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Utility Locator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Timmons Group

Underground Utility Locator

Richmond, VA · On-site

$21 - $28/hr

The Underground Utility Locator assists the survey crew by locating and marking underground utilities for various projects. This position can be an in-office and field combination for the right ...

USIC

Utility Locator

South Boston, VA

$20/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

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$20/hr

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

Davis H Elliot Company, Inc.

Utility Locator

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Description For over seven decades investor-owned utilities, municipalities, cooperatives, and others have entrusted their electrical construction and maintenance needs to Davis H. Elliot Company ...

Davis H Elliot Company, Inc.

Utility Locator

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

Description For over seven decades investor-owned utilities, municipalities, cooperatives, and others have entrusted their electrical construction and maintenance needs to Davis H. Elliot Company ...

Davis H Elliot Company, Inc.

Utility Locator

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

Description For over seven decades investor-owned utilities, municipalities, cooperatives, and others have entrusted their electrical construction and maintenance needs to Davis H. Elliot Company ...

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All JobsUtility Locator JobsUtility Locator Jobs in Virginia

Utility Locator information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$18

$26

How much do utility locator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility locator in Virginia is $18.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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.

Is a utility locator a good career?

Utility locators identify underground utilities to prevent damage during construction or excavation, making it a vital role in construction and infrastructure projects. The job typically requires knowledge of mapping tools, safety procedures, and sometimes certifications, with opportunities for steady employment and advancement in the field.
More about Utility Locator jobs

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

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

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

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

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Cities in Virginia with the most Utility Locator job openings:

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

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

Utility Locator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Locator job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,990 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Underground Utility Locator

Richmond, VA • On-site

Timmons Group
Civil Engineering Construction • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Timmons Groupexternal

$21 - $28/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Locates and marks underground utilities using electromagnet equipment and other geophysical means.

  • Designates all utility line types and marks utilities with flags and/or paint, producing sketches of results for clients.

  • Oversees maintenance of survey equipment, supplies, and vehicle.

Timmons Group rating

9.7

Company rating: 9.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Company Description
Job Description
Timmons Group is currently seeking an Underground Utility Locator to join our Survey Group located in our Richmond, VA office location. The Underground Utility Locator assists the survey crew by locating and marking underground utilities for various projects. This position can be an in-office and field combination for the right candidate.
Essential duties and Responsibilities of a successful candidate include but are not limited to:
  • Provides underground utility flagging "designation" with proficiency utilizing electromagnet equipment and other geophysical means
  • Designates all utility line types of conductive or non-conductive materials including water, sewer, gas, electric, fiber optic, PVC, and all other underground facilities that would affect an excavation of a site
  • Marks utilities with flags and/or paint and produce a sketch of results for future use by the client
  • May be required to learn how to establish survey control and perform locations of utility designation markings using conventional survey equipment including robotic total stations and RTK GPS technology
  • Oversees maintenance of survey equipment, supplies and vehicle
  • Candidate must be able to work in a team environment, and be willing to work independently on occasion

Skills/Requirements of a successful candidate include but are not limited to:
  • High school diploma/GED and five (5) years of SUE designation and field survey experience is ideal
  • Clear understanding of ASCE 38-02 standards and quality levels and their applications
  • Experience with robotic total stations, data collectors and GPS is preferred
  • Must be able to obtain and hold a federal security clearance
  • AutoCAD experience a plus
  • Valid NC driver license and a good driving record required
  • Must be willing to travel on occasion

Compensation: Our best estimate of the salary range for this position is $21/hr.-$28/hr. This position is eligible for overtime. Offers are based on a range of job-related factors such as internal equity, experience, skills, education, credentials and role complexity. Information on our comprehensive benefits package be found here.
Qualifications
Additional Information
The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skills and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
We are looking for high energy, creative, flexible, patient, self-starters who are willing to work at a dynamic pace. Candidates must share a commitment to our company's Vision, Mission and Shared Values.
Timmons Group is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.
Timmons Group is a full-service engineering and technology firm recognized nationally as a "Best Firm to Work For" by CE News. With 21 offices throughout the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast, we provide civil engineering, environmental, economic development, GIS/geospatial technology, landscape architecture, and surveying services to a diverse client base. As one of Engineering News Record's (ENR) Top 500 Design Firms for over 30 years, we are dedicated to being an employer of choice and providing our people with the best resources, technology, and culture to help them thrive in an engaging career development setting. For more information, visit www.timmons.com.
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