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Utility Locator Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

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Utility Locator information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$13

$17

$25

How much do utility locator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility locator in Decatur, AL is $17.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.03 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 job categories do people searching Utility Locator jobs in Decatur, AL look for?

The top searched job categories for Utility Locator jobs in Decatur, AL are:

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

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

Utility Locator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Locator job openings in Decatur, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,922 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Water Utility Worker I

Madison County Commission

Huntsville, AL

$37K - $59K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

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.

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