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Utility Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Utilities One is seeking an experienced Drill Operator to join our team in the Colorado Region . This role is ideal for candidates with strong experience in Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) and ...

Description Utilities One is seeking an experienced Drill Operator to join our team in the Colorado Region . This role is ideal for candidates with strong experience in Horizontal Directional ...

... to the utility, energy, and renewables markets throughout the United States and Canada. Q3 ... owned and operated construction contracting company that provides both specific and turnkey ...

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Utility Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$14

$27

$39

How much do utility operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility operator in Colorado is $27.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.97 and $32.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Utility Operator vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectUtility OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, certifications in safety and equipment operationHigh school diploma, certifications in water treatment and safety
Work EnvironmentFactories, power plants, utility facilitiesWater treatment plants, municipal facilities
Employer & IndustryUtility companies, energy providersMunicipalities, water service providers

Utility Operators and Water Treatment Plant Operators both work in utility environments and require safety and equipment operation certifications. However, Utility Operators often work across various utility sectors, while Water Treatment Plant Operators focus specifically on water purification processes. Both roles are essential in maintaining public utility services and share similar credentials and work environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Utility Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Utility Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, operational procedures, and safety regulations, typically supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with SCADA systems, pumps, valves, and relevant certifications such as OSHA or water/wastewater operator licenses is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help operators manage issues and collaborate with team members. These competencies ensure safe, efficient operation of utility systems and help maintain compliance with industry standards.

What are some common challenges Utility Operators face during shift work, and how can they manage them effectively?

Utility Operators often work rotating shifts, which can affect sleep patterns and personal schedules. Managing fatigue, maintaining consistent communication with team members across shifts, and responding quickly to unexpected equipment issues are common challenges. Effective strategies include adhering to a sleep routine, staying updated on shift handovers, and participating in regular safety and equipment training. Building strong teamwork and clear communication helps ensure smooth operations and minimizes downtime.

What Is a Utility Operator?

A utility operator is a machinist who works with different types of utility systems, such as water piping, wastewater plants, electrical cabling, or manufacturing equipment. Typical job duties include installation, maintenance, and repair of utilities. Qualifications for this job depend on the type of utilities but often include experience working with mechanical systems. Additional career skills include knowledge of specific types of machinery, such as overhead cranes and forklifts.

What are Utility Operators?

Utility Operators are responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining equipment and machinery in various utilities such as water treatment plants, power plants, or manufacturing facilities. Their main tasks include ensuring equipment runs safely and efficiently, performing routine inspections, troubleshooting issues, and making adjustments as needed. They may also record data, follow safety protocols, and coordinate with other team members to maintain continuous operations. Utility Operators play a crucial role in ensuring that essential services are delivered reliably to communities or businesses.
What job categories do people searching Utility Operator jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Utility Operator jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Utility Operator jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Utility Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Utility Operator jobs in CO? For Utility Operator jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Utility Operator job openings in Colorado as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,072 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

Underground Directional Drill Operator

MasTec Utility Services

Fort Collins, CO

$28 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 9 hours ago


Job description

Overview

Company Summary

MasTec Utility Services delivers critical infrastructure construction and engineering services for power delivery, gas, and water customers, specializing in overhead and underground electric distribution for power delivery systems, gas distribution construction for gas systems, and turnkey solutions for a variety of water, sewer, and civil infrastructure projects. Backed by the strength of decades of experience, unrivaled industry skills, and a deep commitment to core values, MUS delivers safe, innovative, and environmentally responsible services that provide extraordinary value to clients.

MasTec Utility Services is a purpose-driven company. Our core values guide our strategy, performance, and culture. We believe in maintaining an environment where team members can make an impact, grow, and thrive. A place where they find meaning and purpose in doing the important work of ensuring communities have the vital energy, light, and communications to prosper. Our culture is inclusive and welcoming. Our teams are empowered with abundant training, tools, and opportunities to follow their curiosity and ambitions. Everyone has an equal chance to advance. Everyone is supported, respected, and challenged to be their best. We’re always looking for talented and dedicated people to join us and love where they work.

