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Utility Locator Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

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Utility Locator information

See Delaware salary details

$13

$18

$26

How much do utility locator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility locator in Delaware is $18.44, 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.

Is utility locating a good career?

Utility locating is a stable career that involves identifying underground utilities to prevent damage during construction or excavation. It requires skills in using specialized tools like ground-penetrating radar and often involves certifications and safety training. The job offers steady employment opportunities in construction, infrastructure, and civil engineering sectors.

What are some common challenges Utility Locators face in the field, and how can they overcome them?

Utility Locators often encounter challenges such as inaccurate or outdated utility maps, congested underground infrastructure, and difficult terrain or weather conditions. To overcome these, they rely on advanced locating equipment, thorough pre-job planning, and clear communication with utility companies and contractors. Ongoing training and staying current with industry standards also help Utility Locators accurately identify and mark utilities, reducing the risk of damage or service interruptions.

What does it take to become a Utility Locator?

To become a utility locator, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with training in underground utility mapping and safety procedures. Certification in utility locating tools and equipment, such as ground-penetrating radar or electromagnetic locators, is often preferred, and on-the-job training is common to develop skills in identifying underground utilities safely and accurately.

What jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

Utility locators typically do not earn $10,000 a month without specialized experience or certifications; most earn lower wages. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree include certain sales roles, skilled trades like commercial plumbing or electrical work, and entrepreneurship in fields such as real estate or online business. These roles often require on-the-job training, technical skills, or licensing rather than formal degrees.

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 solid understanding of utility systems, map reading, and safety protocols, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Proficiency with electromagnetic locating equipment, GPS devices, and utility mapping software is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are important soft skills that set top performers apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for accurately identifying underground utilities and preventing costly or dangerous excavation errors.

How much do pipeline locators make?

Pipeline locators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled locators who operate advanced detection tools and work in hazardous environments may earn higher wages and overtime pay.

What Does a Utility Locator Do?

As a utility locator, your job is to locate, identify, and mark underground utilities before construction or other projects in an area. As part of this, you may research the history of utility in the areas, document any irregularities, enforce utility separation requirements, and provide customer support for contractors and homeowners. In some cases, you may also need to operate small or medium-sized vehicles, direct traffic away from a work site, review proposed construction plans, act independently, or attend inspection meetings. Many utility locators are responsible for enforcing occupational safety requirements in any area they visit. Utility Locators are often, but not always, government employees. Private companies may have additional requirements for this position, including the ability to do administrative work.

What is the difference between Utility Locator vs Pipe Locator?

AspectUtility LocatorPipe Locator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, utility locating certificationsOSHA safety training, utility locating certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, urban and rural areasConstruction sites, urban and rural areas
Industry UsageUtility locating for various underground servicesLocating underground pipes, especially water, gas, or sewer lines
Search IntentFinding underground utilities to prevent damageLocating underground pipes for repair or installation

Utility Locators and Pipe Locators often share similar skills and work environments, but Utility Locators have a broader focus on various underground utilities, while Pipe Locators specialize in underground pipes. Both roles require safety certifications and are essential in construction and infrastructure projects to prevent damage and ensure safety.

What does a Utility Locator do?

A Utility Locator is responsible for identifying and marking the position of underground utilities such as gas, water, sewer, electric, and telecommunications lines before excavation or construction work begins. They use specialized equipment, such as electromagnetic sensors and ground-penetrating radar, to detect and map the location of buried infrastructure. This work helps prevent damage to utilities, ensures worker safety, and reduces the risk of service disruptions. Utility Locators also maintain records of their findings and often communicate with contractors, utility companies, and local authorities.
More about Utility Locator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Utility Locator jobs in Delaware? The most popular types of Utility Locator jobs in Delaware are:
What are popular job titles related to Utility Locator jobs in Delaware? For Utility Locator jobs in Delaware, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Utility Locator jobs in Delaware look for? The top searched job categories for Utility Locator jobs in Delaware are:
What cities in Delaware are hiring for Utility Locator jobs? Cities in Delaware with the most Utility Locator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Utility Locator jobs in DE? For Utility Locator jobs in DE, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Utility Locator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Locator job openings in Delaware as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,352 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Utility Locator - DE/EMD - Field Georgetown Federalsburg

Cable Protection Services, Inc

Seaford, DE • On-site

$19 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

A utility locator is a person or company specializing in identifying and marking the location of underground utilities (like pipes and cables) before construction or excavation work begins, using specialized equipment and techniques to ensure safety and prevent damage. Utility locators play a crucial role in preventing accidents and damage to underground infrastructure during construction projects.
How they work: They use specialized equipment like ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and electromagnetic (EM) locators to detect and map the location, depth, and direction of buried utilities. They may also use tracer wires or transmitter/receiver systems to locate and trace utilities. Once the utilities are located, they mark the area with flags, paint, or other visual markers to indicate their location and electronically document.
Why they are important: Damage to underground utilities can cause serious accidents, injuries, and property damage, as well as costly repairs and disruptions to essential services. Utility locators are often contracted by One-Call/811 centers to provide locating services for excavation projects and must adhere to the guidelines of 811 ONE CALL systems and any state regulated requirements
Types of utilities located: Water and irrigation pipes, Gas and oil lines, Electrical power lines, Communication lines, Sewers and drainage
Requirements:
  • Valid Driver's License: A valid driver's license is typically required to operate company vehicles.
  • Safe Driving Record: A clean driving record is often a requirement.
  • Ability to Work Outdoors: Utility locating work is often done outdoors in various weather conditions.
  • Computer Proficiency: Some positions may require basic computer skills.
  • Ability to Distinguish Colors: Being able to distinguish between colors used to identify wiring and mark underground utilities is important.
  • Ability to Lift and Move Equipment: Utility locators may need to lift and move equipment up to 50 pounds or more.
  • 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 and carry 3-15 lb electronic locating equipment for extended periods of time, perform work in all weather conditions, operate a company vehicle in safe manner, work overtime, possible travel, and perform on-call/after hours responsibilities on a rotating schedule

Benefits
  • Paid Training Program
  • Paid Travel Expenses
  • Company "take home" Vehicle and fuel card
  • Uniform attire and safety equipment
  • Paid Time Off and Holidays
  • Insurance (including medical, prescription, dental, vision, disability, life insurance)
  • 401(k) w/ Company Match
  • Quarterly, Anniversary, Birthday, Christmas Bonus
  • Cellular discounts
  • Company phone or "Bring your own Phone program"

Ability to Pass a Drug Screen: Many companies require applicants to pass a pre-employment drug screen.

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