ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Utility Damage Investigator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsUtility Damage Investigator Jobs

Utility Damage Investigator information

See salary details

$32K

$75.3K

$131K

How much do utility damage investigator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for utility damage investigator in the United States is $75,325.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Utility Damage Investigator do?

A Utility Damage Investigator is responsible for examining incidents where underground utilities, such as gas, water, or electrical lines, have been damaged during construction or excavation. They gather evidence, interview witnesses, and determine the cause and liability for the damage. Their work helps utility companies and contractors prevent future incidents, improve safety practices, and comply with regulations. Utility Damage Investigators often prepare detailed reports and may assist in legal or insurance claims related to the damages.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Utility Damage Investigator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Utility Damage Investigator, you need a strong understanding of utility systems, investigative techniques, and relevant safety regulations, often supported by experience in utility or construction fields. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, incident reporting systems, and sometimes certifications like OSHA safety training are typically required. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help in gathering evidence and interacting with various stakeholders. These skills are crucial for accurately determining causes of utility damage, ensuring compliance, and promoting public safety.

What are some common challenges Utility Damage Investigators face during field investigations?

Utility Damage Investigators often encounter challenges such as navigating complex or hazardous work sites, accurately identifying the cause of utility damages, and gathering reliable evidence in sometimes adverse weather or limited-access conditions. They must also coordinate with various parties, including contractors, utility companies, and sometimes local authorities, which requires strong communication and organizational skills. Adhering to safety protocols while conducting thorough investigations is essential to ensure accurate reporting and prevent future incidents.

What is the difference between Utility Damage Investigator vs Utility Locator?

AspectUtility Damage InvestigatorUtility Locator
CredentialsTypically requires safety training, industry certifications, and sometimes state licensingOften requires similar safety training and locators' certifications
Work EnvironmentFieldwork involving damage assessment, site inspections, and reportingFieldwork focused on marking underground utilities before excavation
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by utility companies, contractors, and damage prevention agenciesPrimarily employed by utility companies and excavation firms
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in damage assessment and investigationFocus on utility location and marking prior to construction

While both roles involve working with utility infrastructure, a Utility Damage Investigator focuses on assessing and investigating utility damages after incidents occur, whereas a Utility Locator specializes in identifying and marking underground utilities before excavation to prevent damage. Both roles require safety training and industry certifications, but their primary responsibilities differ in timing and focus within the utility industry.

More about Utility Damage Investigator jobs
What cities are hiring for Utility Damage Investigator jobs? Cities with the most Utility Damage Investigator job openings:
What states have the most Utility Damage Investigator jobs? States with the most job openings for Utility Damage Investigator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Utility Damage Investigator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Utility Damage Investigator jobs are:
Utility Damage Investigator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Damage Investigator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,325 per year, or $36.2 per hour.
Supervisory Field Technician - Damage Prevention

Supervisory Field Technician - Damage Prevention

SYTE Corp

Chicago, IL • On-site

$19.75 - $27/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
The Supervisory Field Technician oversees daily locating operations, field quality, safety compliance, and technician development. This role serves as the operational leader for field personnel while ensuring accurate utility locating, client satisfaction, and regulatory compliance.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Supervise and support field locating technicians.
  • Conduct ride-alongs, audits, and field quality inspections.
  • Ensure compliance with 811 regulations and company procedures.
  • Assist with escalated or complex utility locate situations.
  • Mentor and train new locators on advanced locating techniques.
  • Coordinate workload distribution and emergency response tickets.
  • Monitor production metrics, ticket completion, and service quality.
  • Conduct safety meetings and enforce PPE requirements.
  • Investigate damages, near misses, and customer complaints.
  • Communicate with utility owners, municipalities, and contractors.
  • Assist management with reporting and operational planning.

Qualifications:
  • 5+ years utility locating experience.
  • Previous leadership or supervisory experience preferred.
  • Advanced knowledge of locating methodologies and troubleshooting.
  • Strong leadership and coaching abilities.
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills.
  • Experience using ticket management software and GIS systems.

Preferred Skills:
  • Advanced power locating experience.
  • High-profile infrastructure locating.
  • Fiber and directional drilling support.
  • Conflict resolution and contractor coordination.

Certifications Preferred:
  • OSHA 30
  • Defensive driving certification
  • NULCA certification
  • Utility damage investigation experience

Work Environment:
  • Combination of field and office responsibilities.
  • On-call availability for emergency utility response may be required.