Requirements:

  • No formal qualification is required, although a High School diploma may be preferred
  • Similar work experience may be beneficial
  • Willingness to undertake training when necessary
  • Be able to work in a team setting as part of a construction crew
  • Valid driver's license with minimal traffic violations in the past three years
  • CDL preferred