Utility Locate Technician (SUE)

Barge Design Solutions • Kingsport, TN

3d

About The Position

Barge Design Solutions is seeking an experienced Utility Locate Technician to join its Geomatics team. This hands-on role supports engineering, surveying, and infrastructure projects by identifying, locating, and documenting underground utilities. The technician combines field investigations, utility-record research, and specialized locating equipment to provide accurate subsurface utility information for safe and efficient project planning and design.

The role involves fieldwork and collaboration with surveyors, engineers, and other project personnel. The technician operates and maintains surveying and utility locating instruments, gathers and processes field data, and keeps accurate project records while following safety, schedule, budget, and quality requirements. Flexible schedules may be needed based on project and field requirements.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 5–10 years of experience locating and identifying underground utilities.
• 5–10 years of hands-on experience operating electromagnetic (EM) pipe locators and cart-mounted ground penetrating radar (GPR) equipment.
• Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record.
• Ability to work flexible schedules based on project and field requirements.
• Strong electrical knowledge and understanding of underground utility systems.
• Proficiency in operating EM locating equipment and GPR technology.
• Ability to read and interpret utility maps, engineering drawings, survey documents, and technical records.
• Experience collecting, recording, and processing accurate field data.
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving abilities, with a commitment to quality.
• Ability to work effectively with field crews, surveyors, and multidisciplinary project teams.
• Commitment to workplace safety, professional accountability, and timely project delivery.

Responsibilities

• Identify, trace, and mark subsurface utilities using electromagnetic (EM) pipe locators, ground penetrating radar (GPR), and other specialized equipment.
• Set up, calibrate, inspect, and operate surveying and utility locating instruments, including electronic total stations, data collectors, EM locators, and cart-mounted GPR systems.
• Gather, document, and process utility location information, including GPS and GPR field data and electronic or manual field records.
• Review utility maps, engineering plans, deeds, easements, right-of-way documents, and other records to support accurate utility identification.
• Collaborate with surveyors, engineers, and field personnel to provide subsurface utility information for project planning and design.
• Organize and maintain field records, utility observations, and supporting project documentation.
• Follow established safety procedures and maintain equipment.
• Complete assignments in accordance with project schedules, budgets, and quality standards.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support project and team objectives.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: High school or GED