Resources
Post a Job
 Special Offer 

Jumpstart your hiring with a $75 credit to sponsor your first job.*

Sponsored Jobs posted directly on Indeed with Urgently Hiring make a hire 5 days faster than non-sponsored jobs.**
  • Visibility for hard-to-fill roles through branding and urgently hiring
  • Instantly source candidates through matching to expedite your hiring
  • Access skilled candidates to cut down on mismatched hires
*The $75 Sponsored Job credit offer is only available for new accounts in the US that post a job and expires one year after account creation. Upon expiration of the credit, users are charged based on Sponsored Job budget. Terms, conditions, and quality standards apply **Indeed data, based on median United States, Q2 2024

Utility Locator Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

Edited by Indeed Employer Content Team
Last updated November 6, 2025
Our mission

Indeed’s Employer Resource Library helps businesses grow and manage their workforce. With over 15,000 articles in 6 languages, we offer tactical advice, how-tos and best practices to help businesses hire and retain great employees.

Read our editorial guidelines
4 min read

155581717utility locator6.77construction4.53construction laborer1.46training provided1.45usic1.4316575318547311.0021.7733.80HOURLY212153582025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05Utility Locator duties and responsibilities

The main function of a Utility Locator is to locate utility lines and determine how deep they are. Some common Utility Locator job duties include:

  • Analyzing blueprints to determine where construction projects will take place
  • Using magnetic, radar and electrical equipment to locate lines
  • Utilizing GPS or surveying equipment to pinpoint coordinates of lines
  • Performing calculations to arrive at the depth of lines
  • Preparing diagrams and sketches that show the location of lines
  • Compiling gathered data and prepared images into professional reports
  • Inspecting areas following the completion of renovations or new construction to check utility lines
  • Participating in planning or inspection meetings to present findings

Hire your next Utility Locator today.

Build a job description

Hire your next Utility Locator today.

Build a job description
Close

Utility Locator Job Description Examples

Example 1

Department: Cross Connection - Coweta County Water and SewerageAuthority

JOB Summary: This position is responsible for locating underground water lines, and testing large meters.

MAJOR Duties:

  • Receives and processes work orders for linelocates.
  • Locates underground water lines.
  • Marks underground lines with paint and flags.
  • Establishes safe work zones, includingtraffic control devices; flags traffic as needed.
  • Uses meter testing and leak detection equipment in performance of duties.
  • Scheduling meter test with customers and perform tasks in a timely manner.
  • Have strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office programs with an emphasis on. Excel program in making and using spreadsheets to impute reports.
  • Establish safe work zones, all safety steps are to be following and confined space requirements followed. Maintain safe traffic control devices; flags traffic as needed.
  • Maintains assigned vehicles and equipment. Also, responsible for inventory of supplies and equipment.
  • Uses utility maps, as-built civil engineering drawings, G.I.S. information, and various pipe and electronic locating equipment
  • Utilizes stakes, flags, and/or paint to mark the location of underground utilities
  • Prepares various reports, forms, and memos to document work completed, and problems encountered and/or resolved
  • May assist in installing new and/or replacing water meters and backflow prevention devices as needed.
  • Maintains assigned vehicles and equipment.
  • Maintains inventory of supplies and equipment.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge Required BY THE Position:

o Knowledge of Water and Sewerage Authoritystandards and practices.

o Knowledge of computers and job-relatedsoftware.

o Knowledge of the geography of the county.

o Knowledge of equipment maintenance andoperation.

o Skill in prioritizing and organizing work.

o Skill in the operation of job related heavyequipment.

o Skillin mathematical, oral and written communication.

Minimum Qualifications:

o Knowledgeand level of competency commonly associated with completion of specializedtraining in the field of work, in addition to basic skills typically associatedwith a high school education.

o Sufficientexperience to understand the basic principles relevant to the major duties ofthe position, usually associated with the completion of anapprenticeship/internship or having had a similar position for one to twoyears.

o Possessionof or ability to readily obtain a valid driver's license issued by the State ofGeorgia for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.

o Mustbe able to lift objects up to 65lbs. 12lbs total for the equipment being usedfor line locator.

o Workcooperatively with others.

o Work safely withoutpresenting a direct threat to self or others.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $18.00 per hour

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance
Schedule:
  • 10 hour shift
  • 8 hour shift

Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Newnan, GA 30263: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Experience:
  • Utility locating: 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:
  • Driver's License Location: One location

Example 2

Job Title: Fiber Utility Locator

Dallas, TX

Company: Gigabit Fiber



About Us:

Gigabit Fiber specializes in delivering high-speed data services over our extensive underground fiber optic network. As we scale our infrastructure to meet growing demand, we are committed to maintaining the integrity and safety of our network. We are looking for a dedicated Fiber Utility Locator to join our team and support our efforts in managing 811 requests for fiber location services.



