Utility Locating Technician
About The Position
The Utility Locating Technician helps ensure excavation projects are safe by identifying and marking underground utilities and structures, including gas lines, water pipes, electrical cables, and communication lines. The technician uses ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and other specialized equipment to locate utilities and identify subsurface anomalies, working with construction teams, engineers, and utility companies to prevent infrastructure damage and reduce accident risks. The position involves outdoor fieldwork in all weather conditions, typically for 8 or more hours per day, and travel to job sites in Southeast Michigan, with possible travel for select projects elsewhere in the United States. Workdays are Monday through Friday, with 8- or 10-hour shifts starting at 7 or 8 a.m.; overtime and weekend work may be required.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- OSHA certification or relevant safety training.
- Valid driver's license and clean driving record.
- Previous experience in construction, engineering, or utility management.
- Proven experience operating GPR equipment and conducting utility-locating surveys.
- Strong understanding of underground gas, water, sewer, electrical, and telecommunications systems.
- Proficiency in interpreting GPR data and identifying subsurface features.
- Familiarity with GIS software for mapping and data analysis.
- Ability to organize and multitask and work effectively with limited supervision.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to use computers and mobile technology to create and submit daily reports.
- Professional demeanor, reliability, strong work ethic, and a positive attitude.
- Ability and willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check and have a satisfactory driving record.
- Ability to meet the physical demands of fieldwork, including walking long distances, standing for extended periods, frequent stooping and kneeling, and frequently lifting or moving items over 50 pounds.
- Willingness to work overtime and weekends as required and travel to job sites.
Nice To Haves
- Additional education or training in surveying, geophysics, or a related field.
- Certification or licensure in utility locating or GPR operation, which may be required depending on regional regulations.
- Commitment to continuous learning and professional development in utility locating and GPR technology.
Responsibilities
- Conduct ground surveys using GPR equipment to identify and map underground utilities and structures.
- Interpret GPR data to determine the location, depth, and orientation of buried utilities.
- Mark underground utility locations with paint, flags, or other designated markers in accordance with industry standards and guidelines.
- Coordinate excavation plans with construction teams, engineers, and utility companies, and support compliance with safety regulations.
- Provide construction crews with guidance on safe excavation and avoiding utility conflicts.
- Maintain accurate utility-location records, survey findings, and project documentation.
- Perform routine maintenance and calibration of GPR equipment.
- Stay current with industry trends, technological advancements, and best practices in utility locating and GPR techniques.
- Follow safety protocols and procedures, including those outlined by PEA Group.
- Communicate project status and address concerns with clients, contractors, and team members, including notifying clients when a requested utility cannot be effectively located.
- Travel to assigned job sites in Southeast Michigan and potentially to select projects throughout the United States.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Education Level
High school or GED
