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Utility Locator Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

Viaero Fiber Networks

Utility Locator

Columbus, NE · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Viaero Fiber is adding a utility locator to provide locating and protection of our fiber network in the Columbus, Nebraska/Norfolk, Nebraska region. Utility Locators with Viaero Fiber Networks are ...

Viaero Fiber Networks

Utility Locator

Norfolk, NE · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Viaero Fiber is adding a utility locator to provide locating and protection of our fiber network in the Columbus, Nebraska/Norfolk, Nebraska region. Utility Locators with Viaero Fiber Networks are ...

USIC

Utility Locator

Columbus, NE · On-site

$19/hr

Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground utilities, including telecommunications, electric power, cable TV, gas, water, and sewer systems.

USIC

Utility Locator

Wahoo, NE

$19/hr

Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground utilities, including telecommunications, electric power, cable TV, gas, water, and sewer systems.

USIC

Utility Locator

Wahoo, NE · On-site

$19/hr

Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground utilities, including telecommunications, electric power, cable TV, gas, water, and sewer systems.

USIC

Utility Locator

Omaha, NE

$21/hr

Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground utilities, including telecommunications, electric power, cable TV, gas, water, and sewer systems.

USIC

Utility Locator

Wahoo, NE · On-site

$19/hr

Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground utilities, including telecommunications, electric power, cable TV, gas, water, and sewer systems.

USIC

Utility Locator

Columbus, NE

$19/hr

Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground utilities, including telecommunications, electric power, cable TV, gas, water, and sewer systems.

USIC

Utility Locator

Omaha, NE · On-site

$21/hr

Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground utilities, including telecommunications, electric power, cable TV, gas, water, and sewer systems.

USIC

Utility Locator

Columbus, NE · On-site

$19/hr

Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground utilities, including telecommunications, electric power, cable TV, gas, water, and sewer systems.

USIC

Utility Locator

Omaha, NE · On-site

$21/hr

Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground utilities, including telecommunications, electric power, cable TV, gas, water, and sewer systems.

USIC

Utility Locator

Omaha, NE · On-site

$21/hr

Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground utilities, including telecommunications, electric power, cable TV, gas, water, and sewer systems.

USIC

Utility Locator

Seward, NE

$19/hr

Your Responsibilities as a Locator: * Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground utilities, including telecommunications, electric power, cable TV, gas, water, and sewer systems.

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All JobsUtility Locator JobsUtility Locator Jobs in Nebraska

Utility Locator information

See Nebraska salary details

$13

$17

$25

How much do utility locator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility locator in Nebraska is $17.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $18.32 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 Nebraska? The most popular types of Utility Locator jobs in Nebraska are:
What are popular job titles related to Utility Locator jobs in Nebraska? For Utility Locator jobs in Nebraska, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Utility Locator jobs in Nebraska look for? The top searched job categories for Utility Locator jobs in Nebraska are:
What cities in Nebraska are hiring for Utility Locator jobs? Cities in Nebraska with the most Utility Locator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Utility Locator jobs in NE? For Utility Locator jobs in NE, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Utility Locator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Locator job openings in Nebraska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,535 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Utility Locator

Viaero Fiber Networks

Columbus, NE • On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Viaero Fiber is adding a utility locator to provide locating and protection of our fiber network in the Columbus, Nebraska/Norfolk, Nebraska region. Utility Locators with Viaero Fiber Networks are responsible for identifying and accurately marking the location of our underground utility lines by utilizing electromagnetic locators, ensuring safe excavation practices for construction projects by communicating findings to contractors, clients and our office staff while adhering to industry safety standards and regulations. We complete Standbys on projects that will require excavations within 4 feet of our fiber line.

As a utility line locator, you would be responsible for completing all assigned tickets by their scheduled due date. Completing tickets consists of accurately locating and marking existing underground fiber optic lines, taking clear photos of your markings, and entering needed notes of the locate into our system. It also consists of scheduling and completing standbys with project managers.

Essential Functions

  • Be able to follow driving directions from 811 One-Calls
  • Be able to walk 3 to 5 miles a day, if needed, carrying equipment
  • Be at least 21, and have a valid driver's license with good driving record
  • Ability to work in extreme outdoor weather
  • Ability to adapt to adverse situations
  • Ability to learn new devices and changing laws
  • Keep the immediate supervisor/manager aware of any issues or problems in the field
  • Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground utilities
  • Thoroughly search for underground utilities in a designated area, accurately marking location and completing.
  • Demonstrate good time management skills.
  • Willingness to learn skills and to help in other areas of the department

Job Duties and Responsibilities

  • Locate Utilities: Utilize specialized equipment to detect and pinpoint the location of underground fiber optic line.
  • Marking and Flagging: Clearly mark the location of detected utilities using flags, paint, or stakes to indicate the precise path of underground lines to excavation crews.
  • Data Recording: Maintain accurate records of utility locations, including depth, type, and any relevant observations, using electronic data collection systems and field documentation.
  • Site Assessment: Conduct pre-construction site surveys to identify potential utility conflicts and coordinate with project stakeholders to ensure safe excavation procedures. Requires analytical and problem-solving skills, and good decision-making skills.
  • Customer Interaction: Communicate effectively with contractors, property owners, and project managers regarding utility locations and potential risks. Effective verbal and listening skills.
  • Safety Compliance: Adhere to all safety protocols and procedures related to utility locating, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment and following industry standards.

Required Skills

  • Technical Skills: Proficient in operating various utility locating equipment. Proficient computer skills.
  • Map Reading: Ability to interpret and read utility maps, blueprints, and construction plans accurately. Ability to maneuver Google Earth and other map functions.
  • Attention to Detail: High level of accuracy and precision when marking utility locations and documenting information.
  • Physical Fitness: Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions, walk long distances and work on construction sites. Able to bend and lift up to 50lbs.
  • Communication Skills: Effective verbal and written communication to convey information clearly to clients, contractors and office staff.
  • Valid Driver's License: Must have a clean MVR and be comfortable driving in both rural and city environments.
  • Pass a Drug Screen: This is a safety-sensitive position. Our substance screening follows federal law.
  • Pass a Background Check: Must meet standards for criminal background.
  • Availability to be On Call: Our Technicians are required to be on a rotating on-call schedule for evenings and weeks, including all holidays.