Job Description:

We are seeking a reliable and detail-oriented Fiber Utility Locator to accurately identify and mark the location of our underground fiber optic cables. The successful candidate will be responsible for responding to 811 locate requests, ensuring the safety of our network during excavation or construction activities, and maintaining accurate records of all locates performed.



Responsibilities:

  • Respond promptly to 811 locate requests and accurately locate and mark underground fiber optic cables.
  • Utilize specialized locating equipment to identify the exact position of fiber cables.
  • Interpret utility maps and as-built drawings to determine the path of underground utilities.
  • Communicate effectively with construction crews, contractors, and other utility locators to coordinate locate activities.
  • Maintain detailed and accurate records of all locates performed, including documentation and reporting of any discrepancies or issues encountered.
  • Adhere to all safety protocols and procedures to ensure the protection of our fiber network and the safety of all parties involved.
  • Assist in training and mentoring new locators as needed.
  • Participate in ongoing training and development to stay current with industry standards and best practices.








Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $25.00 - $30.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Opportunities for advancement
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program
  • Vision insurance
Physical setting:
  • Construction site
  • Outdoor work
Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift
  • On call
  • Overtime
  • Weekends as needed



Experience:
  • Computer skills: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Utility locating: 1 year (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:
  • Dallas, TX 75202 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:
  • Dallas, TX 75202: Relocate before starting work (Required)


Work In person

Example 3

InfraMap Corp. is growing and we want YOU! We welcome talented, innovative individuals to join our team. If you are a utility locating professional in Maryland or just interested in what we do, we would love to talk to you.

At InfraMap our goal is to offer you not just another job, but a career where you can learn, grow, and thrive. We offer competitive pay, great benefits Starting DAY ONE and promote from within!

About the Position

After initial training is completed, the utility locator/SUE technician is working under the direction of a field manager and is assigned to worksites to conduct utility locating and surveying for surface, subsurface, and aerial utilities. Utility locators/SUE Technicians are responsible for the correct, safe, and efficient locating of underground utilities including telecommunications, electric, power, cable TV, gas, water, and sewer systems. This includes taking time to thoroughly search for underground utilities in an area, properly marking the location, and completing the necessary paperwork in accordance with company guidelines.

Job Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Follow the standard operating procedures for targeting, locating, field sketching, test hole documentation, etc.
  • Properly target & locate utilities, above and below ground.
  • Correct use, technique, and maintenance of the locating equipment.
  • Follow proper administrative procedures
  • Complete chapters and chapter tests in the training manual review.

Skills & Experience:

Minimum Qualifications
  • HS Diploma or GED required.
  • Applicable Traffic Control Certification/willingness to attain.
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug test.
  • MUST be able to pass a background check. This is a security sensitive position.
  • Must have a valid driver s license and a clean driving record.

Valued but not required skills and experience:
  • Associates or bachelor s degree in related field
  • HAZWOPER40 certification
  • OSHA10 or OSHA30
  • Existing First-Aid/CPR certification


Job Requirements:

General
  • Willingness to learn/experience in technical utility locating.
  • Willingness to learn/experience basic knowledge of surveying best practices
  • Willingness to learn/experience in GPR utility locating knowledge
  • Willingness to learn/experience in map/plan reading
  • Willingness to learn/experience in understanding or Maintenance of Traffic (MOT) procedures
  • Working knowledge of Excel, Word, PDF editor.
  • Must have good communication skills (verbal and written), attention to detail and accuracy, and the ability to read and understand maps, records, and prints.

Physical
  • Must be able to walk, bend, and lift up to 75 pounds.
  • Must have the ability to move safely over uneven terrain or in confined spaces.
  • Must have the ability to see and respond to external influences, including hazardous environments.
  • Must have the ability to wear personal protective gear correctly most of the day.

