Utility Locator

UES; Pineville (NC); On-site; USD 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

UES is seeking a Utility Locator to support geophysical technologies and VDC projects by locating and designating underground utilities. Under supervision, you will assist with fieldwork, data collection, and documentation to help ensure environmental compliance and client satisfaction.

You will work with senior staff, gaining hands-on experience in utility locating, environmental science, and engineering-related projects. The role involves significant field activities and travel.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; an Associate’s degree or coursework in Environmental Science, Engineering Technology, or a related field is preferred.
• Familiarity with basic environmental concepts and willingness to learn industry standards and regulations.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow established protocols.
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office and data entry.

Responsibilities

• Utilize geophysical equipment such as Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), Electromagnetic Induction (EM/EMI), Magnetics, and GNSS to conduct SUE Quality Level B investigations.
• Understand how to read record drawings, as-builts, site plans, and other documents relevant to underground utilities.
• Support field monitoring activities, including equipment setup, calibration, and routine maintenance.
• Record and organize field data accurately and assist in preparing basic reports and logs.
• Follow environmental testing and sampling procedures to ensure reliable results.
• Learn and apply safety standards, environmental regulations, and company policies.

Skills

Attention to detail

Team collaboration

Outdoor work

Willingness to learn

Education

High school diploma

Associate degree preferred

Tools

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)

Electromagnetic Induction (EMI)

GNSS equipment

CAD

GIS

Job description

Overview

At UES, we’re a team of more than 4,000 engineers, scientists, geologists, inspectors, technicians, and drillers united by a shared purpose—to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. As a national leader in geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, and materials testing and inspection, we collaborate on transformative projects across transportation, energy, water, healthcare, and more. Learn more about the benefits of joining Team UES and our core values at careers.teamues.com.

Position Overview

The Utility Locator supports geophysical technologies and virtual design consulting (VDC) projects through the successful locating and designating of underground utilities.

Overview

At UES, we’re a team of more than 4,000 engineers, scientists, geologists, inspectors, technicians, and drillers united by a shared purpose—to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. As a national leader in geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, and materials testing and inspection, we collaborate on transformative projects across transportation, energy, water, healthcare, and more. Learn more about the benefits of joining Team UES and our core values at careers.teamues.com.

Position Overview

The Utility Locator supports geophysical technologies and virtual design consulting (VDC) projects through the successful locating and designating of underground utilities.

Under close supervision, this role assists with fieldwork, data collection, and routine documentation to help ensure projects meet environmental regulations, exceed client expectations, and support industry best practices.

The Utility Locator works alongside senior staff and project managers, gaining hands‑on experience in utility locating, environmental science, and engineering‑related projects.

Responsibilities

• Utilize various geophysical equipment such as Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), Electromagnetic Induction (EM/EMI), Magnetics, as well as GNSS equipment to conduct Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Quality Level B investigations.
• Understand of how to read record drawings, as-builts, site plans, and other documents relevant to the depiction of underground utilities.
• Support field monitoring activities, including equipment setup, calibration, and routine maintenance.
• Record and organize field data accurately and assist in preparing basic reports and logs.
• Follow established procedures for environmental testing and sampling to ensure reliable results.
• Learn and apply safety standards, environmental regulations, and company policies in daily tasks.
• Maintain tools, equipment, and supplies used in field and laboratory work.
• Provide support in preparing documentation for permit applications and compliance reporting.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support project goals and company initiatives.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; an Associate’s degree or coursework in Environmental Science, Engineering Technology, or a related field is preferred.
• Familiarity with basic environmental concepts and willingness to learn industry standards and regulations.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow established protocols.
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office and data entry.
• Effective communication skills and ability to work well as part of a team.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and perform physical tasks such as lifting equipment.

Preferred Qualifications

• At least 1-2 years of private utility locating utilizing radio detection, Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), and other geophysical tools.
• Experience with utilizing CAD, GIS, and other mapping software.
• Prior experience in geology field work, geophysics, or civil engineering with knowledge in construction, geotechnical and/or environmental services.
• National Utility Locating Contractors Association (NULCA) Accreditation, knowledge of Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE), ASCE 38-02, ASCE 38-22 experience with utilizing survey equipment, Laser Scanner, Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) and Total Station.
• Ability to read and interpret construction documents and maps.
• Ability to accurately complete field-testing paperwork and detailed figures.
• Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from clients, contractors, and colleagues.

Travel Requirements

• This position requires frequent travel, at least 70% of the time, to support business objectives and client engagements.
• Travel may be both scheduled and on short notice, depending on project needs.
• Destinations typically include job sites, field locations, or regional offices, where work may be conducted in outdoor or operational environments.
• Adherence to all company safety protocols and use of PPE is required during travel and on‑site.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Days and hours for this position are typically Monday‑Friday.
• Some weekend, overtime work and/or overnight work and travel may be required.
• Job site locations may require up to 50‑60% overnight and out‑of‑town travel; you may be required to drive hundreds of miles per day.
• Work is primarily conducted outdoors with exposure to outdoor conditions, including:
  • Sites that may not be accessible by vehicle, requiring travel on foot through wetlands, swamps, grasslands, construction zones, and other uneven or rugged terrain with natural and man‑made obstacles such as sand, brush, and debris.
  • Moderate to loud noise levels due to lab equipment, field operations, and construction environments.
  • Exposure to dirt, dust, chemicals, sun, heat, humidity, and varying weather conditions as part of field sample collection and testing.
• Physical requirements include:
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 80lbs. of equipment.
  • Ability to stand, walk, drive, and operate lab and field equipment for extended periods.
  • Ability to bend, twist, reach, stoop, kneel, climb, and balance as needed during both lab and fieldwork.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in both verbal and written formats in varied environments, often while wearing PPE.

EEO Statement

UES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is proud to recruit the most qualified candidates. Please see our full EEO Statement at the bottom of the page here