Utility Locator I

McKim & Creed, Inc.; Panama City (FL); Hybrid; USD 38,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

ESOP

Competitive pay

Mentoring program

Tuition reimbursement

Career growth

Job summary

McKim & Creed, Inc. invites applications for an entry-level Utility Locator I in Florida. The role focuses on learning to locate underground utilities, interpreting maps and records, and supporting field crews with safety-first practices.

Candidates should have a High School/GED and up to 5 years of experience. The company offers ESOP ownership, multiple offices, mentoring, and professional development to help you grow your career.

Qualifications

• High School/GED or equivalent preferred, specialized training from a vo-tech school.
• Entry level 0 to 5 years of proven experience as a utility locator or SUE Technician.
• Proven experience as a utility locator or a similar role.

Responsibilities

• Learn to locate underground utility lines using maps, records, and field resources.
• Operate subsurface utility engineering field equipment following safety protocols.
• Collaborate with construction crews to ensure safe excavation and installation of utilities.
• Maintain accurate records of utility locations and updates.
• Perform regular inspections and assessments to identify hazards.

Skills

utility locating

maps & records interpretation

safety awareness

communication skills

driving

Education

High School/GED

vocational training

Tools

electromagnetic locators

ground-penetrating radar

Job description

At McKim & Creed, we are an employee‑owned firm with more than 800 employees in offices throughout the U.S. including NC, SC, FL, VA, GA, TX, LA, PA, OH and DE with a culture centered around "People Helping People" grounded by our core values (1) respect for people, (2) customer satisfaction, (3) continuous improvement, (4) safety and (5) ownership, which drives our mission to deliver exceptional engineering and geomatics solutions. We are a leading top 150 ENR‑ranked firm seeking highly motivated Utility Locator I inspired to elevate and grow your career to the next level.

We have an exciting opportunity to join our team in Florida. If you want to work at a company that will help improve the future of the communities where we live, work and play, we’re glad you found McKim & Creed.

Join Our Team of Geospatial Experts Video

YOUR DAY‑DAY WILL INCLUDE:

• Learning to utilize maps, records, and other resources to accurately locate underground utility lines.
• Learning to utilize Subsurface Utility Engineering field equipment: ground‑penetrating radar, electromagnetic designating equipment, sewer camera, probe rod, jackhammer, chop saw, pneumatic tampers, vacuum excavation equipment, and other geophysical means using all safety protocols, industry standards and guidelines.
• Collaborate with construction crews and contractors to ensure the safe excavation and installation of utilities.
• Maintain accurate records of utility locations and updates.
• Conduct regular inspections and assessments to identify potential hazards or issues.
• Assist with maintenance of vehicles, equipment, and work sites.
• Adhere to all company policies and procedures.
• May perform other duties as assigned.

WHAT YOU NEED:

• High School/GED or equivalent preferred, specialized training from a vo‑tech school.
• Entry level 0 to 5 years of proven experience as a utility locator or SUE Technician.
• Proven experience as a utility locator or a similar role.
• Strong knowledge of underground utility systems and the ability to interpret maps and records.
• Familiarity with utility locating equipment, such as electromagnetic locators and ground‑penetrating radar.
• Walking outdoors for long periods of time through all kinds of terrain, including urban, suburban, and rural locations, and working under adverse conditions (heat, cold, hills, swamps, wildlife & insects, high traffic areas).
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Occasional overnight travel may be required.
• Work 50+ hours during busy periods.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds, carry, and operate equipment as needed on the project.
• Ability to travel daily including the Gulf Breeze/Navarre area.
• Excellent attention to detail and the ability to work in fast‑paced environments.
• Can work unsupervised when required.
• Current Commercial Driver's License is a plus.
• Background & motor vehicle checks, and pre‑employment drug screening are conditions of employment.

WHAT WILL MAKE YOU STAND OUT:

• Self‑motivated with an entrepreneurial spirit.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills.
• Motivated to learn and develop your career path.
• Aligned to McKim & Creed's core values and culture.
• Sound functional/technical skills in the role.

WHAT WE OFFER:

• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP): All employees are owners & benefit from profits earned.
• Competitive pay + paid holidays, bereavement, and parental, medical, and military leave.
• Multiple office locations to work from: Stick close to home or travel for a change of scenery.
• Growth opportunities & training: Grow confidently in your career with our mentoring & training options.
• Professional development: Tuition reimbursement, early career professional program, online courses & more.
• Work that makes a difference: See the direct impact your work has on our communities.
• Collaborative, supportive team: People to help you solve problems, cheer successes & encourage you along the way.

McKim & Creed is an Equal Opportunity and Affiramtive Action Employer, and VEVRAA Federal Contractor and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status and maintains a Drug Free Workplace.

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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