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Utility Locator Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Bore Locator

Ontario, CA · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Identify and mark the location of underground utilities such as water, gas, electric, and ... Underground Locator may be responsible for placing conduit and/or cables in trenches, splicing ...

Bore Locator (Underground)

Ontario, CA · On-site

$24.25 - $30/hr

Bore Locator Department : Construction Employment Status : Full Time, Salary (Exempt) Primary ... Identify and mark the location of underground utilities such as water, gas, electric, and ...

Utility

Riverside, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18/hr

Overview Quinn Company, your local Caterpillar store, is hiring a Utility in Riverside, California. Quinn Company is a Caterpillar dealership founded in 1919. The company sells, services, and rents a ...

Utility

Riverside, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18/hr

Overview Quinn Company, your local Caterpillar store, is hiring a Utility in Riverside, California. Quinn Company is a Caterpillar dealership founded in 1919. The company sells, services, and rents a ...

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Utility Locator information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$14

$19

$28

How much do utility locator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility locator in Riverside, CA is $19.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $20.05 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 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.

What job categories do people searching Utility Locator jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Utility Locator jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Utility Locator jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Utility Locator job openings:
Infographic showing various Utility Locator job openings in Riverside, CA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,977 per year, or $19.2 per hour.
Utility Locator - Orange County

Utility Locator - Orange County

UtiliQuest, LLC

Irvine, CA • On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


UtiliQuest rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 50 rated energy and utility


Job description

Discover a more connected career

At UtiliQuest, LLC, 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 - Orange County 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.


What UtiliQuest employees say

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