Work Environment
  • Must be able to work outdoors in all types of weather conditions.
  • Must be able to work in a confined space.
  • Must be available to work overtime and some weekends & travel as needed.

InfraMap Corp. is an equal opportunity employer and a drug-free workplace. 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

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $20.00 per hour

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program
  • Retirement plan
  • Vision insurance
Compensation package:
  • Employee stock ownership plan
  • Hourly pay
  • Overtime pay
Physical setting:
  • Outdoor work
Schedule:
  • Day shift



Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Norfolk, VA: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Application Question(s):
  • Are you able to pass a background security check?

Experience:
  • Utility locating: 1 year (Preferred)

Willingness to travel:
  • 50% Location: In person

Example 4

Key Responsibilities/Accountabilities:

  • Ability to coordinate multiple projects simultaneously
  • Respond promptly to foreman and potential Utility Locator needs
  • Strong analytical and organizational skills
  • Ability to deal with frequent changes, delays, or unexpected events
  • Ability to read, interpret and prepare locate tickets and start work for permits
  • Ability to communicate report findings and lead a productive discussion
  • Must be available to work hours as necessary as dictated by work volumes.
  • Must be willing & able to travel as required to complete the job
  • Must have working knowledge of basic computer skills
  • Must have working knowledge of basic office equipment
  • Must be able to lift 20-30lbs
  • Must be able to travel throughout the state (minimal overnight trips 0-5% of time)

Basic Qualifications:

  • High school diploma
  • Valid Driver license

Preferred Qualifications:

  • 1yr min admin experience
  • Experience in the Sunshine 811 locate system
  • Customer Service experience

EEO Statement:

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Third Party Agency Notice:

Primoris will not accept any unsolicited resumes from any third-party recruiting agencies either domestic or international. Primoris nor its subsidiaries will be responsible for any fees from the use of any unsolicited resumes either through our ATS or via electronic mail systems from any agency representative or agency consultant unless your firm is an approved vendor partner with a current executed agreement.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $18.00 - $22.00 per hour

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance
Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift

Experience:
  • Customer service: 2 years (Required)
  • Administrative: 2 years (Required)

Willingness to travel:
  • 25% Location: One location

Example 5

Major Responsibilities:

  • Read and understand maps and other documents to help identify underground utilities
  • Operate handheld detection equipment
  • Prioritizing locating requests to determine routing
  • Mark the location of underground utilities on private property, and other appropriate locations using required spray paints, flags, and equipment.
  • Complete and document locates on company provided laptop

Qualifications:

  • A valid driver's license, with under 6 points on driving record
  • Ability to work independently
  • Possess good problems solving skills
  • Good communication skills with managers, crews, homeowners and contractors required
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., work in all types of weather, and drive extensively
  • Basic computer skills
  • Knowledge of underground utility construction is preferred but not required.
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen

We Provide:

  • Extensive paid training
  • Laptop for work
  • Cell Phone for work related calls
  • Company Car

Summit Utility Services, LLC is an equal opportunity Employer.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $18.00 - $28.00 per hour

Benefits:
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Vision insurance
Schedule:
  • Day shift
  • Holidays
  • Monday to Friday
  • Night shift
  • On call
  • Overtime
  • Weekend availability

Education:
  • High school or equivalent (Required)

License/Certification:
  • Driver's License (Required)

Willingness to travel:
  • 100% Location: On the road

Example 6

Work Location: Bozeman, Livingston & Belgrade Area

Major Responsibilities:
  • Read and understand maps and other documents to help identify underground utilities
  • Operate handheld detection equipment
  • Prioritizing locating requests to determine routing
  • Mark the location of underground utilities on private property, and other appropriate locations using required spray paints, flags, and equipment.
  • Complete and document locates on company provided laptop

Qualifications:
  • A valid driver's license
  • Ability to work independently
  • Possess good problems solving skills
  • Good communication skills with managers, crews, homeowners and contractors required
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., work in all types of weather, and drive extensively
  • Basic computer skills
  • Knowledge of underground utility construction is preferred but not required.
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen

We Provide:
  • Extensive paid training
  • Laptop for work
  • Cell Phone for work related calls
  • Company Car

