811 Utility Locator

Our team and utility locating experts provide a full suite of state-of-the-art utility locating experience, designed to help your team avoid accidental underground strikes that can result in costly repairs, severe injury and lost time.

Position Summary

The 811 Utility Locator is responsible for locating and marking underground utility lines in response to Miss Utility / 811 locate requests throughout Central Delaware and Southern Maryland. This role helps prevent utility damages, service interruptions, and safety hazards by accurately identifying and marking buried facilities before excavation begins.

Locators work independently in the field using utility locating equipment, mapping systems, and electronic ticket management software while maintaining strong communication with contractors, municipalities, and utility owners.

Key Responsibilities

Utility Locating & Marking

• Respond to 811 locate requests within required state deadlines
• Locate underground utilities including:
• Electric
• Gas
• Communications/Fiber
• Water
• Sewer
• CATV
• Mark utilities according to APWA color code standards
• Read and interpret utility maps, prints, and GIS data
• Verify clear and accurate markings before closing tickets

Field Operations

• Drive assigned company vehicle throughout service territory
• Work outdoors in varying weather and terrain conditions
• Use locating equipment such as:
• Electromagnetic locators
• Ground penetrating equipment
• GPS/GIS systems
• Tablets/mobile ticket systems
• Maintain daily productivity and quality standards

Documentation & Reporting

• Complete ticket documentation accurately and on time
• Upload photos and notes for completed locates
• Report damaged utilities, unsafe conditions, and mapping discrepancies
• Maintain compliance with Delaware and Maryland 811 regulations

Customer & Contractor Interaction

• Communicate professionally with excavators and property owners
• Explain markings and locate limitations when needed
• Coordinate meet tickets and emergency requests
• Represent On The Mark Locators professionally in the field

Coverage Area

• Central Delaware
• Southern Maryland
• Rural, residential, commercial, and highway environments

Travel throughout assigned territory is required daily.

Required Qualifications

• Valid driver’s license with clean driving record
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Basic computer and smartphone/tablet skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to read maps and directions
• Ability to lift 50 lbs and walk long distances
• Comfortable working outdoors year-round

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous utility locating experience
• Knowledge of Miss Utility / 811 systems
• Experience with Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE)
• GIS or mapping experience
• Construction or utility field background
• Knowledge of APWA color code standards

Work Environment

• Outdoor field environment
• Exposure to heat, cold, rain, snow, mud, and uneven terrain
• Occasional on-call or emergency response work
• Independent field work with daily route assignments

Skills & Competencies

• Time management
• Route planning
• Problem-solving
• Safety awareness
• Communication skills
• Attention to detail
• Accountability
• Ability to work under deadlines

Typical Equipment Used

• Vivax / Radiodetection locating equipment
• Tablets/mobile ticket management systems
• GPS mapping tools
• Company truck
• Safety PPE and traffic control equipment

Performance Expectations

• Meet daily locate completion goals
• Maintain low damage ratio
• Submit accurate ticket documentation
• Follow all company safety procedures
• Maintain professional appearance and customer service standards

Certifications (Preferred or Required After Hire)

• OSHA 10
• First Aid/CPR
• State locator certification (if applicable)
• Defensive driving certification