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$26

How much do utility locating jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility locating in the United States is $18.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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making it challenging to accurately identify and mark underground utilities, especially in areas with congested or outdated maps.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.

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.

More about Utility Locating jobs
What cities are hiring for Utility Locating jobs? Cities with the most Utility Locating job openings:
What states have the most Utility Locating jobs? States with the most job openings for Utility Locating jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Utility Locating jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Utility Locating jobs are:
Utility Locating jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Locating job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 56% Full Time, and 43% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,319 per year, or $18.4 per hour.
Private Utility Locators - Louisville, KY

Private Utility Locators - Louisville, KY

Mason Private Locating LLC

Louisville, KY • On-site

$21 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

About Mason Private Locating
Mason Private Locating is an underground utility locating company based out of the Midwest. Mason Private Locating specializes in private utility locating, ground penetrating radar (GPR), sub-surface utility engineering (SUE) services, robotic pipe inspections, and cross-bore mitigation. Our team is comprised of industry veterans with decades of underground utility experience. Mason Private Locating leverages the latest state-of-the-art equipment and technology in order to confirm that all underground private utilities are identified.
Description
Mason Private Locating is expanding its Midwest market and seeking Utility Locating Technicians in Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Cincinnati, and Louisville. Technicians will work hourly, locating privately owned utilities primarily in Indiana, Ohio & Kentucky.
We provide full paid training, benefits, a company take-home vehicle, and the chance to join a fast-growing company built on strong team values.
Utility Locator Requirements
  • 1+ years utility locating experience is required.
  • Prior construction experience is a plus.
  • Pass Physical & Pre-Employment Drug Screen
  • Valid Drivers License
  • High School Diploma or equivalent required
  • Standard Monday-Friday schedule with additional on-call and overtime as required

Responsibilities
  • Properly identify and mark underground utilities
  • Ability to read and interpret utility maps/prints
  • Ability to walk on all types of terrain (grass, gravel, dirt and roadways).
  • Ability to work year-round in all outside weather conditions
  • Out of town travel may be occasionally required.
  • May be required to work day, evening or night hours, overtime, weekends
  • Accurately document and complete paperwork/deliverables for each job
  • Follow all safety practices and procedures
  • Strong communication with teammates and clients
  • Perform other related duties as assigned

Why Mason Private Locating?
  • Top-Tier Training: We'll equip you with the skills you need to succeed.
  • Comprehensive Benefits: Health, vision, and dental insurance, plus paid time off, holiday pay, and incentive programs.
  • Competitive Pay & Perks: Earn $21-$30/hour, attendance bonuses, and a company truck.
  • Advancement Opportunities: Grow with us as we expand across the Midwest.

Benefits
  • 401(k) + Employer Matching
  • Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Short & Long Term Disability
  • Paid Training
  • Company Truck
  • Paid Time Off
  • Company Paid Holidays (including your birthday!)
  • Incentive Programs
  • Opportunities for Advancement
  • Competitive & Per-diem Pay

Apply