Summit Utility Services, LLC is an equal opportunity Employer.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $20.00 per hour

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Vision insurance
Schedule:
  • 10 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday
  • On call
  • Overtime



Experience:
  • Computer skills: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Utility locating: 1 year Location: In person

Example 7

Work Location: Butte, Anaconda, and surrounding areas

Major Responsibilities:

  • Read and understand maps and other documents to help identify underground utilities
  • Operate handheld detection equipment
  • Prioritizing locating requests to determine routing
  • Mark the location of underground utilities on private property, and other appropriate locations using required spray paints, flags, and equipment.
  • Complete and document locates on company provided laptop

Qualifications:

  • A valid driver's license
  • Ability to work independently
  • Possess good problems solving skills
  • Good communication skills with managers, crews, homeowners and contractors required
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., work in all types of weather, and drive extensively
  • Basic computer skills
  • Knowledge of underground utility construction is preferred but not required.
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen

We Provide:

  • Extensive paid training
  • Laptop for work
  • Cell Phone for work related calls
  • Company Car

Summit Utility Services, LLC is an equal opportunity Employer.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $18.00 per hour

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Vision insurance
Compensation package:
  • Hourly pay
  • Overtime pay
Physical setting:
  • Outdoor work
Schedule:
  • 10 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday
  • On call
  • Overtime



Experience:
  • Utility locating: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Computer skills: 1 year Location: In person

Example 8

The Underground Utility Locator is responsible for ensuring contractors can safely dig without damaging our underground utility infrastructure.

Essential Goals, Functions and Responsibilities:

  • Ability to read and interpret utility maps to identify size and type of underground utilities
  • Accurately mark the location of underground utilities
  • Work after hours on call when scheduled
  • Perform work in all weather conditions
  • Receive and respond to locate tickets during normal and after hours in accordance with time requirements via computer and cell phone
  • Operate different electronic detection equipment, to locate and mark underground utilities within set accuracy limits
  • Use a shovel to expose buried utilities when necessary
  • Take pictures and document all information required for each locate ticket
  • Safely operate company vehicle
  • Maintain a professional appearance and abide by company dress code
  • Maintain a positive working relationship with all parties involved, including but not limited to customers, homeowners and contractors
  • Ensure proper maintenance of all equipment used

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $24.00 - $26.00 per hour

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Disability insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Employee discount
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance
Compensation package:
  • Hourly pay
Physical setting:
  • Construction site
  • Outdoor work
Schedule:
  • 10 hour shift
  • 8 hour shift
  • Day shift



Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Minneapolis, MN 55419: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Experience:
  • Computer skills: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Utility locating: 1 year Location: In person
Our mission

Indeed’s Employer Resource Library helps businesses grow and manage their workforce. With over 15,000 articles in 6 languages, we offer tactical advice, how-tos and best practices to help businesses hire and retain great employees.

Read our editorial guidelines
Job Description Best Practices
Optimize your new and existing job descriptions to reach more candidates
Get the Guide

What does a Utility Locator do?

A 155581717utility locator6.77construction4.53construction laborer1.46training provided1.45usic1.4316575318547311.0021.7733.80HOURLY212153582025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05Utility Locator helps to ensure that companies performing construction projects and renovations can perform their work without disrupting oil, electric, cable, gas, sewer or water lines. By doing so, they can reduce costs for a utility provider and the contractor performing the work.

They also lower the likelihood of service interruptions for utility customers in the area where the work takes place and reduce the risk of worker injuries on the job site. After the completion of projects, a 155581717utility locator6.77construction4.53construction laborer1.46training provided1.45usic1.4316575318547311.0021.7733.80HOURLY212153582025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05Utility Locator may conduct an inspection to ensure that lines are intact, ensuring the efficiency and safety of utility operations in the area.

