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Utility Locating Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Blood Hound

Advanced Locate Technician

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$25 - $29/hr

Join the Team That Sets the Standard in Utility Locating Ready to take your career to the next level with a company that truly values integrity, hard work, and growth? Blood Hound is USIC ...

Blood Hound

Advanced Locate Technician

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$25 - $29/hr

Join the Team That Sets the Standard in Utility Locating Ready to take your career to the next level with a company that truly values integrity, hard work, and growth? Blood Hound is USIC ...

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All JobsUtility Locating JobsUtility Locating Jobs in Iowa

Utility Locating information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$17

$25

How much do utility locating jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility locating in Iowa is $17.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $18.08 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.

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

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

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

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

Utility Locating jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Locating job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,992 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Locate Technician - Sioux City, IA and Surrounding Areas

Stake Center Locating

Correctionville, IA

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Stake Center Locating rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Summit Utility Services, LLC formed in mid 2011 as a response to the limited options available for utility companies needing secure locating services. We responded to industry needs and began locating in 2012. We are committed providing our customers the most efficient utility locating and damage prevention possible. Our asset is "Quality" employees and giving them a strong foundation to stand on while performing this service.

We are seeking reliable, detail-oriented individuals to join our team as Locate Technicians. We welcome experienced candidates as well as entry-level individuals. This role involves locating and marking underground utilities using specialized equipment to ensure safe digging and construction activities. No previous locating experience is necessarycomprehensive training will be provided.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Use company-provided tools and equipment to identify and mark the location of underground utility lines (such as fiber, gas, electric, and telecommunications).
  • Read and interpret utility maps and diagrams to determine location of buried services.
  • Accurately document work performed and complete reports using laptops, handheld devices or tablets.
  • Communicate effectively with contractors, homeowners, and other utility personnel.
  • Always ensure compliance with safety standards and company procedures.
  • Work independently in outdoor environments under various weather conditions.
  • Maintain company-issued equipment and vehicle in good condition.

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Valid drivers license with a clean driving record.
  • Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
  • Good communication and customer service abilities.
  • Comfortable working outdoors and on foot for extended periods.
  • Ability to follow procedures, safety protocols, and regulatory requirements.
  • Willingness to travel locally and work occasional overtime or weekends as needed.

Preferred But Not Required:

  • Experience in construction, utilities, landscaping, or other field work.
  • Basic knowledge of GPS or mobile mapping tools.

Training:
Full paid training will be provided. This includes classroom instruction and supervised fieldwork to ensure all new hires are fully prepared and confident in their role.

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