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Utility Locating Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Bedrock Engineering Inc.

Be Seen First

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 ...

Urgent

Essel

Utility Locator

San Marcos, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

Previous experience in utility locating, construction, or related field preferred. * Strong understanding of utility marking standards and safety protocols. * Ability to operate utility locating ...

Essel

Utility Locator

San Marcos, CA

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

Previous experience in utility locating, construction, or related field preferred. * Strong understanding of utility marking standards and safety protocols. * Ability to operate utility locating ...

Essel

Utility Locator

San Marcos, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

Previous experience in utility locating, construction, or related field preferred. * Strong understanding of utility marking standards and safety protocols. * Ability to operate utility locating ...

Dycom Industries, Inc.

Utility Locator

Novato, CA · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Learn utility locating techniques, safety protocols and how to operate equipment * Develop an understanding of local utility infrastructure and regulations * Partner with experienced Locators to mark ...

Dycom Industries, Inc.

Utility Locator

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Learn utility locating techniques, safety protocols and how to operate equipment * Develop an understanding of local utility infrastructure and regulations * Partner with experienced Locators to mark ...

Essel

Utilities Superintendent

Anaheim, CA · On-site

Additionally, the candidate should be proficient in SUE Utility locating and designating equipment within complex utility infrastructures. Responsibilities * Engage with staff at all levels ...

Essel

Utilities Superintendent

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Additionally, the candidate should be proficient in SUE Utility locating and designating equipment within complex utility infrastructures. Responsibilities * Engage with staff at all levels ...

Mark Thomas

SUE Technician I

Oakland, CA · On-site

$23 - $32/hr

RESPONSIBILITIES • Assists in using various utility locating techniques and equipment, such as electromagnetic locators and ground-penetrating radar (GPR), under direct supervision to identify and ...

Essel

Utilities Superintendent

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Additionally, the candidate should be proficient in SUE Utility locating and designating equipment within complex utility infrastructures. Responsibilities * Engage with staff at all levels ...

Essel

Utilities Superintendent

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Additionally, the candidate should be proficient in SUE Utility locating and designating equipment within complex utility infrastructures. Responsibilities * Engage with staff at all levels ...

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All JobsUtility Locating JobsUtility Locating Jobs in California

Utility Locating information

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.

What are popular job titles related to Utility Locating jobs in California?

For Utility Locating jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Utility Locating jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Utility Locating jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Utility Locating jobs?

Cities in California with the most Utility Locating job openings:

Utility Locating jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Locating job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 78% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution.

Program Manager Hydro Excavation & Utility Locating

JobFormance

Riverside, CA • On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Other

This job post has expired 3 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Program Manager Hydro Excavation & Utility Locating

We are seeking an experienced Program Manager Hydro Excavation & Utility Locating to lead, build, and grow a specialized underground utility services division throughout Southern California.

This is a senior, hands-on leadership position combining operations management, project management, business development, estimating, financial performance, fleet management, and strategic growth.

The Program Manager will oversee multiple hydrovac trucks, utility locating crews, field supervisors, and underground support operations while developing relationships with utility owners, municipalities, heavy civil contractors, and engineering firms.

The ideal candidate has a strong background in hydro excavation, utility locating, underground utilities, or heavy civil construction and understands how to build a safe, productive, and profitable field operation.

