Utility Locating Technician

PEA Group•Auburn Hills, MI

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Utility Locating Technician helps keep excavation projects safe by accurately identifying and marking underground utilities and structures, including gas, water, electrical, sewer, and communication systems. The technician conducts ground surveys using ground-penetrating radar (GPR), interprets subsurface data, and communicates findings and excavation guidance to construction teams, engineers, utility companies, clients, and other project stakeholders. The position involves outdoor fieldwork at job sites, equipment maintenance and calibration, documentation, and adherence to PEA Group safety protocols. Travel is required to job sites in Southeast Michigan, with possible travel for select projects elsewhere in the United States.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
OSHA certification or relevant safety training.
Valid driver's license and clean driving record.
Certification or licensure in utility locating or GPR operation, if required by regional regulations.
Previous experience in construction, engineering, or utility management.
Demonstrated experience operating GPR equipment and conducting utility locating surveys.
Strong understanding of underground utility systems, including gas, water, sewer, electrical, and telecommunications.
Proficiency interpreting GPR data and identifying subsurface features.
Familiarity with GIS software for mapping and data analysis.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team, including with limited supervision in a fast-paced environment.
Strong organization, multitasking, problem-solving, and attention-to-detail skills.
Effective verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to use computers and mobile technologies to create and submit daily reports.
Professional demeanor, reliability, strong work ethic, and willingness to learn.
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 work Monday through Friday in shifts of 8 or 10 hours, with start times varying between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m.; overtime and weekends may be required.
Ability to perform fieldwork outdoors for more than eight hours a day, walk long distances, and stand for extended periods.
Ability to work in confined spaces or climb and work at above-average heights when assignments require it.
Ability to frequently stoop, kneel, sit, talk, hear, stand, walk, handle or operate tools and controls, and reach with hands and arms.
Ability to frequently lift and/or move items weighing more than 50 pounds and to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.

Nice To Haves

Additional education or training in surveying, geophysics, or a related field.
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 help ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Provide construction crews with guidance and recommendations for safe excavation and avoiding utility conflicts.
Maintain accurate records of utility locations, survey findings, and project documentation.
Perform routine maintenance and calibration of GPR equipment.
Stay current on industry trends, technological advancements, and best practices related to utility locating and GPR techniques.
Follow safety protocols and procedures to minimize risks and maintain a safe work environment, including PEA Group protocols.
Communicate project status and address concerns with clients, contractors, team members, and other stakeholders, including explaining when a requested utility cannot be effectively located.
Travel to assigned job sites in Southeast Michigan and, potentially, to select projects elsewhere in the United States.