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Utility Locating Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

NORTHERN LIGHTS & JDH CONTRACTING

$18 - $30/hr

EXPERIENCED UTILITY LOCATORS WANTEDNorthern Lights Locating & Inspection, Inc. If you're an experienced Utility Locator who knows 811 law, takes pride in clean marks, and wants the freedom to run ...

NORTHERN LIGHTS & JDH CONTRACTING

$18 - $30/hr

EXPERIENCED UTILITY LOCATORS WANTEDNorthern Lights Locating & Inspection, Inc. If you're an experienced Utility Locator who knows 811 law, takes pride in clean marks, and wants the freedom to run ...

NORTHERN LIGHTS & JDH CONTRACTING

$20 - $28/hr

EXPERIENCED UTILITY LOCATORS WANTEDNorthern Lights Locating & Inspection, Inc. If you're an experienced Utility Locator who knows 811 law, takes pride in clean marks, and wants the freedom to run ...

NORTHERN LIGHTS & JDH CONTRACTING

$18 - $30/hr

EXPERIENCED UTILITY LOCATORS WANTEDNorthern Lights Locating & Inspection, Inc. If you're an experienced Utility Locator who knows 811 law, takes pride in clean marks, and wants the freedom to run ...

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All JobsUtility Locating JobsUtility Locating Jobs in Wisconsin

Utility Locating information

See Wisconsin salary details

$14

$18

$27

How much do utility locating jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility locating in Wisconsin is $18.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.53 and $19.42 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 Wisconsin?

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

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

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

What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Utility Locating jobs?

Cities in Wisconsin with the most Utility Locating job openings:

Utility Locating jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Locating job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,677 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Utility Locator

NORTHERN LIGHTS & JDH CONTRACTING

On-site

$18 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

EXPERIENCED UTILITY LOCATORS WANTEDNorthern Lights Locating & Inspection, Inc.

If you’re an experienced Utility Locator who knows 811 law, takes pride in clean marks, and wants the freedom to run your territory without micromanagement — Northern Lights wants to hear from you.

Northern Lights Locating and Inspection, Inc. has been protecting underground utility infrastructure since 2001. We operate 24/7/365 and work nationwide on critical utility locating, inspection, and sewer imaging projects. We go far beyond basic paint and flag work by using advanced technology and proven expertise to deliver accurate, reliable results.

POSITION: UTILITY LOCATOR

Status: Full-Time, Employee

Preferred Experience: Minimum 2 years utility locating experience 

WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING

• Locate underground utilities in compliance with all 811 dig laws
• Read and interpret utility maps, as-built drawings, and GIS data
• Use electronic locating equipment and multiple locating methods
• Accurately mark utilities using paint and flags
• Document all work using a mobile app including photos and reports
• Investigate and document excavation-related utility damages
• Participate in an on-call rotation

WHAT WE EXPECT

This is a professional role for self-motivated locators who can work independently. You must be willing to work in all weather conditions, maintain company equipment and vehicles, and communicate effectively with excavators, property owners, and team members.

Requirements:
• Strong knowledge of 811 laws and best locate practices
• Valid Driver’s License
• Ability to pass a drug screen
• Willingness to work overtime and flexible schedules
• Maintain a tobacco-free company vehicle
• Consistent attendance and punctuality

WHAT YOU GET

• Competitive pay (you will be paid from door to door)
• Paid holidays and paid time off
• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, STD and LTD insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Independence in your assigned work area
• Strong operational support and modern locating technology
• Nationwide project experience

WHO SUCCEEDS HERE

• Experienced locators who value accuracy and safety
• Professionals who work without supervision
• Team-oriented individuals with strong character

Ready to work hard, travel, and get paid? Apply today and join the Northern Lights team.

Apply