Underground Utility Locator & Marking Specialist

City of San Marcos, TX; San Marcos (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

City of San Marcos, TX seeks a Utility Line Locator to support safe excavation and infrastructure maintenance by accurately identifying and marking underground utilities. You will use locating equipment, document findings, and coordinate with SMTXU, Engineering, and contractors to ensure project success.

The role emphasizes safety, accuracy, and timely communication, with afterhours and emergency locating as needed to protect public safety and city assets.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of utility locating technologies, equipment, procedures, and mapping resources.
• Knowledge of GPS and related location technologies used to identify and mark underground utilities.
• Skill in analysis, problem-solving, and interpreting locate tickets, maps, and prints.
• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally with colleagues, customers, contractors, and homeowners.

Responsibilities

• Locates and marks underground utilities to support safe excavation activities, ensuring accurate identification of power, water, reclaimed water, and wastewater lines using appropriate tools and locating equipment.
• Maintains complete and accurate records of all locates and provides reports, maps, and marking details to SMTXU, Engineering, or other project partners as needed to support operational planning and project success.
• Communicates effectively with team members, contractors, and customers to ensure clarity of utility line locations and alignment on project requirements.
• Supports afterhours and emergency locating needs as required to maintain service continuity and public safety.
• Demonstrates professionalism, integrity, teamwork, customer focus, and innovation in all interactions and work activities.

Skills

Utility locating technologies

GPS/location technologies

Analysis & problem-solving

Computers & digital tools

Clear communication

Adaptability to new processes/tools

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

1 year locator experience

Tools

GPS/location equipment

Job description

City of San Marcos, TX seeks a Utility Line Locator to support safe excavation and infrastructure maintenance by accurately identifying and marking underground utilities. You will use locating equipment, document findings, and coordinate with SMTXU, Engineering, and contractors to ensure project success.

The role emphasizes safety, accuracy, and timely communication, with afterhours and emergency locating as needed to protect public safety and city assets.