Underground Utility Locator

Vannguard Utility Partners, Inc.; West Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 27,552 - 35,817; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) + Company match

Vision Insurance

Dental Insurance

Health Insurance

Life Insurance

Pet Insurance

Paid time off (PTO)

Job summary

Vannguard Utility Partners, LLC is hiring Underground Utility Locators for outdoor, safety‑driven work. You will drive a company vehicle to sites, use mapping tools, and locate and mark underground cables and pipes. Training is provided, and veterans are encouraged to apply.

The role requires a valid license, DOT drug test clearance, and the ability to work overtime or on-call shifts as needed.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (Required).
• Valid driver’s license (Required).
• Pass pre-employment DOT drug test and participate in Vannguard's Drug-Free Workplace Program (Required).
• 1 year of utility locating experience preferred.
• Overtime and on-call rotations may be required.

Responsibilities

• Drive company vehicle from home to job sites.
• Use mapping tools and locating equipment to locate underground utilities.
• Mark utility locations with paint/flags and coordinate with excavation crews.
• Respond to after-hours emergencies per rotation schedule.

Skills

Basic computer skills

Utility locating experience

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Mapping tools

Locating equipment

Job description

Great Opportunity for Outdoor Work and Freedom!

Salary: $20.00 - $26.00 per hour depending on experience

Job Type: Full-time

Schedule: Monday to Friday (10-hour shift, Overtime, On call)

About The Role

Vannguard Utility Partners, LLC is seeking responsible, self-motivated Underground Utility Locators. If you enjoy the freedom of working outdoors, are committed to safety, are drug-free, and take pride in a job well done, we will provide the training you need to succeed.

In this role, you will drive a company vehicle to job sites, use computer utility maps, and operate specialized equipment to find and mark underground cables and pipes. Your work directly prevents damage and ensures safety within the excavation, landscaping, and construction communities.

Military Servicemembers and Veterans are encouraged to apply!

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Drive a company vehicle directly from home to job sites in response to routine ticket requests, emergencies, and relocates.
• Use provided mapping tools, location information, and specialized locating equipment to accurately locate underground utilities (including electric, gas, telephone, and communication lines).
• Mark utility locations using paint and flags, and communicate relevant details to excavation personnel or appropriate authorities.
• Respond to after-hours emergency call-outs based on an established rotation schedule.

Required Knowledge, Skills And Attitude

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent (Required)
• License: Valid driver's license (Required)
• Screening: Pass pre-employment DOT drug test and participate in Vannguard's Drug-Free Workplace Program (Required)
• Skills: Basic computer skills (1 year preferred)
• Experience: Utility locating (1 year preferred)
• Availability: Must be able to work overtime and on-call rotations when needed.

Physical Demands & Working Conditions

• Driving: Sit and drive between 50 - 300+ miles daily, depending on the assigned area.
• Mobility: Regularly get in and out of a vehicle 50+ times a day. Stand and walk lengthy distances (1+ miles) over uneven terrain.
• Lifting: Ability to lift and/or move 50 - 150 pounds.
• Environment: Work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Location: Multiple field locations daily.

Benefits

• 401(k) + Company match
• Vision Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Health Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Pet Insurance
• Paid time off (PTO)