Underground Utility Locator | Safe Excavation & Mapping

Water Otter Job Board; San Marcos (TX); On-site; USD 48,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental & Vision Coverage

TMRS retirement plan

Paid Parental Leave

Holidays and Vacation

Job summary

City of San Marcos is seeking an Utility Locator to support safe excavation and infrastructure maintenance by accurately identifying and marking underground utilities. The role emphasizes safety, precise field assessments, and coordination with internal teams and contractors to protect assets and public safety.

The position requires knowledge of locating technologies, documentation, and the ability to communicate clearly with stakeholders.

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.
• Skill in using computers and digital tools to document and communicate locate information.
• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally with colleagues, customers, contractors, and homeowners.
• Ability to adapt to new processes, tools, and training requirements as operational needs evolve.

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.
• Performs thorough utility searches within assigned areas, applies standardized color-coded markings, and ensures accurate documentation to prevent utility strikes and service disruptions.
• 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.
• Adheres to all safety protocols and participates in ongoing training to promote safe work practices and continuous improvement.
• Supports afterhours and emergency locating needs as required to maintain service continuity and public safety.

Skills

Utility locating knowledge

GPS/location tech

Problem solving

Documentation

Communication

Adaptability

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Locating equipment

Job description

City of San Marcos is seeking an Utility Locator to support safe excavation and infrastructure maintenance by accurately identifying and marking underground utilities. The role emphasizes safety, precise field assessments, and coordination with internal teams and contractors to protect assets and public safety.

The position requires knowledge of locating technologies, documentation, and the ability to communicate clearly with stakeholders.