Utility Line Locator

Position Title: Utility Line Locator
Reports To: Project Manager
Department: Operations
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (eligible for overtime in accordance with applicable law)
Compensation & Benefits: The anticipated pay range for this position is $22.00/per hour - $30.00/per hour (depending on experience and certifications). Total annual earnings may increase based on experience, overtime, and on-call rotations. Precision Underground also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, retirement, paid time off, and other benefits.

Position Summary

The Utility Line Locator is a technical, field-based professional responsible for identifying and marking the location of underground infrastructure—including gas, electric, water, sewer, and telecommunications lines—prior to excavation to prevent accidental damage and ensure public safety.

This role utilizes specialized detection equipment, interprets utility documentation, and communicates directly with contractors, homeowners, and utility representatives to promote safe digging practices. The Utility Line Locator plays a critical role in damage prevention, regulatory compliance, and infrastructure protection.

Employees must maintain compliance with all company policies, federal and state labor laws, Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) requirements, U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations (if applicable), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards, state One-Call/811 regulations, and Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO), Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and Affirmative Action Program requirements.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

• Operate specialized electronic locating equipment, including electromagnetic sensors, ground-penetrating radar (GPR), acoustic tools, and related detection technology to accurately identify underground utilities.
• Accurately mark utility locations using industry-standard color codes, paint, flags, or stakes in accordance with state One-Call/811 regulations and company standards.
• Review and interpret utility maps, as-built drawings, blueprints, and GIS (Geographic Information Systems) data to guide field locating efforts.
• Maintain detailed digital records, sketches, and photographic documentation of each locate for compliance, audit, and safety purposes.
• Safely operate company vehicles while traveling between job sites. If the position requires operation of DOT-regulated commercial motor vehicles, comply with applicable FMCSA/DOT regulations, including but not limited to 49 CFR Part 391 (Driver Qualification standards), medical certification requirements, and applicable drug and alcohol testing regulations.
• Communicate directly with construction crews, excavators, homeowners, and utility representatives to ensure safe digging practices and clarify site conditions.
• Respond to emergency locate requests and participate in on-call rotations, as assigned.
• Follow OSHA safety standards and company safety protocols when working near roadways, construction zones, and active excavation sites.
• Accurately record all time worked and comply with company timekeeping, overtime authorization, and payroll procedures in accordance with applicable wage and hour laws.
• Immediately report safety hazards, damages, or incidents in accordance with company policy.
• Attend and complete required technical, safety, and compliance training.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of underground utility systems and damage prevention practices.
• Familiarity with state One-Call/811 requirements and color-coded marking standards.
• Ability to operate electronic locating equipment and related software systems.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in marking and documentation.
• Ability to distinguish between utility marking colors and follow industry coding standards.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to assess complex field conditions.
• Ability to work independently in outdoor environments with minimal supervision.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Commitment to workplace safety, professionalism, and regulatory compliance.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Valid driver’s license required. Positions requiring operation of commercial motor vehicles may require a CDL in accordance with DOT regulations.
• Ability to meet company driving standards, including successful motor vehicle record (MVR) review, where driving is an essential function of the role.
• Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check, as permitted by law. Positions classified as safety-sensitive or requiring a CDL are subject to DOT drug and alcohol testing regulations and DOT physical requirements, if applicable.
• Ability to walk long distances over uneven terrain, stand for extended periods, and lift equipment weighing 50–75 pounds.
• Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions and participate in on-call or emergency rotations.
• Previous locating, construction, or utility industry experience preferred but not required; paid training may be provided.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Work is performed outdoors in variable weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and snow.
• Frequent walking on uneven terrain, bending, kneeling, and lifting equipment.
• Exposure to construction zones, traffic areas, and potentially hazardous environments.
• Must be able to wear and properly use personal protective equipment (PPE), including high-visibility clothing and other safety gear as required.
• Work may involve extended hours, overtime, and emergency response schedules.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

Precision Underground Utilities LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an inclusive and supportive workplace free from discrimination or harassment based on race, color, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), marital status, familial status, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, citizenship or immigration status, status with respect to public assistance, veteran status, protected concerted activity, or any other status or activity protected under federal, state, or local law.

We provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities to support their full participation in the application process, the workplace, and advancement opportunities. If you require an accommodation to apply or interview, please contact HR at hrconsulting@creativeplanning.com.

Precision Underground Utilities LLC strictly prohibits discrimination, harassment, or retaliation of any kind. All employment decisions are made based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.

As a federal contractor, Precision Underground Utilities LLC maintains an Affirmative Action Program to promote equal employment opportunity for minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and protected veterans. Employees and applicants have the right to review the Affirmative Action Plan during normal business hours.

Positions requiring a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) are subject to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations, including but not limited to 49 CFR Part 391 (Driver Qualifications). Employment in safety-sensitive positions is contingent upon successful completion of required background checks, motor vehicle record reviews, DOT physical examinations, and ongoing compliance with DOT drug and alcohol testing standards, where applicable.

Employees are required to follow all OSHA safety standards and company safety protocols. This includes the consistent use of personal protective equipment (PPE), participation in required training, and immediate reporting of workplace hazards or injuries.

Employment with Precision Underground Utilities LLC is at-will unless otherwise specified in a written agreement signed by both the employee and Precision Underground Utilities LLC. This means that either the employee or Precision Underground Utilities LLC may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice, in compliance with applicable law.

Iowa, South Dakota, Nebraska: Pay ranges may be provided as part of best practices but are not legally required in all postings. Minnesota (effective Jan 1, 2025): Precision Underground discloses the pay range and general benefits for all job postings. Employees have the right to openly discuss compensation and benefits, and Precision Underground Utilities LLC will not discharge or discriminate against employees or applicants for discussing or disclosing compensation.

Salary : $22 - $30