1

Utility Line Locator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

A Utility Locator identifies, locates, and marks the location of City of Mesa subsurface utilities ... This class also performs "checks and wraps" gas line inspections and gas pipeline repairs as ...

Utility Locator

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$50K - $80K/yr

A Utility Locator identifies, locates, and marks the location of City of Mesa subsurface utilities ... This class also performs "checks and wraps" gas line inspections and gas pipeline repairs as ...

Line Locating

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$33.85/hr

... utility maps and special electronic locator equipment * Possess a valid, up-to-date driver ... Line Location Knowledge Behavioral Based Interview The interview is a behavioral based interview ...

Line Locating

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$33.85/hr

... utility maps and special electronic locator equipment * Possess a valid, up-to-date driver ... Line Location Knowledge Behavioral Based Interview The interview is a behavioral based interview ...

HDD Locator

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$23.25 - $28.75/hr

Locate utilities with either Digi-track locating systems * Operate equipment, including, but not ... May spend long periods of time driving and/or riding in line construction vehicles to reach remote ...

Utility Line Locator information

See Arizona salary details

$12

$17

$25

How much do utility line locator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility line locator in Arizona is $17.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.33 and $17.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Utility Line Locators face in the field, and how can they be addressed?

Utility Line Locators often encounter challenges such as deciphering incomplete utility maps, dealing with adverse weather conditions, and working in high-traffic or construction zones. Accurate detection requires strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills, especially when utilities are buried deep or are made of materials that are hard to trace. To address these challenges, locators use a combination of advanced detection equipment, thorough site assessments, and clear communication with contractors and property owners to ensure safety and accuracy. Continuous training and adherence to safety protocols are also essential for overcoming these obstacles.

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

To thrive as a Utility Line Locator, you need a solid understanding of utility systems, map reading, and safety protocols, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with electromagnetic locating equipment, GPS devices, and utility mapping software is commonly required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving abilities help you interact effectively with crews and ensure accurate utility detection. These skills are vital to prevent damage, ensure safety, and support efficient infrastructure projects.

What is the difference between Utility Line Locator vs Cable Locator?

AspectUtility Line LocatorCable Locator
CredentialsTypically requires training in underground utility detection, certifications varySimilar certifications, often overlapping with utility locators
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, construction sites, urban and rural areasIndoor and outdoor, including residential and commercial settings
Employer & IndustryConstruction, utility companies, municipal agenciesTelecommunications, cable companies, construction
Search & Comparison IntentIdentifying underground utility lines to prevent damageLocating underground cables for repair or installation

The main difference between a Utility Line Locator and a Cable Locator lies in their primary focus. Utility Line Locators identify various underground utilities like gas, water, and electrical lines, while Cable Locators specifically focus on underground communication and cable lines. Both roles require similar skills and certifications, often working in outdoor environments for construction or maintenance projects. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right professional for your underground utility needs.

What are Utility Line Locators?

Utility Line Locators are professionals who use specialized equipment to detect and mark the location of underground utilities such as water, gas, electric, telecommunications, and sewer lines. Their work is essential to prevent accidental damage during excavation or construction projects. By accurately identifying the position of these utilities, they help ensure safety, minimize service interruptions, and comply with local regulations. Utility Line Locators often work outdoors and must follow safety protocols to avoid hazards.
What are popular job titles related to Utility Line Locator jobs in Arizona? For Utility Line Locator jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Utility Line Locator job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,709 per year, or $17.2 per hour.
Utility Locator

$50K - $80K/yr

Other

Posted 8 days ago


City Of Mesa rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

178th of 703 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description/Duties First review of applications will be Monday, August 3, 2026. A Utility Locator identifies, locates, and marks the location of City of Mesa subsurface utilities in order to minimize accidental damage or disruption of service due to construction excavation activities. An employee in this class performs a variety of skilled and semiskilled activities to facilitate safe excavation.

These activities include locating and marking existing City-owned underground infrastructure including: natural gas (including high-pressure gas and regulator stations and vaults), electric primary and secondary lines (including J-boxes and vaults), water lines, gas and water valves (including electronic markers), wastewater lines, e-Streets fiber (including J-boxes and vaults), reclaim water system, chilled water/district cooling system, storm water collection system, streetlights, and traffic signals (including fiber optic, telephone, and loop components). This class also performs "checks and wraps" gas line inspections and gas pipeline repairs as necessary in association with contractor gas line repair activities. An employee in this class has responsibility for identifying short circuits in a gas cathodic protection system, and for performing repairs to tracer wire shorts in the gas system.

As the Utility Locator usually works alone, an employee in this class is expected to exercise considerable initiative in moving efficiently through the day's work assignments. Also, considerable independent judgment must be used, as the accuracy of the locate depends heavily upon how well the readings from the equipment are interpreted. An employee in this class must also be able to read and interpret electronic quarter section and plat maps to facilitate locating utility lines.

Employees in this class perform assignments in hazardous traffic environments and are required to use appropriate safety equipment and procedures. An employee in this class uses computers and a variety of specialized, sensitive electronic equipment to locate utility lines and valves in the right-of-way and utility easement. The position performs related duties as required.

The Utility Locator class is distinguished by its full-time responsibility for locating underground utilities, where accuracy of the marks is crucial. This class is subject to emergency call-out and stand-by, and must be willing to work overtime as required. This class is supervised by the Utility Locator Supervisor through meetings, conferences, reports concerning volume and timeliness of locates, problems encountered, and overall results achieved.

This class is FLSA nonexempt. Please refer to the link below for the full job description and additional information regarding assignments, preferred qualifications, and essential functions. Qualifications & Requirements Employee Values: All employees of the City of Mesa are expected to uphold and exhibit the City's shared employee values of Knowledge, Respect, and Integrity.

Minimum Qualifications Required. Any combination of training, education, and experience equivalent to graduation from high school or GED. Two years' full-time employment in underground or utility construction-related work involving some responsibility for reading and interpreting project plans, blueprints, electronic quarter section and plat maps, or related materials; OR two years' full-time employment using electronic locating devices.

Special Requirement. Must possess a valid Class D Arizona Driver's License by hire or promotion date. Substance Abuse Testing.

This class is subject to DOT Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) drug and alcohol testing as outlined in 49 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 199. Preferred/Desirable Qualification. Personal computer (PC) experience and experience using electronic locating devices is desirable.

Link to Job Description http://apps.mesaaz.gov/jobdescriptions/Documents/JobDescriptions/cs4039.pdf


What City Of Mesa employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom