How To Become an Underground Utility Locator: Step-by-Step Guide
Learn about the steps important to pursuing a career as an underground utility locator, including education, skills, salary and more.
Underground utility locators are responsible for finding and marking the location of underground utilities, such as water, sewer, gas and electricity lines. This is a critical job that helps to prevent damage to these vital services. If you are interested in becoming an underground utility locator, it is important to learn about the job requirements and training involved. In this article, we discuss what an underground utility locator does and how to become one.
What Does an Underground Utility Locator Do?
Underground utility locators are responsible for finding and marking the location of underground utilities like water, gas, sewer and electricity lines. They use special equipment to find these buried lines so that they can be avoided when excavating for new construction projects. The duties of an underground utility locator include:
- Using a variety of tools and equipment to locate underground utilities
- Interpreting blueprints and other drawings to determine the location of buried lines
- Keeping accurate records of all utilities found during each project
- Marking the location of buried lines with paint or flags
- Communicating with clients and other professionals on the construction site
- Maintaining and repairing equipment
- Following all safety protocols
Underground Utility Locator Salary and Job Outlook
The average salary for an underground utility locator is $48,410 per year. This figure can vary based on the level of experience, education, industry and geographical location of the locator.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects job prospects for underground utility locators to increase at a below average rate over the next decade. This is due in part to the declining need for these services as more utilities are now being placed above ground.
How to Become an Underground Utility Locator
Here are several steps you should take to become an underground utility locator.
1. Complete a high school diploma or equivalent
A high school diploma or equivalent is the minimum education requirement for underground utility locators. If you are interested in pursuing a career as an underground utility locator, consider taking courses in math and science while you’re in high school to help you develop your skills and knowledge base.
If you did not complete high school but still want to pursue a career as an underground utility locator, you may be able to earn a GED through adult education programs offered by public schools or community colleges.
2. Consider completing a training program offered by a utility company
Many utility companies offer training programs for individuals interested in becoming underground utility locators. These programs can provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform this job, as well as introduce them to the industry. Completing a training program may also help you find employment after completing your training.
Some utility companies require that individuals complete their training before they are allowed to work independently as an underground utility locator. Other utility companies allow individuals to work independently without completing a training program.
3. Obtain certification from the National Utility Contractors Association (NUCA)
The National Utility Contractors Association (NUCA) offers certification to individuals who complete its training program. The NUCA certification is valid for three years, after which you must renew it by completing continuing education courses. To obtain the certification, you need a high school diploma or equivalent and at least two years of experience locating underground utility lines.
The NUCA certification allows you to work as an entry-level locator. It also provides you with access to the association’s resources and networking opportunities that can help you find employment in this field.
4. Gain experience working with underground utility lines
Gaining experience is an important part of becoming a utility locator. Many aspiring locators start out working for a local utility company, where they can learn about the industry and develop their skills. Entry-level positions with utility companies often involve tasks other than locating underground lines, such as digging trenches or repairing broken water mains.
Working for a utility company also allows you to build relationships with managers and other employees who may be able to provide recommendations when it’s time to look for a full-time position as a locator.
5. Develop strong interpersonal skills
Underground utility locators interact with many different people in the course of their work. They may need to explain to homeowners why a crew is digging up their yard or talk to city officials about getting access to dig in certain areas. Strong interpersonal skills can help you communicate clearly and sensitively with all types of people.
You may also have to interact with other contractors who are working on projects in the same area as yours. Having good communication skills can help ensure that everyone works together smoothly and efficiently.
6. Be able to work independently
Underground utility locators often work independently, so it’s important that you have self-motivation and can complete tasks without supervision. You may also need to travel long distances to job sites, which means having a reliable form of transportation is necessary. Having your own equipment and tools allows you to work independently since you don’t have to rely on company resources.
7. Stay up to date on changes in technology
Technology is constantly changing, and new tools are being developed to make the job of locating underground utilities easier. It’s important for locators to stay up to date on these developments so they can use the most effective tools in their work. For example, some locators use drones or GPS devices to find utility lines more quickly and easily.
