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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.

$33.33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

About the organization: Compass Family Services is a 100+ year old nonprofit working on the front lines of San Francisco's homeless crisis. We provide families experiencing or at risk of homelessness with comprehensive support to address immediate needs and ensure long-term success.

About the team: The Compass Housing Location Services (CHLS) team empowers San Francisco families to find safe, stable, affordable housing. Families receive assistance with housing search, including support with unit viewings, landlord advocacy, application submission, denial appeal, and move-in costs. CHLS serves families in existing Compass subsidy programs as well as those outside the traditional homelessness response system.

Compensation: $33.33 per hour

Schedule: Full time, Monday - Friday. Primarily during standard business hours; occasional evening and/or weekend responsibilities

Location: Fully in-person, both at 1240 Market Street in San Francisco, and in the community

Organizational Core Competencies: Accountable / Adaptable / Client-centered / Collaborative / Committed to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging / Resourceful

Description:
Housing Locators help families who have been approved for rental assistance find apartments or houses that they can rent. On the family side, this means explaining our rental assistance program, going to visit open units, and supporting them through the various steps needed to sign a lease and move in. On the landlord side, this means reaching out to property managers and landlords, being an advocate for the program, and helping them understand how the process works from the landlord side.

Specific responsibilities include:

  • Develop positive relationships with families that foster connection, support, and trust.
  • Help families find housing, including coaching through the search process, accompanying to open houses, and speaking with landlords on their behalf.
  • Create and maintain relationships with landlords and act as a liaison between the client and the landlord/property manager.
  • Maintain contact with clients and landlords/property managers through frequent meetings, emails, and phone calls.
  • Maintain up-to-date and thorough client files, both paper and electronic.
  • Perform unit inspections and complete certification reports.

Qualifications:

  • Valid CA Driver's license required, along with ability to be approved as a Zipcar driver (no significant negative incidents on driving record).
  • Fluency or a high level of professional proficiency in Spanish and English is required.
  • Experience with housing navigation/housing search is highly preferred.
  • Understanding of the issues low-income families and families experiencing homeless face.
  • Strong sense of professionalism and advocacy for working with landlords and property managers
  • Outstanding work habits: punctuality, communication, reliability, cooperation, professionalism. Ability to work independently and to juggle many responsibilities concurrently.
  • Knowledge of social service resources in the Bay Area.
  • Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging work.

Compensation and Benefits:

  • Salary range: $33.33 per hour
  • Paid time off: 4 weeks of vacation your first year, 5 in your second. Also paid holidays, sick time, family leave.
  • Insurance: health, dental and vision insurance are fully covered by Compass for employees and dependent children. We also provide long term disability and life insurance.
  • Retirement: after one year of work, Compass contributes an amount equal to 5% of your salary into a retirement account; this vests during years 2-6.
  • Membership in OPEIU/Local 29 union

To Apply:
Please apply through our online application.

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. We are an equal opportunity employer and actively seek to recruit a diverse workforce. Employees must embrace the idea that Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging contribute to the success of our underserved communities, and therefore to shared prosperity in our city and region. Compass Family Services is committed to the continuous work of implementing specific actions that will disrupt systemic prejudice and improve equity across programs and departments, to become an example to partners who also believe in a culture of inclusion that leverages diversity.

Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act and California civil rights law, Compass Family Services will provide reasonable accommodation when requested by a qualified applicant or candidate with a disability, unless such accommodation would cause an undue hardship for the agency. Requests for reasonable accommodation apply to all aspects of the hiring process. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please use the answer box for the final question of the job application to let us know.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME