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Underground Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Underground Utility Locator

Altoona, IA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Underground Utility Locator

Marion, IA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Laborer Telecom Underground

Manchester, IA · On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 Utility Locator

Grimes, IA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Underground Utility Locator

Norwalk, IA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Underground Utility Locator

Anamosa, IA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Underground Utility Locator

Keokuk, IA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Underground information

See Iowa salary details

$16

$23

$39

How much do underground jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 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 is an underground?

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 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 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 underground jobs?

Underground jobs involve working below the surface of the earth, such as in mining, tunneling, or utility installation. These roles often require specialized skills, safety training, and the use of tools like drills and shovels, with work environments that can be confined and physically demanding.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,372 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Underground Utility Locator

Vannguard Utility Partners

Mount Pleasant, 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

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