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Utility Locator Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Utility Locator

Milwaukie, OR · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Hourly Discover a more connected career At Locating, Inc., as a Trainee Locator, you'll learn safety rules and techniques to find underground utility lines. You'll work with experienced locators, use ...

Utility Locator

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Hourly Discover a more connected career At Locating, Inc., as a Trainee Locator, you'll learn safety rules and techniques to find underground utility lines. You'll work with experienced locators, use ...

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

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

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

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

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

GridSource is seeking a Directional Drill Locator in Portland, OR. Pay Rate: $40 per hour Sign-On ... GridSource is a full-service utility contractor specializing in construction for the ...

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Utility Locator information

See Oregon salary details

$14

$19

$28

How much do utility locator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility locator in Oregon is $19.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $20.34 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Utility Locators often encounter challenges such as inaccurate or outdated utility maps, congested underground infrastructure, and difficult terrain or weather conditions.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.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Utility locators typically do not earn $4,000 a week without specialized experience or certifications. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include skilled trades such as commercial truck drivers, elevator installers, or certain construction supervisors, which require technical training or apprenticeships. These roles may involve physical work, certifications, or licensing but do not always require a college degree.

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 hard is it to be a utility locator?

Becoming a utility locator requires physical stamina, attention to detail, and knowledge of underground utility systems. The job often involves working outdoors in various weather conditions and using tools like ground-penetrating radar and utility maps. Certification and training are typically needed to ensure safety and accuracy.

How to get a utility locator job?

To become a utility locator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with training in underground utility mapping and safety procedures. Certification in utility locating or related skills, familiarity with locating tools like ground-penetrating radar, and a valid driver's license are often required; some employers also prefer prior experience in construction or surveying. Applying through utility companies, construction firms, or specialized locating services and demonstrating attention to safety and accuracy can improve job prospects.

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 does a utility locator worker do?

A utility locator worker identifies and marks underground utility lines such as gas, water, electric, and telecommunications to prevent damage during construction or excavation. They use specialized tools like ground-penetrating radar and utility maps, often working outdoors and requiring safety training and certifications. Their work helps ensure safe and efficient project execution by preventing utility strikes.

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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Utility Locator jobs in Oregon? The most popular types of Utility Locator jobs in Oregon are:
What are popular job titles related to Utility Locator jobs in Oregon? For Utility Locator jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Utility Locator jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Utility Locator jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Utility Locator jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Utility Locator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Utility Locator jobs in OR? For Utility Locator jobs in OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Utility Locator job openings in Oregon as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,514 per year, or $19.5 per hour.
Utility Locator

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Dycom Industries rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Happy Valley, OR | Lake Oswego, OR | Milwaukie, OR | Lake Oswego, OR
Workplace Type: Field
Employment Type: Hourly
Discover a more connected career
At Locating, Inc., as a Trainee Locator, you'll learn safety rules and techniques to find underground utility lines. You'll work with experienced locators, use special tools, and record findings to ensure construction projects are safe and efficient.
Connecting you to great benefits
  • Weekly Paychecks
  • Paid Time Off, Parental Leave, and Holidays
  • Insurance (including medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, disability, life insurance)
  • 401(k) w/ Company Match
  • Stock Purchase Plan
  • Education Reimbursement
  • Legal Insurance
  • Discounts on gym memberships, pet insurance, and much more!

What you'll do
  • Learn utility locating techniques, safety protocols and how to operate equipment
  • Develop an understanding of local utility infrastructure and regulations
  • Partner with experienced Locators to mark underground utility lines
  • Operate utility locating equipment
  • Document findings using digital mapping tools
  • Perform work in all weather conditions

What you'll need
  • To be 18 years of age or older
  • Authorization to work in the United States for this company
  • High School Diploma, GED equivalent, or relevant work experience
  • Valid State driver's license (cannot be Provisional), including an acceptable MVR record

Physical abilities & exposures
  • 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
  • Occasionally: use portable ladder, work in confined spaces and climb stairs

The wage range for Utility Locator is $22.00 - $25.00
Why work with us
Your career here is more than just a job - it's your pathway to opportunity. Our hands-on training, supportive environment, and responsive leadership connect you to work with purpose. Our commitment to you extends beyond professional development to a safety-first culture that ensures you can do what you do best, with peace of mind.
Building stronger solutions together
Our company is an equal-opportunity employer - we are committed to providing a work environment where everyone can thrive, grow, and feel connected.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
Req Id:

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