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Utility Locating Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bedrock Engineering Inc.

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Underground Utility Locating (UGL) Project Manager

Madera, CA · On-site

$27 - $55/hr

Under the guided supervision of the Underground Utility Locating Manager, the Underground Utility Locating Project Manager is responsible for locating and marking the position of underground ...

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Utility Locating information

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How much do utility locating jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility locating in the United States is $18.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a utility locator?

Utility locators are professionals who use specialized equipment to identify and mark the location of underground utilities such as gas lines, water pipes, electrical cables, and telecommunications lines. Their main role is to prevent accidental damage during excavation or construction projects by ensuring that workers know where underground infrastructure is buried. This helps protect public safety, prevents costly repairs, and ensures compliance with local regulations. Utility locators often work for private companies, government agencies, or utility providers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a utility locator?

To thrive as a Utility Locator, you need a strong understanding of underground utility systems, map reading, and attention to detail, usually supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with electromagnetic locating equipment, GIS mapping software, and safety procedures is typically required, along with certifications such as OSHA safety training. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and reliability help you interact effectively with contractors, property owners, and team members. These skills ensure accurate identification and marking of utilities, which is crucial for preventing service interruptions and ensuring job site safety.

What are some common challenges utility locators face in the field, and how can they be addressed?

Utility locators often work in varied and sometimes unpredictable environments, making it challenging to accurately identify and mark underground utilities, especially in areas with congested or outdated maps. Weather conditions, difficult terrain, and interference from other buried infrastructure can also present obstacles. Effective communication with contractors, property owners, and team members is essential to overcome these challenges, as is using advanced locating equipment and continuously updating one's knowledge of local utility layouts. Ongoing training and adherence to safety protocols help ensure accuracy and reduce the risk of utility strikes.

What is the difference between Utility Locating vs Pipe Fitting?

AspectUtility LocatingPipe Fitting
Required CredentialsTypically no formal certification, but safety training is commonTrade certifications or technical training required
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, construction sites, utility corridorsIndoor and outdoor, construction sites, industrial facilities
Industry UsageUtility companies, construction, excavationPlumbing, construction, industrial facilities
Common Search/ComparisonUtility Locating vs Pipe FittingUtility Locating vs Pipe Fitting

Utility locating involves identifying underground utilities to prevent damage during excavation, while pipe fitting focuses on installing and repairing piping systems. Both roles are essential in construction and maintenance, but utility locators primarily work outdoors with detection equipment, whereas pipe fitters handle pipe assembly and repair in various environments.

Is a utility locating a good career?

Utility locating is a skilled trade involving identifying underground utilities using tools like ground-penetrating radar and utility maps. It offers steady employment, often requires certification or training, and can lead to advancement in construction, excavation, or infrastructure maintenance fields.

What do you need to become a utility locator?

To become a utility locator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, knowledge of underground utility systems, and training in the use of locating tools such as ground-penetrating radar and electromagnetic detectors. Some employers may require certification or on-the-job training to develop skills in safe and accurate utility detection.
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Cities with the most Utility Locating job openings:

What states have the most Utility Locating jobs?

States with the most job openings for Utility Locating jobs include:

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Utility Locating jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Locating job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,319 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

(SUE) Utility Locating Technician

Tesoro Group

Overland Park, KS

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time, Per diem

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Tesoro Technology has partnered with a leading national surveying and engineering firm that specializes in renewable energy and land development. With over 50 years of experience and a legacy of innovation, the company is at the forefront of the industry. They are recognized leaders in renewable energy, dedicated to transforming the energy grid, designing resilient infrastructure, and developing communities that will thrive today and for generations to come.

Salary: $25 - $35

Travel Requirement: Hybrid; involving travel out of town as well as some local work.
Per Diem: $205 (For travel days)
Hours: 40-75 hours a week

**Must have a Valid Driver’s License and a clean driving history***

Position Overview:

We are seeking a dedicated Utility Locate Technician to join our team. This role involves accurately identifying and marking underground utilities for use during the pre-design and construction phases. The ideal candidate should have experience in utility locating, land surveying, and field service. Additionally, they must be able to operate various technologies, including Radio Detection (RD) and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), as well as Trimble surveying equipment. While familiarity with AutoCAD Civil 3D and GIS is preferred, it is not required. The technician will also be responsible for efficiently managing multiple pipe and line locating projects.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Office: Assists Project Leads with CAD production, deliverables review, computations, and other survey-related responsibilities.
  • Field: Periodic travel to perform private utility locating
  • Performs self and peer-review QA/QC checks.
  • Coordinates with field crews and office staff.
  • Ensures division, regional, and company values, policies, and practices are consistently followed within the survey service.
  • Leads by example – displays solid judgment, good values, trust, honesty, openness, and professionalism.
  • Drives innovation and efficiency in CAD production processes.
  • Handles multiple priorities and projects well.
  • Consistently demonstrates critical thinking skills.

Required Experience:

  • Strong listening, writing, and verbal communication skills.
  • Knowledge of utility networks and geophysical locating equipment (pipe & line locator).
  • Ability to operate AutoCAD Civil 3D for production activities and familiarity with GIS concepts.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks, support project coordination, and interact with other services.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office.

Preferred Experience

  • 5 years of utility locating experience.
  • Experience with ground penetrating radar (GPR).
  • Experience with CAD production on Wind, Solar, and Power Delivery projects.
  • Coordinating activities with office personnel, including surveying technicians and engineering staff.
  • Understanding of survey field procedures and the operation of survey field equipment.

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