Utility Locator

Job Overview

The Utility Locator is tasked with precisely identifying and marking underground utility lines to ensure excavation and construction activities proceed without damaging existing facilities. This involves using specialized locating equipment, interpreting maps and work orders to pinpoint utility locations accurately, which is vital for public safety and supporting site operations.

Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct underground utility locates adhering to company policies, state laws, and utility standards.
• Interpret maps, blueprints, GIS data, and work orders to trace utility routes.
• Operate tools such as transmitters, receivers, and toners for accurately marking underground utilities.
• Maintain comprehensive records including sketches, field notes, photographs, GPS information, and completed documentation.
• Handle standard tickets, urgent locate requests, prioritized projects, and re-marks promptly.
• Effectively communicate with contractors, homeowners, utility providers, and team members.
• Ensure proper upkeep of tools, equipment, and company vehicles.
• Perform all tasks in compliance with OSHA, 811 guidelines, and state One-Call regulations prioritizing safety.
• Report any discrepancies, safety concerns, or potential hazards immediately.
• Assist team members and support field operations as required.
• Carry out any additional duties or special assignments as delegated.

Performance Indicators

• Accuracy and quality of locates as demonstrated in audit scores.
• Aim to achieve zero preventable damages to utilities.
• Timely completion rate of locate tickets.
• Compliance with safety standards and maintaining incident-free records.
• Precise documentation including photographs, notes, and mapping verification.
• High satisfaction ratings from customers and contractors.

Qualifications and Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED) is mandatory.
• Previous experience in utility locating or related fields such as construction, telecommunications, gas, water, or electrical services is preferred.
• Familiarity with One-Call systems, 811 regulations, and underground utility networks is beneficial.
• A valid driver's license is essential.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

• Frequent outdoor work exposed to various weather conditions.
• Presence on active construction sites with potential exposure to traffic and moving machinery.
• Work performed on both private and public rights-of-way.
• May require responding to emergency or after-hours locate calls.
• Regular interaction with contractors, homeowners, utility firms, project managers, field supervisors, and internal crews.
• Physical ability to stand, walk, bend extensively, carry loads up to 50 pounds, work in trenches or confined spaces, operate hand tools and locating devices, and navigate uneven terrains.
• Good visual acuity and manual dexterity are necessary.

Safety and Compliance

This is a safety-sensitive role requiring the employee to be accountable for personal and others' safety. Duties must be executed following safety regulations including proper use of personal protective equipment, safe operation of vehicles and equipment, maintaining required licenses and certifications, engaging in mandatory safety training, promptly reporting unsafe conditions, passing drug and alcohol testing, and sustaining the physical capabilities essential for safe performance. Non-compliance may lead to disciplinary measures up to termination.

Additional Information

The employer is committed to equal opportunity employment without discrimination on bases such as race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age (40+), disability, military status, genetic information, or other protected categories. Harassment on these grounds is prohibited, and unemployment status will be lawfully considered in hiring decisions.