Watch & Protect Technician

Position Summary

The Watch & Protect Technician is responsible for protecting underground utility infrastructure during excavation activities by monitoring work sites, verifying utility locates, and ensuring compliance with local 811 safe digging practices. This position serves as a field liaison between facility owners and contractors, to prevent damage to critical underground assets and maintain compliance with excavation safety regulations.

Key Responsibilities

Excavation Monitoring & Damage Prevention

• Observe contractor excavation practices and ensure work is performed safely within established tolerance zones.
• Coordinate with contractors and excavators to monitor for high-risk excavation activities.
• Identify potential conflicts between excavation work and underground facilities and escalate concerns when necessary.
• Document findings through photographs, notes, and digital reporting systems.
• Verify that excavation activities comply with applicable safety regulations, utility standards, and 811 requirements.
• Maintain detailed records of excavation monitoring activities and field observations.
• Communicate potential risks or safety concerns to supervisors and project stakeholders.
• Participate in pre-construction meetings for high-risk excavation projects to review work scope and safety protocols.
  
  

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record.
• 1–2 years of experience in utility locating underground construction, pipeline operations, or damage prevention.
• Ability to work independently in field environments and manage multiple job sites.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with underground utility locating equipment and mapping systems.
• Knowledge of state safe digging laws and 811 processes.
• Experience with gas, electric, telecommunications, or water utility infrastructure.
• Previous experience in excavation monitoring, inspection, or utility damage prevention programs.
  
  

Required Skills

• Strong situational awareness and safety mindset.
• Effective communication and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to interpret construction plans, utility maps, and locate markings.
• Proficiency with mobile data collection tools and reporting software.
• Ability to coordinate with contractors, inspectors, and utility personnel in fast-paced environments.
  
  

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to walk uneven terrain and active construction sites.
• Ability to stand, kneel, bend, and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to drive frequently between job sites.
  
  

Work Environment

• Field-based role working primarily on active construction and excavation sites.
• Frequent travel between project locations.
• May require occasional evening or weekend monitoring based on project schedules.