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Utility Locating Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

Utility Locator

Beltsville, MD · On-site

$20 - $24/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 ...

Construction Laborer

Sterling, VA

$18 - $23/hr

Utility Services Field Technician - Subsurface Utility Locating Outdoor field experience required. Join a leading subsurface utility exploration provider as a Utility Services Field Technician ...

Utility Services Field Technician - Subsurface Utility Locating Outdoor field experience required. Join a leading subsurface utility exploration provider as a Utility Services Field Technician ...

Construction Laborer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Utility Services Field Technician - Subsurface Utility Locating Outdoor field experience required. Join a leading subsurface utility exploration provider as a Utility Services Field Technician ...

Field Geophysicist

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$62K - $87K/yr

Perform non-invasive geophysical surveys from the ground surface to aid in locating underground utilities. Define survey objectives, design survey approaches, analyze the resulting geophysical data ...

Perform non-invasive geophysical surveys from the ground surface to aid in locating underground utilities. Define survey objectives, design survey approaches, analyze the resulting geophysical data ...

SUE Field Technician

Washington, DC · On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

Travel to assigned work site and perform utility designation, (identifying and marking underground facilities) * Use electromagnetic locating equipment and follow the AMT designating process to ...

SUE Field Technician

Washington, DC

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

Travel to assigned work site and perform utility designation, (identifying and marking underground facilities) * Use electromagnetic locating equipment and follow the AMT designating process to ...

We offer a comprehensive suite of Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE), private utility locating, and services to our diverse customer base comprised of Engineering, Environmental, Utility, Surveying ...

We offer a comprehensive suite of Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE), private utility locating, and services to our diverse customer base comprised of Engineering, Environmental, Utility, Surveying ...

We offer a comprehensive suite of Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE), private utility locating, and services to our diverse customer base comprised of Engineering, Environmental, Utility, Surveying ...

We offer a comprehensive suite of Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE), private utility locating, and services to our diverse customer base comprised of Engineering, Environmental, Utility, Surveying ...

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Utility Locating information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$14

$19

$27

How much do utility locating jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility locating in Silver Spring, MD is $19.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $19.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs make $3,000 a day?

In the utility locating field, highly experienced professionals such as senior utility coordinators or specialized contractors working on large infrastructure projects can earn around $3,000 per day, especially when working overtime or on high-value projects. These roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and the ability to operate specialized equipment in demanding environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Utility Locator, and why are they important?

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 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.

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.

How much do utility locators make?

Utility locators in Florida typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000. Compensation can vary based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the job environment.

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 are utility locators and what do they do?

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.

How hard is it to be a utility locator?

Utility locators identify underground utility lines using specialized equipment such as ground-penetrating radar and electromagnetic detectors. The job requires attention to detail, knowledge of safety protocols, and often some technical training or certification, but it is generally considered accessible with proper training and experience.
What job categories do people searching Utility Locating jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Utility Locating jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Utility Locating jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Utility Locating job openings:
Infographic showing various Utility Locating job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 38% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,613 per year, or $19 per hour.
Utility Locator

$20 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Dycom Industries rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Beltsville, MD | Pasadena, MD | Columbia, MD | Rockville, MD
Workplace Type: Field
Employment Type: Hourly
Discover a more connected career
At UtiliQuest, as a Utility Locator, you'll learn safety rules and techniques to find underground utility lines. You'll work with experienced locators, use special tools, and record findings to ensure construction projects are safe and efficient.
UtiliQuest supports utility operators throughout America to prevent damages to their infrastructure. Reliably completing millions of locate requests each year assisting project owners and managers in achieving safer excavations and reducing damages to the underground infrastructure. We utilize modern technologies and skilled professionals to deliver timely, reliable, and accurate locate services to protect utility operators' infrastructure throughout America. We are committed to conducting business with the highest standards of integrity and ethics, and with abiding respect for corporate citizenship and sustainability.
Connecting you to great benefits
  • Weekly Paychecks
  • Paid Time Off, Parental Leave, and Holidays
  • Insurance (including medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, disability, life insurance)
  • 401(k) w/ Company Match
  • Stock Purchase Plan
  • Education Reimbursement
  • Legal Insurance
  • Discounts on gym memberships, pet insurance, and much more!

What you'll do
  • 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 underground utility lines
  • Operate utility locating equipment
  • Document findings using digital mapping tools
  • Operate company vehicle in a safe manner
  • Work overtime, travel, and perform on-call/afterhours responsibilities as needed
  • Participate in classroom and field training sessions
  • Completes and maintains all training
  • Drive safely and follow company safe driving policies
  • Maintain punctuality and attendance at all shifts and training sessions
  • Be able to perform manhole entry using assigned equipment and safety devices
  • Perform work in all weather conditions, during normal and after hours
  • Regular use of hands and fingers to operate specialized equipment and tools
  • Reaching overhead above the shoulders and horizontally; bending at the waist; standing and or walking for extended periods of time
  • Ability to carry 3-5 lbs electronic locating equipment for extended periods of time; lifting objects up to 50 pounds or lifting in excess of 50 lbs with tool aids
  • Hearing and speaking to exchange information
  • The employee shall follow all safety rules at all times
  • Will need to have the ability to work a flexible schedule (some evenings and weekends) as ticket/production load requires
  • Employee will respond to emergency calls during scheduled on-call shift rotation

What you'll need
  • To be 18 years of age or older
  • Authorization to work in the United States for this company
  • High School Diploma, GED equivalent, or relevant work experience
  • Valid State driver's license (cannot be Provisional), including an acceptable MVR record

Physical abilities & exposures
  • Routinely: work alone in remote locations with arms above shoulder level, operate vehicle, squeeze, fine hand motion, bend, stoop, stand, walk, lift up to 55 pounds, use keyboard and mouse
  • Occasionally: use portable ladder, work in confined spaces and climb stairs
  • mouse and carry 3-5 lb electronic locating equipment for extended periods of time, perform work in all weather conditions
  • Occasionally: work in confined spaces and climb stairs, walk on uneven ground and terrain

Transferable or related skills for this role: Facility Maintenance, Technician, route driver, meter reading, landscaping, working outdoors, pest control, surveying, military, ready to work, underground utility locating, construction and laborer
The wage range for Utility Locator is $20.00 - $24.00
Why work with us
Your career here is more than just a job - it's your pathway to opportunity. Our hands-on training, supportive environment, and responsive leadership connect you to work with purpose. Our commitment to you extends beyond professional development to a safety-first culture that ensures you can do what you do best, with peace of mind.
Building stronger solutions together
Our company is an equal-opportunity employer - we are committed to providing a work environment where everyone can thrive, grow, and feel connected.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
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