Lead Locate Technician - Tappahannock, VA

National Underground Group; Virginia (MN); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

National Underground Group seeks a Lead Locate Technician in Virginia to support field operations with advanced technical expertise and team mentorship. The role involves addressing complex issues, ensuring service quality, and promoting a collaborative safety-first culture. Candidates must have a high school diploma or GED, 2–3 years of utility locating experience, and strong communication skills. A valid driver’s license and proficiency in GIS tools are preferred. This full-time position emphasizes customer satisfaction and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2–3 years of experience in utility locating.
• Strong knowledge of underground utility systems and locating equipment.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.

Responsibilities

• Support and mentor Locate Technicians to improve performance.
• Troubleshoot complex locate issues effectively.
• Maintain accurate marking of underground utilities.

Skills

Utility locating

Team leadership

Customer service

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

GIS tools

Ticket management systems

Microsoft Office

Job description

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Full Time Regular Manual Labor Tappahannock, VA, US

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).