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Utility Locator Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

Dycom Industries, Inc.

Utility Locator

Beltsville, MD · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

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

USIC

Utility Locator

Leesburg, 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.

USIC

Utility Locator

Leesburg, 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

Leesburg, 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.

Timmons Group

Underground Utility Locator

Ashburn, 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 ...

Dynamic Concepts

Underground Utility Locator

Washington, DC

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Underground Utility Locator We are seeking self-motivated experienced underground utility locators, with a minimum of 2 years of experience , who will manage constant changing work areas in order to ...

Shelter House

KHFS - Housing Locator

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$52 - $56K/hr

Housing Locator Department: Katherine Hanley Family Shelter Reports to: Assistant Director of KHFS FLSA Status: Exempt Salary: $52-$56K About Us: Shelter House was established in 1981 as a grassroots ...

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All JobsUtility Locator JobsUtility Locator Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Utility Locator information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$14

$18

$27

How much do utility locator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility locator in Silver Spring, MD is $18.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $19.81 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.
More about Utility Locator jobs
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Utility Locator jobs near you
Utility Locator

Utility Locator

Dycom Industries, Inc.

Beltsville, MD • On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Dycom Industries rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Beltsville, MD | Pasadena, MD | Columbia, MD | Rockville, MD
Workplace Type: Field
Employment Type: Hourly
Discover a more connected career
At UtiliQuest, as a Utility 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.
UtiliQuest supports utility operators throughout America to prevent damages to their infrastructure. Reliably completing millions of locate requests each year assisting project owners and managers in achieving safer excavations and reducing damages to the underground infrastructure. We utilize modern technologies and skilled professionals to deliver timely, reliable, and accurate locate services to protect utility operators' infrastructure throughout America. We are committed to conducting business with the highest standards of integrity and ethics, and with abiding respect for corporate citizenship and sustainability.
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
  • Operate company vehicle in a safe manner
  • Work overtime, travel, and perform on-call/afterhours responsibilities as needed
  • Participate in classroom and field training sessions
  • Completes and maintains all training
  • Drive safely and follow company safe driving policies
  • Maintain punctuality and attendance at all shifts and training sessions
  • Be able to perform manhole entry using assigned equipment and safety devices
  • Perform work in all weather conditions, during normal and after hours
  • Regular use of hands and fingers to operate specialized equipment and tools
  • Reaching overhead above the shoulders and horizontally; bending at the waist; standing and or walking for extended periods of time
  • Ability to carry 3-5 lbs electronic locating equipment for extended periods of time; lifting objects up to 50 pounds or lifting in excess of 50 lbs with tool aids
  • Hearing and speaking to exchange information
  • The employee shall follow all safety rules at all times
  • Will need to have the ability to work a flexible schedule (some evenings and weekends) as ticket/production load requires
  • Employee will respond to emergency calls during scheduled on-call shift rotation

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
  • mouse and carry 3-5 lb electronic locating equipment for extended periods of time, perform work in all weather conditions
  • Occasionally: work in confined spaces and climb stairs, walk on uneven ground and terrain

Transferable or related skills for this role: Facility Maintenance, Technician, route driver, meter reading, landscaping, working outdoors, pest control, surveying, military, ready to work, underground utility locating, construction and laborer
The wage range for Utility Locator is $20.00 - $24.00
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.
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