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Utility Locator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Utility Locator information

See Michigan salary details

$12

$16

$23

How much do utility locator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility locator in Michigan is $16.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.41 and $16.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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Utility Locators often encounter challenges such as inaccurate or outdated utility maps, congested underground infrastructure, and difficult terrain or weather conditions.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.

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 typically requires knowledge of mapping tools, safety procedures, and sometimes certification, offering steady employment and opportunities for advancement in the construction and infrastructure industries.

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.

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 Michigan?

The most popular types of Utility Locator jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Utility Locator jobs in Michigan?

For Utility Locator jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Utility Locator jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Utility Locator jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Utility Locator jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Utility Locator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Utility Locator jobs in MI?

For Utility Locator jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Utility Locator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Locator job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,399 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

General Laborer - Utility Locating - Detroit MI and Surrounding Areas

Stake Center Locating

Detroit, MI • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Stake Center Locating rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Utility Locator (Field Technician)
Starting pay $20.00!
More than a Job!
Stake Center Locating is hiring entry level Locate Technicians to locate underground utilities, troubleshoot, and mark the ground (using paint and flags), promoting damage prevention in your community. We will train you on the job and equip you with the basic skills to be successful in our 100% paid training. What you'll need to bring is a preference to work outdoors in all weather, a desire to work independently and an ability to problem solve with speed and accuracy.
What We Offer:
Since 1997, we have been on a mission to make Stake Center a great place to work. We have been working with our locators to make Stake Center the company of choice. What we offer:
  • Pay Rate: $20.00 per hour.
  • We provide late-model vehicles with a fuel card that allows you to avoid high gas prices on your daily commute. In fact, you take the vehicle home every night (for company use only)!
  • PTO and paid Holidays - best in class
  • We are providing vouchers that can be used on 300+ types of Red Wing safety shoes (a total of $200 after every twelve months of service).
  • 401(k) with company match

Key Responsibilities:
We will train entry level Locating Technicians to:
  • Think Safety First!
  • Use a laptop computer to receive, document and process tickets and email.
  • Read maps, interpret blueprints, and determine the best method & sequence for locating.
  • Use provided locate equipment & technology to accurately locate underground utilities.
  • Communicate effectively with peers, managers, and homeowners.

Qualifications:
  • Eighteen years of age or older.
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Valid driver license with an acceptable driving record.
  • Ability to walk up to 5 miles a day 2-3 times a week.
  • Ability to carry up to 5 lbs of electronic locating equipment for extended periods of time; lifting objects up to 25 lbs or lifting in excess of 75 lbs with tool aids.
  • Pass pre-employment background and drug screening.

Schedule:
  • Will need to have the ability to work a flexible schedule (some evenings, weekends, and an occasional Holiday) as ticket/production load requires.
  • Employees will respond to emergency calls during scheduled on-call shift rotation.

We understand what is at stake for our employees, our customers, and our customers' customers. That is why we continually invest in our people, equipment, and technology. To us you are a professional - this is a career not just a job!

What Stake Center Locating employees say

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