Utility Locator

GAC Enterprises, LLC; Houston (TX); Remote; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

GAC Enterprises LLC in Houston is seeking a Utility Locator to identify, locate, and mark underground utilities in support of safe excavation and construction operations.

You will read maps, use locating equipment, and coordinate with field teams while following 811 regulations and company procedures.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Experience with utility locating preferred.
• Ability to read maps, construction prints, and locate documentation.
• Knowledge of 811 regulations and damage prevention preferred.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather.

Responsibilities

• Locate and mark underground utility lines in accordance with 811 regulations, company standards, and customer requirements.
• Read and interpret utility maps, construction prints, GIS data, and locate tickets.
• Utilize locating equipment to identify underground facilities accurately.
• Communicate locate information to field crews and project managers.
• Document locate activities and field findings in required systems.
• Respond to emergency locate requests as needed.
• Maintain safety procedures and PPE requirements at all times.
• Travel as required to support project needs.

Skills

Reading maps

Communication

Attention to detail

Physical stamina

Problem solving

Education

High school diploma

Experience in locating utilities

811 regulations knowledge

Outdoor work experience

Tools

GIS mapping

Locating equipment

GPS devices

Mobile apps

Job description

Position Summary:

The Utility Locator is responsible for identifying, locating, and marking underground utilities to support safe excavation and construction operations. This role plays a critical part in preventing utility damage, maintaining compliance with 811 regulations, and ensuring field crews can safely perform underground construction activities. The Utility Locator works closely with Field Supervisors, Drill Crews, Operators, and Construction Management to support efficient and accurate field operations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following.

• Locate and mark underground utility lines in accordance with 811 regulations, company standards, and customer requirements
• Read and interpret utility maps, construction prints, GIS data, and locate tickets
• Utilize utility locating equipment and technology to identify underground facilities accurately
• Ensure all utility markings are completed accurately, clearly, and within required response timelines
• Maintain compliance with state and local damage prevention regulations and utility locating procedures
• Communicate effectively with field crews, Construction Managers, Project Managers, and customers regarding locate information and potential conflicts
• Document locate activities, field findings, and operational updates accurately within required systems
• Respond to emergency locate requests and support urgent operational needs as required
• Identify and report damaged utilities, unsafe conditions, inaccurate mapping, or operational concerns promptly
• Maintain company equipment, locating devices, vehicles, and tools in proper working condition
• Support field operations by assisting with utility verification, potholing coordination, and project planning as needed
• Follow company policies, OSHA standards, PPE requirements, and operational safety procedures at all times
• Work outdoors in varying weather and field conditions
• Travel as required based on operational and project needs
• Other duties may be assigned

Organizational Responsibilities:

Follows established policies and procedures by monitoring and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, organizational standards, and operational processes related to area(s) of responsibility and reporting violations or infractions to appropriate individual(s).

Identifies areas for improvement and offers suggestions to improve the site's efficiency, profitability, and productivity.

Keeps abreast of current changes in technology, logistics tools, processes, and standards within the industry and area(s) of responsibility by attending internal and external training programs and by accessing other sources of information and applying knowledge and practices to area(s) of responsibility.

Work Hours (may vary by location):

This position is scheduled as full time in a regular work week. Additional support within non-regular hours may be required and should be discussed with the supervisor. No additional compensation for overtime is offered for this position.

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education/Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred
• Previous utility locating, telecom, construction, or underground utility experience preferred
• Experience working with utility locating equipment and underground infrastructure highly preferred
• Knowledge of 811 regulations, damage prevention procedures, and utility locating standards preferred
• Ability to read and interpret utility maps, construction prints, and locate documentation
• Experience working in outdoor and physically demanding environments
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Familiarity with underground telecom, electric, gas, water, sewer, or fiber utility systems is a plus

Language Ability:

Demonstrated ability to read, write, and communicate effectively to comprehend and complete documents, and answer questions in English. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence as needed.

Math Ability:

Demonstrated ability to perform basic mathematical calculations related to measurements, bore distances, depths, and material quantities.

Reasoning Ability:

Demonstrated ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form. Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.

Computer Skills:

• Basic proficiency using smartphones, tablets, GPS systems, and mobile operational applications
• Ability to complete digital locate tickets, field documentation, and operational reporting accurately
• Familiarity with GIS mapping systems, locating technology, and web-based operational platforms preferred
• Ability to use email, mobile communication applications, and internet-based systems effectively

Certifications:

• Valid driver’s license required
• OSHA certification preferred
• Utility locating certifications or damage prevention training preferred
• Ability to obtain company-required safety certifications and utility locating permissions

Supervisory Responsibilities:

This job does not have supervisory responsibilities.

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This position will be performed under the remote work mode. The company will provide the equipment and resources to perform the duties. Employees must be responsible for accommodating the proper workspace and connection (internet) resources to fulfill duties.

Employees working from home should keep their workspace free of safety hazards. To support the health and safety of employees, we advise remote employees to:

Utilize surge protectors for equipment using electrical sources.

Maintain a clear walkway in the workspace.

Install or utilize sufficient lighting.

Implement approved ergonomic processes.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and crouch for extended periods
• Ability to communicate effectively in person and by phone
• Routine, local, or international travel may be required to attend training classes, conduct market research, or other situations necessary for the accomplishment of some or all the daily responsibilities of this position.

Understanding of Job Essentials:

GAC Enterprises LLC is a drug free, harassment-free workplace. All candidates must pass an extensive background check. GAC Enterprises LLC is an equal opportunity employer and does not tolerate harassment, discrimination, or retaliation. I also fully understand the content of this job description, have had the opportunity to ask questions regarding this job description, and have had the job duties and responsibilities, requisites, and physical demands and working conditions explained to me. I am capable of performing the essential functions of this job with or without reasonable accommodation. If I need accommodation, I will ask the hiring manager for it.

The above job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties and standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as assigned by their supervisor.

GAC Enterprises LLC is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.