Key ResponsibilitiesOperations Leadership
  • Lead day-to-day operations of the Hydro Excavation & Utility Locating Division.
  • Manage multiple hydrovac trucks, utility locating crews, operators, field supervisors, and support personnel.
  • Coordinate manpower, equipment, trucks, and project schedules across multiple active jobs.
  • Develop daily and weekly schedules that maximize crew productivity and fleet utilization.
  • Monitor project execution to ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, on schedule, and within budget.
  • Coordinate hydro excavation and locating activities with active heavy civil and underground utility construction operations.
  • Develop and implement operating procedures that support consistent execution and continued growth.
  • Identify operational bottlenecks and implement improvements to increase efficiency and profitability.
  • Support emergency and priority utility response operations when required.
Project & Financial Management
  • Oversee multiple projects and service contracts simultaneously.
  • Develop annual budgets, revenue forecasts, and operating plans for the division.
  • Monitor job costs, labor productivity, equipment utilization, revenue, margins, and profitability.
  • Review project financial performance and identify corrective actions when costs or production deviate from expectations.
  • Establish and track operational KPIs for crews, equipment, and projects.
  • Support estimating, pricing, proposals, and contract negotiations.
  • Review labor, equipment, disposal, travel, and operational costs when developing project pricing.
  • Maintain accurate forecasting for staffing, fleet requirements, and future workload.
Business Development & Growth
  • Take an active role in expanding the division's customer base and revenue.
  • Develop relationships with: Utility Companies, Municipalities, Public Agencies, Heavy Civil Contractors, Underground Utility Contractors, General Engineering Contractors, Engineering & Consulting Firms.
  • Identify new hydro excavation, utility locating, and underground support opportunities.
  • Develop proposals and pricing for new and existing clients.
  • Expand service capabilities and identify complementary revenue opportunities.
  • Participate in client meetings, networking, and business development activities.
  • Partner with executive leadership on market expansion, fleet growth, capital investments, and strategic planning.
Client Management
  • Serve as a primary point of contact for key customers and contracts.
  • Develop long-term relationships with utility owners, contractors, municipalities, and engineering firms.
  • Coordinate project schedules and customer requirements.
  • Resolve field and operational issues quickly and professionally.
  • Manage customer expectations regarding schedule, production, safety, and project execution.
  • Identify opportunities for additional services and repeat business.
Team Development
  • Recruit, train, mentor, and retain field and operations personnel.
  • Provide leadership to Project Managers, Supervisors, Hydrovac Operators, Utility Locators, and field crews.
  • Establish clear expectations for safety, productivity, customer service, and accountability.
  • Develop future supervisors and operational leaders as the division grows.
  • Build staffing plans based on current workload and projected growth.
Core Service Experience

Candidates with experience in the following areas are highly preferred:

  • Hydro Excavation
  • Hydrovac Operations
  • Utility Locating
  • Potholing / Daylighting
  • Vacuum Excavation
  • Pole Excavation
  • Utility Exposure
  • Underground Utility Construction
  • Water & Sewer Utilities
  • Gas Utilities
  • Electrical Utilities
  • Telecommunications
  • Utility Coordination
  • Trenching & Excavation
  • Underground Infrastructure
  • Emergency Utility Response
  • Heavy Civil Construction
Safety & Compliance

The Program Manager will be responsible for maintaining a strong safety and compliance culture throughout the division.

Candidates should have knowledge of:

  • OSHA Requirements
  • Excavation & Trenching Safety
  • Underground Service Alert / 811 / DigAlert
  • Utility Owner Requirements
  • Environmental Compliance
  • Traffic Control Requirements
  • Public Works Requirements
  • Client-Specific Safety Programs
  • Incident Reporting
  • Job Hazard Analysis / JHA
  • Field Documentation
  • Equipment & Fleet Safety

The Program Manager will ensure field teams maintain required safety documentation, environmental records, project reporting, incident documentation, and quality standards.

Required Qualifications
  • 7+ years of experience in heavy civil construction, underground utilities, hydro excavation, utility locating, or related infrastructure services.
  • Demonstrated experience managing multiple field crews and projects simultaneously.
  • Strong understanding of underground utility construction and excavation operations.
  • Experience managing project schedules, budgets, job costs, and financial performance.
  • Strong knowledge of field production, equipment utilization, and workforce planning.
  • Proven ability to lead and develop field and operations personnel.
  • Strong customer relationship and communication skills.
  • Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced field-services environment.
  • Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities.
  • Valid driver's license required.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Direct management experience in hydro excavation / hydrovac operations.
  • Utility locating experience.
  • Underground utility construction experience.
  • Experience working with major utility owners.
  • Public utility contract experience.
  • Southern California utility market experience.
  • Heavy civil construction background.
  • Emergency response experience.
  • Fleet management experience.
  • Estimating and proposal development experience.
  • Business development experience.
  • Experience building or expanding a construction or utility services division.
Financial & Operational Expertise

The ideal candidate will have experience with:

  • Division / Program Budgeting
  • Revenue Forecasting
  • Job Costing
  • Profitability Analysis
  • Project Cost Control
  • Labor Productivity
  • Fleet Utilization
  • Equipment Cost Management
  • Workforce Planning
  • Project Scheduling
  • KPI Development & Tracking
  • Estimating & Pricing
  • Proposal Development
  • Contract Management
Ideal Candidate

We are looking for a builder and operator, not simply someone to maintain an existing operation.

The successful candidate will be comfortable moving between field operations, financial management, customer relationships, estimating, and business development.

One day may involve reviewing fleet utilization and job profitability; another may require resolving a

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