OSP Utility Locator Technician - Bakersfield, CA

Race Communications; Bakersfield (CA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

100% company-paid medical and dental

Free fiber internet service

PTO and holidays

401k matching

Growth opportunities

Job summary

Race Communications is seeking a skilled Utility Locator Technician in Bakersfield to identify and mark underground utilities for safe dig sites. The role involves field work at a central Race worksite with travel to other offices and locations, requiring a valid driver’s license and strong safety awareness.

The position offers a 100% company-paid medical and dental package, free fiber internet service for employees in the service area, and a comprehensive benefits package including PTO,

Qualifications

• Minimum of a high school diploma or GED.
• Valid driver’s license; DMV check may apply.
• Spanish language skills are a plus.
• Experience with AutoCAD/Google Maps/KMZ is preferred.
• Experience marking utilities is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Support and coordinate tasks per 811 guidelines.
• Identify and map utilities using KMZ and AutoCAD.
• Locate and mark underground utilities with precision.
• Perform minor excavations using a shovel as needed.
• Use hand tools (shovels, screwdrivers, wrenches, ped keys) as required.
• Inspect fiber infrastructure aerially and underground as needed.
• Maintain vehicle/equipment pre/post-op readiness; travel between sites.

Skills

English communication

Spanish (bonus)

Driver's license

Safety-conscious

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

AutoCAD

Google Maps

KMZ

Job description

Location:

In-Field: Bakersfield, CA. Location Status: Work will be primarily performed at a designated field worksite location based out of a central Race Communications worksite. Frequent travel to and work from other Race offices or other off-site locations will be required. 100% Company-Paid Medical and Dental Benefits Free Fiber Internet Service Comp: $20 to $22 USD per hour

Who We Are:

We're more than a fiber internet provider, we're your neighbors, committed to connecting California communities since 1994. At Race, relationships matter as much as speed. We combine cutting-edge technology with a genuine, people-first approach that makes every interaction feel personal. Our team operates like family: collaborative, supportive, and dedicated to making a real difference. When you join Race, you're not just accepting a job, you're becoming part of a team that values integrity, celebrates wins together and believes that meaningful work happens when great people connect with great purpose.

Position Impact:

The Utility Locator Technician is a skilled professional responsible for accurately identifying and marking underground utility lines, ensuring the safety and integrity of excavation projects. This role involves using advanced equipment and techniques to locate and map utility lines, such as fiber optic cables, to prevent damage during construction or maintenance activities. Utility Locator Technicians collaborate closely with construction teams, follow safety protocols, and adhere to industry standards to minimize disruptions and costly repairs. Their expertise plays a critical role in maintaining reliable telecommunications infrastructure and ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of essential services.

Qualifications and Experience:

Eligibility for US Employment without sponsorship Minimum of 18 years of age High School Diploma or GED or equivalent combination of education and experience is preferred A valid driver's license, subject to successful verification through a DMV check Proficiency in Spanish Language a plus AutoCAD/Google Maps/KMZ experience preferred Utility Marking Experience preferred Maintains a dependable record of attendance, consistently punctual Ability to work nights and weekends, variable schedule(s), and overtime as needed The ability to effectively communicate in English, including speaking, reading, writing, and comprehension, as necessary for effective job performance and workplace communication

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support and Coordination: Supports USA ticketing and Field Marketing per 811 guidelines
• Utility Identification and Mapping: Interprets utility maps and prints, using tools such as KMZ and AutoCAD, to determine the natural and dimensions of underground utilities
• Utility Location and Marking: Utilizes various electronic detection tools to accurately locate and mark underground facilities within specified precision boundaries
• Conducts minor excavations using a shovel when needed to uncover buried utilities
• Deploys a range of hand tools and equipment, including shovels, screwdrivers, wrenches, and ped keys, as required
• Infrastructure Inspection: Conducts inspections of both aerial and underground fiber infrastructure as needed
• Vehicle Maintenance and Travel: Maintains vehicle/equipment pre-op/post-op to be prepared to perform required duties
• Maintains a clean driving record as defined by the current fleet insurance underwriter
• Spends a significant portion of the workday traveling in a vehicle visiting various locations and spending time both indoors and outdoors including businesses and/or residents depending on the nature of the job
• May be required to work overtime, after hours, on weekends, for emergencies, or be on-call as needed to ensure work is completed
• Safety Awareness and Compliance: Observes hazards and reports any concerns or accidents to a supervisor or safety professional; participates in the investigation process as needed
• Understands, completes, and signs off all pre-job safety planning tools at the start and end of the shift; completes all required safety-related paperwork
• Understands and responds appropriately to all safety hazards and warning devices (e.g., back-up alarms, smell of smoke, fumes, odors, different colored warning tags, warning sirens)
• Upholds a secure work environment by adhering to regulations, procedures, and company policies, ensuring safety standards are consistently maintained

Why Join Our Team:

• Join a tight-knit crew-no faceless corporation vibes here
• Growth potential: promotions and new challenges are part of our DNA
• Competitive base salary
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: 100% company-paid medical and dental insurance (starting the 1st of the month following your start date), PTO (vacation, sick), 11 paid holidays, paid birthdays, 401k matching (4%) Free fiber internet service for all employees living in our service area
• A culture built on integrity, mutual respect, and a shared purpose