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Utility Locator Jobs in Athens, AL (NOW HIRING)

Madison County, AL

Water Utility Worker I

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$37K - $59K/yr

Salary : $37,336.00 - $59,633.60 Annually Location : 246 Shields Road, Huntsville, AL Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: 2026-00103 Department: Water Department Opening Date: 05/18/2026 Hiring Manager:

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All JobsUtility Locator JobsUtility Locator Jobs in Athens, AL

Utility Locator information

See Athens, AL salary details

$11

$15

$22

How much do utility locator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility locator in Athens, AL is $15.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $16.25 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

What cities near Athens, AL are hiring for Utility Locator jobs?

Cities near Athens, AL with the most Utility Locator job openings:

Utility Locator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Locator job openings in Athens, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,373 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Water Utility Worker I

Madison County, AL

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$37K - $59K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Salary : $37,336.00 - $59,633.60 Annually
Location : 246 Shields Road, Huntsville, AL
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 2026-00103
Department: Water Department
Opening Date: 05/18/2026
Hiring Manager: Will Gross
Position Overview
Employees of this class follow well-established procedures in the performance of semi-skilled to skilled labor connected with various water system construction and maintenance activities. Work involves a variety of tasks from those routines in nature to those involving more complex journeyman tools and machinery Instructions may be given orally or in writing. Simpler tasks may be performed with considerable independence, while more complex tasks are performed under the direct supervision of a skilled worker. Work is subject to inspection during its progress and after completion.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
(All duties listed may not be included in any one position nor does the list include all tasks found in a position of this class.)
  • Maintains a safe working environment.
  • Lays pipe, concrete, rocks, and other materials used in the construction, maintenance, and repair of water mains, service lines, meters, and related appurtenances.
  • Paints various structures, and performs a variety of other semi-skilled maintenance and repair work.
  • Service, clean, and maintain vehicles, tools, and equipment as necessary.
  • Maintains Water Department lawns and landscape.
  • Performs other duties as required.
  • Drives trucks and other vehicles in connection with light hauling.
  • Operates tractors and other smaller equipment when needed.
  • Responds to after-hours calls for water outages or repairs as required.
  • Repairs and/or replaces asphalt, concrete, landscaping, and another hardscape as necessary following water system repairs.

Education and Experience
Education and Experience
  • Any combination of training and experience equivalent to graduation from a standard high school with extensive experience in industrial construction.
Knowledge, Skill, and Ability
  • Working knowledge of the use and maintenance of various hand tools and simple machinery.
  • Working knowledge of the routine phases of a skilled trade such as a bridge or building construction.
  • Skill to use many different types of hand tools.
  • Skill to operate light machinery and mid-size vehicles.
  • Ability to work under minimum supervision and maintain efficiency and accuracy in job performance.
  • Ability to understand and follow simple written and oral instructions.

Other Requirements
Physical Requirements
  • Must be physically capable of performing strenuous manual labor in adverse weather conditions, and be willing and available to be on call as needed.
  • Must be able to see well enough to operate motor vehicles and light machinery.
  • Must be able to hear well enough to communicate to the other workers and supervisors, both by radio and in person.
  • Must be physically capable of lifting 50 lbs.

Certifications or Licenses Required
  • Must hold a valid Class B Commercial Driver's License (or obtain within six months of employment), and be insurable by the Madison County Commission's risk underwriters.
  • Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) will be obtained and reviewed annually.
  • Must be able to pass a DOT Commercial Driver's physical and drug screen.
  • Must be registered for the FMCSA DOT Clearinghouse if you have a CDL License.

Work Schedule
  • 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
  • Monday - Friday

To be considered for this position, all applicants must complete the employment application in full.
Madison County is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer that encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.
Madison County is a drug-free workplace and conducts drug and alcohol testing.
A comprehensive set of benefits is offered for all full-time employees. No benefits are offered to part-time or seasonal employees. Please consult with the Human Resources Department for a full list of benefits.
Madison County periodically reviews and when fiscally able, adjusts salary rates and our benefits package to remain competitive in our area.
Benefits Summary
Healthcare Insurance: Blue Cross of Alabama is administered through the Local Government Health Insurance Plan (LGHIP).
Coverage Type Employee'sPremium
Single Coverage Bi-weekly Premium $ 61.00
Family Coverage Bi-weekly Premium $ 150.00
Dental Coverage: Dental coverage is included with LGHIP through Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama. LGHIP manages dental costs and provides enhanced dental benefits using negotiated discounts with in-network dentists. To locate in-network dentists go to www.bcbsal.com. Assuming the services are covered you will normally only be responsible for out of pocket.
Life Insurance: Madison County provides $25,000 in life, $25,000 in accidental death and dismemberment and $25,000 line of duty insurance to eligible employees in certified positions.
Employee Retirement Plans: Employees are required to participate in the Employees Retirement System, which is a Defined Benefit Plan administered through the Retirement Systems of Alabama (RSA). Participants contribute 5% to 8.5% of their earnings depending on their hire date and classification. Sworn Certified Personnel have an accelerated contribution schedule
*Employer contribution percentage is set by the Retirement Systems of Alabama and changes annually.
Employee Clinic: Madison County employees and dependents over age 12 may use the Employee Health Clinic for the low co-pay of $15.00 per visit. To be eligible to use the clinic, the employee and dependent must be enrolled in Madison County's health insurance plan as their primary coverage.
Voluntary Plans are also available:
  • Additional life Insurance for employee and dependents
  • Flexible spending accounts (healthcare and childcare)
  • Vision Insurance
Holidays, Annual Leave and Sick Leave:
*Minimum of 10 holidays per calendar year
*Accrue 8 hours of annual leave and 8 hours of sick leave per month
01
Do you have a valid Driver's License?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Have you ever had a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in Alabama or another state?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Are you currently registered for the DOT Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse?
  • Yes
  • No

04
If you answered 'no' to the previous question. Please see the website https://clearinghouse.fmcsa.dot.gov/ for more information to register. (You should ONLY register if you have a CDL License)
Required Question

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