155581717utility locator6.77construction4.53construction laborer1.46training provided1.45usic1.4316575318547311.0021.7733.80HOURLY212153582025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05Utility Locator skills and qualifications

Individuals who are successful in Utility Locator careers usually boast a specific set of skills. The following are some qualifications that may indicate quality candidates:

  • Familiarity with the types of equipment used on the job
  • Arithmetic ability to produce necessary calculations
  • Computer skills to operate drafting, map-making and geographic information software
  • In-depth knowledge of laws and regulations regarding the placement of utility lines
  • Analytical skills to interpret data compiled by equipment
  • Ability to lift or pull items weighing up to 80 pounds
  • Enough stamina to stand and move throughout an eight-hour work shift
  • Valid noncommercial driver’s license

155581717utility locator6.77construction4.53construction laborer1.46training provided1.45usic1.4316575318547311.0021.7733.80HOURLY212153582025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05Utility Locator experience requirements

With the right on-the-job training or education, candidates can often succeed in Utility Locator careers without any previous experience. However, companies with staffing issues that may impede training may wish to prioritize candidates who have previously worked as a Utility Locator for a year or more.

Previous work experience in construction, surveying or a related field may help to prepare candidates to complete 155581717utility locator6.77construction4.53construction laborer1.46training provided1.45usic1.4316575318547311.0021.7733.80HOURLY212153582025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05Utility Locator job duties.

Utility Locator education and training requirements

Usually, a high school diploma or GED is needed to work as a 155581717utility locator6.77construction4.53construction laborer1.46training provided1.45usic1.4316575318547311.0021.7733.80HOURLY212153582025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05Utility Locator. Trade schools offer certificate and associate degree programs in Utility Location, and there are apprenticeships available in some parts of the U.S. Candidates who have completed one of these programs will likely possess additional knowledge that may allow for a shorter training period or improved performance on the job.

155581717utility locator6.77construction4.53construction laborer1.46training provided1.45usic1.4316575318547311.0021.7733.80HOURLY212153582025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05Utility Locator salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Utility Locator is $41,284 per year. The actual annual income of a locator depends on their experience, training and geographic location.

Job description samples for similar positions

If the 155581717utility locator6.77construction4.53construction laborer1.46training provided1.45usic1.4316575318547311.0021.7733.80HOURLY212153582025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05Utility Locator job description doesn’t fully match the requirements of your company, one of the following related positions might be a better fit:

155581717utility locator6.77construction4.53construction laborer1.46training provided1.45usic1.4316575318547311.0021.7733.80HOURLY212153582025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05Utility Locator job description FAQs

Do Utility Locators have different responsibilities in different industries?

Yes, the type of employer has an impact on a Utility Locator’s responsibilities. Utility Locators who work for utility companies will spend their days looking for one specific type of utility line and will compile reports for contractors to use. Other Utility Locators who are employed by local government agencies are more likely to be involved in inspecting finished construction and may need to locate multiple types of lines. Some Utility Locators find work with consulting companies that work for construction companies or utilities. These locators may locate one or many types of lines and will usually be preparing reports prior to the start of construction.

Who does a Utility Locator report to?

Normally, a 155581717utility locator6.77construction4.53construction laborer1.46training provided1.45usic1.4316575318547311.0021.7733.80HOURLY212153582025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05Utility Locator reports to a supervisor. Most companies have more than one Utility Locator on staff. Depending on the company size, all locators may report to one supervisor, or the staff may be divided into teams with one supervisor responsible for overseeing each team. In this case, all supervisors usually report to one manager.

What qualities make a good Utility Locator?

Naturally perceptive, analytical individuals often make good Utility Locators because of the duties involved in the work. Flexibility is beneficial, as emergency situations may mean a sudden change in plans. People who enjoy driving and traveling may thrive in 155581717utility locator6.77construction4.53construction laborer1.46training provided1.45usic1.4316575318547311.0021.7733.80HOURLY212153582025-10-012025-10-312025-09-012025-09-302025-11-05Utility Locator positions because much of their time is spent on the road, going from one inspection site to another.

Job Description Best Practices
Optimize your new and existing job descriptions to reach more candidates
Get the Guide

Three individuals are sitting at a table with a laptop, a disposable coffee cup, notebooks, and a phone visible. Two are facing each other, while the third’s back is to the camera. The setting appears to be a bright room with large windows.

Hire your next Utility Locator today.

Build a job description

Job Description Examples

Need help writing a job description for a specific role? Use these job description examples to create your next great job posting. Or if you’re ready to hire, post your job on Indeed.

No search results found

    Related articles

    20 Interview Questions to Ask Candidates
    Read article
    How To Hire Employees: A Step-by-Step Guide
    Read article
    Roles and Responsibilities Template (With 3 Samples)
    Read article