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Utility Locating Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Utilities One

Drill Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$300 - $350/day

Operate and locate utilities using an appropriate locating system; * Remove and transfer poles, set and install new underground cables; * Ensure proper clearances and compliance with installation ...

GridSource

Directional Drill Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$40/hr

Locate underground utilities and monitor locating process during drilling * Read prints and demonstrate good judgement in the field * Work as a team in tandem with supervisor, manager, and other crew ...

KERR MANAGEMENT COMPANY INC

Estimator

Woodburn, OR · On-site

... and underground utility contractors in the region. Our business is founded on trusting ... Analyzing plans and specifications, locating sub-contractors and suppliers, setting up online plan ...

KERR MANAGEMENT COMPANY INC

Estimator

Woodburn, OR

... and underground utility contractors in the region. Our business is founded on trusting ... Analyzing plans and specifications, locating sub-contractors and suppliers, setting up online plan ...

Kerr Contractors

Estimator

Woodburn, OR · On-site

... and underground utility contractors in the region. Our business is founded on trusting ... Analyzing plans and specifications, locating sub-contractors and suppliers, setting up online plan ...

Integrity Infrastructure

Driller/Locator

Sherwood, OR · On-site

$27 - $35/hr

The role of a Drill Operator and Locator includes operating directional drill rigs, locating ... Pothole all utilities that will either be paralleled or crossed during the bore shot. * Verify ...

HFW Companies

Identify and report field discrepancies, safety concerns, or potential project issues to the Party Chief. * Assist with locating property corners, benchmarks, utilities, and control points. * Clear ...

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All JobsUtility Locating JobsUtility Locating Jobs in Oregon

Utility Locating information

See Oregon salary details

$14

$19

$28

How much do utility locating jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility locating in Oregon is $19.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $20.34 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 Oregon?

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

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

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

Utility Locating jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Locating job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 78% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,514 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Drill Operator

Utilities One

Portland, OR • On-site

$300 - $350/day

Contractor

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Drill Operator
Department: Operations
Employment Type: Contract
Location: United States - Portland, OR
Reporting To: Denis Mezer
Compensation: $300 - $350 / day
Description
Utilities One is seeking an experienced Drill Operator with Spanish language skills to join our team in the Pacific Northwest Region. This role is ideal for candidates with strong experience in Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) and underground utility installation, who are ready to work in a fast-paced environment and contribute to high-quality infrastructure projects across the Pacific Northwest.
Key Responsibilities
  • Perform preparatory work before drilling operations;
  • Operate Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) machines for underground cable installation;
  • Install underground utilities, including boring, trenching, and related tasks;
  • Operate and locate utilities using an appropriate locating system;
  • Remove and transfer poles, set and install new underground cables;
  • Ensure proper clearances and compliance with installation standards;
  • Maintain the safety of the public and protect underground utility facilities;
  • Analyze job sites and complete required paperwork and documentation;
  • Investigate company service complaints and perform necessary repairs;
  • Travel to job sites as needed and perform assigned tasks with high quality and professionalism;
  • Perform other duties as assigned to support successful project completion.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
  • At least 2 years of HDD/Drilling experience;
  • Spanish Language is an advantage;
  • Valid Class A CDL required;
  • Proven experience operating heavy construction equipment, especially drilling and boring machinery;
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering plans and specifications;
  • Ability to sit, stand, bend, walk, and ride in vehicles for extended periods;
  • Willingness to work in all-weather environments and travel as needed.

Benefits
  • Competitive compensation;
  • Weekly payments (every Friday);
  • All equipment and tools provided;
  • Career advancement opportunities;
  • Weekly pay range varies depending on productivity (paid per foot).

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