What is an Utility Locator Job?
Utility locator jobs are positions that require individuals to locate and mark underground utilities, such as gas lines, water mains, and electrical lines. These professionals are responsible for ensuring the safety of construction workers, excavators, and the public by accurately identifying the location of these utilities. Utility locator jobs are critical to the success of any construction project, and they require individuals with a wide range of skills and expertise.
What Do Individuals in this Position Usually Do?
Individuals in utility locator jobs are responsible for locating and marking underground utilities. They use a variety of tools and techniques to identify the location of these utilities, including electromagnetic detection equipment, ground penetrating radar, and visual inspection. Once they have identified the location of these utilities, they mark them with paint, flags, or other visible markers, so that construction workers and excavators can avoid damaging them. In addition to locating and marking utilities, individuals in these positions may also be responsible for maintaining records of their work and communicating with other construction professionals.
Top 5 Skills for this Position
- Attention to detail: Utility locator jobs require individuals to be highly detail-oriented, as they must accurately identify the location of underground utilities.
- Technical knowledge: Individuals in these positions must have a strong understanding of the tools and techniques used to locate underground utilities.
- Communication skills: Utility locator jobs require individuals to communicate effectively with other construction professionals, including engineers, contractors, and excavators.
- Physical fitness: These positions require individuals to spend a significant amount of time outdoors, often in adverse weather conditions.
- Problem-solving skills: Individuals in utility locator jobs must be able to quickly and effectively solve problems that arise in the course of their work.
How Can One Become a Specialist in this Field?
Individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in utility locator jobs typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Many employers also prefer candidates who have completed vocational or technical training programs in fields related to construction or engineering. In addition to formal education, individuals in these positions typically receive on-the-job training, during which they learn the skills and techniques required to locate and mark underground utilities.
Average Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for individuals in utility locator jobs was $47,810 as of May 2020. However, salaries can vary widely depending on factors such as years of experience, geographic location, and employer.
Roles and Types
Utility locator jobs can be found in a variety of industries, including construction, engineering, and utilities. Some common job titles in this field include utility locator, utility locating technician, and underground utility locator. Roles within these positions can vary widely, depending on factors such as employer, location, and industry.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in the USA
Utility locator jobs can be found in most areas of the United States, but some locations have more job opportunities than others. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the states with the highest employment levels for individuals in utility locator jobs as of May 2020 were Texas, Florida, California, Pennsylvania, and Ohio.
What are the Typical Tools Used in this Field?
Utility locator jobs require individuals to use a variety of tools and equipment to locate and mark underground utilities. Some common tools used in this field include electromagnetic detection equipment, ground penetrating radar, metal detectors, and visual inspection tools. In addition to these tools, individuals in these positions may also use specialized software and equipment to maintain records of their work.
In Conclusion
Utility locator jobs are critical to the success of any construction project, and they require individuals with a wide range of skills and expertise. From locating and marking underground utilities to maintaining records of their work, individuals in these positions play a vital role in ensuring the safety of construction workers, excavators, and the public. If you are interested in pursuing a career in this field, there are a variety of training and education programs available to help you develop the skills and knowledge required to succeed.