Area Manager, Field Locating & Operations Lead

nllocating; Dayton (OH); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Northern Lights Locating in Dayton, OH is seeking an Area Manager to coordinate and supervise locating technicians and field supervisors across defined geographic areas. You will drive project completion, safety compliance with 811 rules, and uphold high service standards.

You will lead daily operations, manage tickets and timecards, travel 75%+, and collaborate with clients, HR, and upper management to resolve issues and improve field performance.

Qualifications

• Must be able to travel 75%+ across geographic areas.
• Strong attention to detail with a safety-first mindset.
• Experience in the utility locate industry is preferred.
• Knowledge of Northern Lights policies and field practices.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and be able to pass a drug screen.

Responsibilities

• Serve as daily contact for employees, addressing locates and concerns.
• Act as liaison between Northern Lights, clients and internal teams.
• Oversee field operations across geographic areas; overnight travel required.
• Manage field supervisors and support personnel issues with HR and management.
• Monitor tickets and ensure timely responses.
• Review and approve timecards and coordinate vacation schedules.
• Adjust service maps and locator hours to meet needs and manage tickets.
• Support field calibration and troubleshooting of locates.
• Conduct monthly field and desktop audits for compliance.
• Document initial damage reports and assist with root cause tracking.
• Coordinate client reporting within internal systems.
• Assist with locator training and ongoing field support.
• Maintain communication via email and text; follow up on issues.

Skills

Attention to detail

Travel willingness

Troubleshooting

Team collaboration

Communication

Driver's license

Drug screen

Job description

Northern Lights Locating in Dayton, OH is seeking an Area Manager to coordinate and supervise locating technicians and field supervisors across defined geographic areas. You will drive project completion, safety compliance with 811 rules, and uphold high service standards.

You will lead daily operations, manage tickets and timecards, travel 75%+, and collaborate with clients, HR, and upper management to resolve issues and improve field performance.