Damage Prevention Manager

NORTHERN LIGHTS LOCATING & INSPECTIONS INC•Plainfield, IN

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Northern Lights Locating is seeking a Damage Prevention Manager to lead and advance our damage prevention program supporting telecommunications, power, and utility infrastructure. This leadership role is responsible for driving field excellence, strengthening safety culture, improving locate accuracy, and ensuring full regulatory compliance. The ideal candidate is a proactive leader with strong field experience in utility locating, a passion for safety, and the ability to implement data-driven strategies that reduce risk and enhance operational performance.

Requirements

Proven experience in damage prevention, utility locating, or related field (telecom and/or electric preferred)
Strong leadership and team development skills
Deep understanding of 811 One-Call systems, OSHA standards, and utility safety practices
Experience with locating technologies (EM locating, GPR, GIS systems)
Ability to analyze data and implement process improvements
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement

Responsibilities

Lead & Execute Damage Prevention Strategy: Develop, implement, and continuously improve the company’s damage prevention program aligned with industry best practices and regulatory requirements.
Establish and track KPIs such as damage rates, locate accuracy, and response times, using data to drive performance improvements.
Lead and mentor damage prevention and field teams, fostering accountability, safety, and high performance.
Oversee damage investigations, ensuring root cause analysis and proper documentation for clients, regulators, and internal stakeholders.
Partner with Risk Management and insurance providers to manage claims and minimize exposure.
Identify and implement new technologies (GIS, real-time reporting, advanced locating tools) to enhance operational efficiency.
Manage program budgets, optimizing resources for training, tools, and staffing.
Training & Workforce Development: Design and deliver training programs covering safe excavation, advanced locating techniques, and 811 compliance.
Provide onboarding and ongoing training for employees, subcontractors, and new utility contracts (including telecom, electric, gas, water, and sewer).
Promote a strong safety culture through toolbox talks, field coaching, and hands-on training.
Ensure all team members meet or exceed industry certifications and qualification standards.
Field Oversight & Compliance: Conduct field audits to ensure accuracy in utility locating, marking, and excavation practices.
Ensure compliance with OSHA standards, 811 One-Call requirements, and client-specific protocols.
Lead response and analysis of utility damage incidents, identifying trends and implementing corrective actions.
Support field teams with real-time tools and digital reporting for improved visibility and decision-making.
Client & Industry Engagement: Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, contractors, municipalities, and One-Call centers.
Build and maintain strong relationships with utility owners, excavators, and regulatory agencies.
Represent Northern Lights Locating in industry associations and stay current on legislative and technology advancements.
Provide expert guidance on complex or high-risk locating and excavation scenarios.
Reporting & Continuous Improvement: Maintain accurate records of training, audits, incidents, and compliance activities.
Prepare reports for leadership detailing performance metrics, trends, and recommendations.
Use data analytics to proactively identify risks and improve safety and operational outcomes.
Ensure documentation meets regulatory and client requirements for audits and claims.