MasTec Utility Services is a proud subsidiary of MasTec (NYSE: MTZ), a Fortune 500 Company ranked by Energy News-Record as one of the leading contractors in the country. MUS is part of the MasTec Power Delivery segment. We are certified as a minority-controlled company by the National Minority Suppliers Development Council (NMSDC). Our rich diversity of people and ideas makes us a stronger, more innovative organization.

Job Summary

The Directional Drill Operator/Locator is responsible for safely operating the directional drill to place product underground then locate the drill head to understand elevation changes and make decisions on depths to drill at to avoid hitting underground utilities. This position supports the Line team and works with personnel within the department. 

Rate of Pay: $28.00 - $35.00 per hour.


Responsibilities
  • Operate the drill rig efficiently. Prepare job and drill so that the shot can be performed safely.
  • Pothole all utilities that will either be paralleled or crossed during the bore shot.
  • Verify existing utilities.
  • Fill water tanks with water.
  • Combine water with chemicals for boring according to the ground you are drilling in.
  • Locate the drill head from point A to point B without hitting any utilities at the correct depth.
  • Hook up swivel, reamer, and pipe product that will be pulled back to complete the bore shot.
  • Before the bore shot is started, walk out bore shot to ensure all utilities have been located and develop a plan for going above or below each utility or obstacle in the bore path.
  • Pull back the product with the correct hole opener and utilize the correct mud mixture to ensure that the product makes it from point B to point A.
  • Inspect and maintain job equipment, including drill equipment and mixing unit

Qualifications
  • High school diploma, or equivalent.
  • 1 year of relevant experience.
  • Valid CDL Class A driver's license with tanker endorsement.
  • OSHA 10 Certification

Preferred

  • 3 or more years of experience.

Physical Demands and Work Environment 

This job operates in a field environment. This role routinely requires extended periods of bending, squatting, climbing, kneeling, pushing, pulling, lifting, lifting in awkward positions, standing, and twisting. Also, working in inclement weather conditions, such as extreme heat, extreme cold, rain, ice, snow, and wind.  

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. This position is physically active, with lifting required. Must be able to bend and lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Clarity of vision at 20 feet or more or 20 inches or less, with the ability to judge distance and space relationships. Precise hand-eye coordination. Ability to identify and distinguish colors. 

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. The Company reserves the right to revise or change the job duties as the need arises. Management reserves the right to change the description, duties, or work schedules to accommodate individuals with disabilities.  

Benefits available include Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life insurance, a 401k plan and Employee Stock Purchase plan. MasTec is a publicly traded company MTZ (NYSE). 

Equal Employment Opportunity: 

The Company’s policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable law and EEOC regulations. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories.  

Qualifications:
  • High school diploma, or equivalent.
  • 1 year of relevant experience.
  • Valid CDL Class A driver's license with tanker endorsement.
  • OSHA 10 Certification

Preferred

  • 3 or more years of experience.

Physical Demands and Work Environment 

This job operates in a field environment. This role routinely requires extended periods of bending, squatting, climbing, kneeling, pushing, pulling, lifting, lifting in awkward positions, standing, and twisting. Also, working in inclement weather conditions, such as extreme heat, extreme cold, rain, ice, snow, and wind.  

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. This position is physically active, with lifting required. Must be able to bend and lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Clarity of vision at 20 feet or more or 20 inches or less, with the ability to judge distance and space relationships. Precise hand-eye coordination. Ability to identify and distinguish colors. 

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. The Company reserves the right to revise or change the job duties as the need arises. Management reserves the right to change the description, duties, or work schedules to accommodate individuals with disabilities.  

Benefits available include Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life insurance, a 401k plan and Employee Stock Purchase plan. MasTec is a publicly traded company MTZ (NYSE). 

Equal Employment Opportunity: 

The Company’s policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable law and EEOC regulations. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories.  

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME