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Utility Line Locator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Utility Line Locator information

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$13

$18

$26

How much do utility line locator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility line locator in Virginia is $18.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What challenges do 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 skills and qualifications are needed to be a utility line locator?

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.

Is a utility line locator a good career?

A utility line locator is a skilled trade that involves identifying underground utility lines using specialized tools and knowledge of maps and markings. It offers steady employment opportunities, often requires certification or training, and involves outdoor work in various weather conditions. The career can be stable and essential for construction, excavation, and infrastructure projects.

What is a utility line locator?

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.

How to become a utility line locator?

To become a utility line locator, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or technical courses in underground utility locating. Certification or licensing may be required in some regions, and familiarity with tools like ground-penetrating radar and electromagnetic locators is beneficial.

What are popular job titles related to Utility Line Locator jobs in Virginia?

For Utility Line Locator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Utility Line Locator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,990 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Code Enforcement Inspector - Damage Prevention

City of Richmond

Richmond, VA • On-site

$60K - $94K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Are you Richmond R.E.A.D.Y. Respect. Equity

Accountability. Diversity...YOU!!. This is an EXCITING time to Join the City of Richmond

We are committed to nurturing talent, fostering growth opportunities, and building strong connections within our workforce. As we continue to make strides to becoming the employer of choice, we are thrilled about the below employee benefit enhancements: Virginia Retirement System (VRS) Language Incentive Referral Bonus Tuition Assistance Program Description The City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities is seeking qualified candidates to fill Code Enforcement Inspector - Damage Prevention position. The selected candidate will be responsible for ensuring preventative measures are being taken to avoid utility damage by excavators and homeowners in compliance with the Virginia Underground Damage Prevention Act.

This is expected to be accomplished by being a proactive presence at planned third party excavation jobsites. Tasks may include: Inspecting excavator worksites working around or near RGW facilities; Reporting "as found" conditions at each site; Conveying damage prevention requirements of Virginia State Laws tactfully, but firmly, at each site; Doing complete and thorough investigations at each "Hit Line" incident; Reproducing locating events using available technology, documents, & mapping; Preparing complete and accurate reports of each investigation; Providing a public outreach service by attending community events and such to promote the VA811 "call before you dig" awareness. Duties include but are not limited to Monitor facility locating in advance of excavation to prevent or minimize damage.

Inspect excavator sites who are working around or near RGW facilities. Convey damage prevention requirements to excavators and report as found conditions. Perform damage investigations including reproducing locator events when required.

Complete accurate daily reports of worksites visited including messages distributed to each excavator. Performs administrative and other work as assigned at the local or work-unit level such as investigating "cannot locate" requests from locating contractors or participating in work-related training, classes, or seminars. Qualifications, Special Certifications and Licenses MINIMUM TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE: High School Diploma or G.E.D

Five years of experience in underground utility locating. An equivalent combination of training and experience (as approved by the department) may be used to meet the minimum qualifications of the classification LICENSING, CERTIFICATIONS, and/or OTHER SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Valid Driver's License with satisfactory driving record and a valid Commonwealth of Virginia Driver's License within 30 days of hire. Must be OQ qualified to locate underground utilities before working unsupervised - Federal Law requires the qualification for locating underground gas facilities.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge: Standard work-unit specific tools/equipment used for construction. Underground locating equipment, metal detectors, etc. City policies/procedures, Virginia codes and ordinances OSHA Health and Safety Codes Plumbing/Gas installation Construction scheduling, practices, and methods Skills: Computer proficiency including Microsoft Office Suite Customer service Oral and written communication Interpersonal communication Abilities: Carry out oral and written instructions Manage time Organize Prioritize Problem solve Exhibit initiative and enterprise Exercise independent and sound judgment, discretion, and initiative in interpreting and applying established procedures, guidelines, and rules Manage situations requiring fairness and firmness Interpret and apply state codes and regulations Define problems, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions Establish and maintain working relationships with co-workers, supervisors, office personnel, owners, developers, contractors, laborers, and the general public Americans with Disabilities Act Requirements Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

Prospective and current employees are invited to discuss accommodations. ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS: Working conditions may include exposure to travel to other locations within the City of Richmond as well as outside of the City of Richmond; exposure to hazardous physical conditions such as mechanical parts, electrical currents, vibrations, etc.; atmospheric conditions such as fumes, odors, dusts, gases, and poor ventilation; inadequate lighting; intense noise; and environmental hazards such as disruptive people, imminent danger, and a threatening environment. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT: Due to the nature of work assignments, incumbents must be able to perform detailed work on multiple, concurrent tasks, with frequent interruptions and under time constraint

While performing the essential duties of this job, the employee is regularly required balance, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, reach extending arms and hands in any direction, stand, walk, feel, talk, see, and hear. The employee is occasionally required to push, pull, grasp lift, finger (pick, pinch, type or otherwise work primarily with fingers), feel (perceiving attributes of objects such as size, shape, temperature or texture) and use repetitive motion of the wrists, hands and fingers. In terms of the physical strength to perform the essential duties, this classification is considered to be medium work, exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement The City of Richmond provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. The City of Richmond is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, the City of Richmond will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided with reasonable accommodations.

If you require reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to participate in the job application and/or the interview process, please contact Veronica Kenner, by email at HR-ADA@rva.gov. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. The City of Richmond Values Veterans

We are an official V3 Certified Company. The City of Richmond is a proud partner with the US Army Partnership for Your Success PaYS Program.