Lead Locate Technician - Charlottesville, VA

National Underground Group; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 33,062 - 38,572; Full time

Job summary

National Underground Group is seeking a Lead Locate Technician in Charlottesville, VA. This full-time position requires expertise in utility locating, mentoring team members, and ensuring high service quality. You will be the primary point of contact for technical issues, lead a team, and analyze performance metrics.

The ideal candidate has at least 2–3 years of experience, a high school diploma, and strong knowledge of underground utility systems. Pay ranges from $24 to $28 per hour based on experience.

Qualifications

• 2–3 years of experience in utility locating.
• Prior experience in a lead or mentoring role preferred.
• Strong knowledge of underground utility systems.

Responsibilities

• Mentor and coach Locate Technicians.
• Troubleshoot complex locate issues.
• Ensure timely marking of underground utilities.
• Monitors technician queues.
• Maintain customer satisfaction.

Skills

Utility locating

Mentoring

Problem-solving

Reading maps

Communication

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

GIS tools

Mobile field technology

Microsoft Office

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Lead Locate Technician - Charlottesville, VA

Full Time Regular Manual Labor Charlottesville, VA, US

4 days ago Requisition ID: 2541

The Lead Locate Technician supports field operations by providing advanced technical expertise, mentoring team members, and ensuring consistent service quality. This role acts as a bridge between Locate Technicians and Supervisors, helping resolve complex issues and maintain operational flow.

Leadership & Team Guidance

• Serve as the primary escalation point for technical and operational issues.
• Mentor and coach Locate Technicians to improve performance and knowledge.
• Promote a collaborative, inclusive, and safety-first team culture.
• Lead by example in professionalism, accountability, and adherence to safety protocols.

Technical Expertise

• Maintain expert-level knowledge of maps, SLD/FB data, and locating tools.
• Troubleshoot complex locate issues and support damage investigations.
• Identify recurring problems and recommend long‑term solutions.
• Ensure accurate and timely marking of underground utilities (gas, water, sewer, electric, fiber).

Operational Excellence

• Monitor technician queues and ensure consistent production flow.
• Assist with scheduling, ticket prioritization, and workload balancing.
• Analyze support metrics and provide insights to improve team performance.
• Participate in team meetings and provide after‑hours support when needed.

Customer Focus

• Maintain high standards of customer satisfaction and professionalism.
• Address escalated contractor and client concerns with urgency and clarity.
• Communicate effectively with excavation crews, clients, and internal teams.
• Proactively identify areas for improvement and support technicians facing challenges.
• Contribute to initiatives that enhance service quality and operational efficiency.
• Promote a culture of learning and continuous development.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements / Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum 2–3 years of experience in utility locating.
• Prior experience in a lead or mentoring role preferred.
• Strong knowledge of underground utility systems and locating equipment.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• Ability to work independently and in varied outdoor conditions.
• Proficient in reading maps, blueprints, and using mobile field technology.
• Strong communication, problem‑solving, and organizational skills.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with ticket management systems and GIS tools.
• Familiarity with state‑specific underground facility protection laws.
• Safety certifications (e.g., OSHA) are a plus.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).

Pay is set between $24-$28 an hour depending on experience level.