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Utility Locator Union Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Utility Locator Union information

How long is utility locator union training?

Utility locator union training typically lasts several weeks to a few months, depending on the program and the level of certification required. The training includes classroom instruction on safety, utility mapping, and the use of detection tools, followed by on-the-job training. Some unions also require apprenticeships that can extend training duration to up to three years.

What does a utility locator union worker do?

A Utility Locator Union worker is responsible for identifying and marking the locations of underground utilities, such as water, gas, electrical, and telecommunications lines, before excavation or construction projects begin. They use specialized equipment to detect and map subsurface utilities to prevent accidental damage during digging. Working as part of a union, these professionals benefit from collective bargaining for wages, safety, and job security. Their role is crucial in ensuring the safety of workers and the public, as well as minimizing service disruptions and avoiding costly repairs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a utility locator union worker?

To thrive as a Utility Locator (Union), you need strong knowledge of underground utility systems, map reading, and safety procedures, typically supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with electromagnetic locating equipment, GIS mapping software, and adherence to OSHA safety standards is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills are crucial for ensuring accuracy and safety on job sites. These competencies are vital to prevent utility damages, maintain public safety, and support efficient construction or maintenance projects.

Is a utility locator a good career?

A utility locator is a skilled profession that involves identifying underground utilities to prevent damage during construction or excavation. It often requires knowledge of mapping tools, safety protocols, and sometimes certification, making it a stable career with demand in construction, infrastructure, and public works sectors.

What are some common challenges utility locator union workers face in the field, and how are they supported on the job?

Utility Locator Union members often face challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, interpreting complex utility maps, and ensuring accuracy when marking underground utilities to prevent service interruptions or safety hazards. Teams typically receive ongoing training and support from union leadership, as well as access to advanced locating equipment. Furthermore, union members benefit from clear safety protocols, mentorship from experienced colleagues, and established channels for addressing workplace concerns, ensuring both individual and team success on the job.
What are the most commonly searched types of Utility Locator jobs in California? The most popular types of Utility Locator jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Utility Locator Union jobs in California? For Utility Locator Union jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Utility Locator Union jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Utility Locator Union jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Utility Locator Union jobs? Cities in California with the most Utility Locator Union job openings:
Infographic showing various Utility Locator Union job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Utility Installer Repairer Assistant

City of Palo Alto

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

$99K - $121K/yr

Other

Retirement

Posted 19 days ago


City Of Palo Alto rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

245th of 844 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description The City of Palo Alto Utilities: Palo Alto is a city in California that offers a full array of utility services to its citizens and businesses. Because of this, the City has a unique opportunity to partner with the Palo Alto community to enjoy the benefits and achievements of reliable, home-grown, and environmentally focused utilities. Palo Alto has a tradition of over 100 years of successful public utility operations.

It is a tradition that continues to provide the Palo Alto community with safe and reliable utilities service, local decision-making over policies, utility rate-making, environmental programs, and customized services. The Position: Under the guidance of an Installer/Repairer-Lead, or an Installer/Repairer, assists in the installation, repair and maintenance of the water, gas, and wastewater system facilities. An Installer/Repairer Assistant typically goes through a three-year rotation to achieve journey-level proficiency in all three of these underground utility services with the goal of becoming eligible to become a Utility Installer/Repairer.

Ideal Candidate Class B California Commercial Driver's License with Tanker Endorsement D1 Water Distribution Operator Certificate Three years of underground utility experience with each utility (water, gas, wastewater) Knowledge of valves, fittings, and clamps used in water, gas, and wastewater repairs Skilled in locating gas, water and sewer components using pipeline locating equipment, maps, and physical signs Compensation (SEIU): Comprehensive compensation plan. To learn more,click here. Benefits: The City offers a fantastic benefits package, including: Professional development: Tuition reimbursement, leadership training, and career growth opportunities Education benefits: Potential enrollment for dependents in the Palo Alto Unified School District (pilot program, subject to change) Childcare support: $10,000 in childcare subsidies (pilot program, subject to change) Commute benefits: Incentives for walking, biking, and taking transit to work.

The City of Palo Alto participates in the Clipper Bay Pass program (Employee Cost: $5 per month). Defined-Benefit Retirement Plan: with competitive pension benefits An eligible list may be established from this recruitment and may be used to fill future vacancies for up to six (6) months, or until the list has been exhausted. More than one position may be filled with this posting.

To learn more about benefits, click here. This position is part of the Service Employees' International Union (SEIU) Essential Duties Essential Duties Responds to USA mark and locate requests, marking water, gas, and wastewater mains and services in accordance with USA requirements. Locates and repairs water mains and services leaks; replaces galvanized water services with copper pipe; repairs service tap blow-outs, fire hydrant laterals, water valves, curb stops, and meter couplings; taps into existing water mains and installs water meters.

Locates and repairs gas mains and services leaks; installs P.E. gas mains and services; replaces leaking gas services; taps into existing gas mains; tests new gas installations; installs gas meters and regulators. Taps into existing sewer mains; repairs laterals and manholes; replaces sewer lateral traps with cleanouts; locates cleanouts; cleans and chemically treats sewer mains for root and rodent control

Records and diagrams completed for work orders and job prints for submittal to the supervisor. Sets up barricades, flashers, and cones to protect work sites. To review full job description, click here.

Minimum Qualifications Minimum Qualifications Sufficient education, training, and/or work experience to demonstrate possession of the following knowledge, skills, and abilities which would typically be acquired through: High school graduate or equivalent training and experience. One year of experience in construction, preferably in a position working with gas, water, or sewer systems, or experience in maintenance and operation of gas, water, or sewer systems. Underground construction experience preferred.

Special Requirements: Possession of a valid California Class B commercial driver's permit with appropriate endorsements is required within sixty days of appointment with the ability to obtain a license within six months of appointment. Supplemental Information Supplemental Information The Selection Process: Recruitment status notifications will be sent via email or text (please enroll in text alerts when applying). Updates can also be found on your governmentjobs.com account

Applicants will be screened throughout the posting process, and highly qualified candidates may be invited to interview at any time. The screening process for this position includes a panel interview and skills assessment preceding final interviews with the hiring manager or their designee. An eligible list may be established from this recruitment and may be used to fill future vacancies for up to six (6) months, or until the list has been exhausted.

More than one position may be filled with this posting. For technical issues applying online, please contact NeoGov's Live Applicant Support at (855) 524-5627 between 6:00 AM and 5:00 PM Pacific Time, Monday - Friday. The City of Palo Alto is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City will provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.


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