Utility Locator III / Geophysical Specialist III

RETTEW; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); Hybrid; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

ESOP participation in a 100% employee-

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vis

401(k) with company match

Paid time off and holidays

Career advancement opportunities

Strong safety culture and training

Job summary

RETTEW is seeking an experienced Utility Locator III / Geophysical Specialist III to support our Geophysics and Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Team. This role leads advanced utility locating and geophysical field activities, supports test hole operations, prepares technical documentation, and contributes to client satisfaction through quality execution and professionalism.

Based in Pittsburgh area with hybrid field work, you will perform EM locating, GPR and GPS/GNSS data collection,

Qualifications

• 3–5+ years of professional utility locating or SUE field experience.
• Proficiency with EM locating, GPR, and related designation techniques.
• Ability to work independently on active job sites with minimal supervision.
• Working knowledge of GPS/GNSS surveying methods.
• Experience supporting air/hydro-vac excavation operations.
• Ability to prepare professional-quality reports and exhibits.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Willingness to travel periodically for project needs.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to perform field work in varying conditions.

Responsibilities

• Perform advanced subsurface utility locating using EM, metal detection, duct rodding, and GPR techniques.
• Locate and designate water, sewer, gas, electric, fiber, telecom, sanitary, and storm utilities in various site conditions.
• Lead or independently execute concrete scanning, rebar mapping, and advanced GPR investigations.
• Support and manage air and hydro-excavation (test hole) activities, including coordination and field oversight.
• Utilize GPS/GNSS equipment for data collection and field documentation.
• Prepare clear, accurate field notes, reports, sketches, and exhibits for project deliverables.
• Coordinate with project managers and engineers to support scope, schedule, and client expectations.
• Maintain a strong commitment to safety, quality control, and RETTEW field standards.
• Mentor junior field staff as needed and contribute to continuous improvement efforts.

Tools

GPS/GNSS equipment

Job description

Introduction

RETTEW is seeking an experienced Utility Locator III / Geophysical Specialist III to support our Geophysics and Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Team. This role is ideal for a seasoned utility locating professional who brings strong field expertise, sound judgment, and the ability to independently execute complex subsurface investigations while supporting project delivery and client relationships.

Job Type

Full-time

Description

Introduction

RETTEW is seeking an experienced Utility Locator III / Geophysical Specialist III to support our Geophysics and Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Team. This role is ideal for a seasoned utility locating professional who brings strong field expertise, sound judgment, and the ability to independently execute complex subsurface investigations while supporting project delivery and client relationships.

About RETTEW

RETTEW is a multi-discipline engineering, environmental, and planning firm serving public and private clients throughout the Mid-Atlantic and beyond. As a 100% employee-owned company, we are driven by a culture of accountability, collaboration, and long-term thinking. Our teams take pride in delivering high-quality, practical solutions while investing in the growth and development of our people.

Work Environment

Hybrid

Locations: Pittsburgh, PA or Akron–Canton, OH

(Field-based work with regional travel as needed)

Position Summary

The Utility Locator III / Geophysical Specialist III plays a critical role in delivering accurate subsurface utility data to support infrastructure, transportation, environmental, and development projects. This position leads advanced utility locating and geophysical field activities, supports test hole operations, prepares technical documentation, and contributes to client satisfaction through quality execution and professionalism.

Responsibilities / Day-to-Day

• Perform advanced subsurface utility locating using electromagnetic (EM), metal detection, duct rodding, and GPR techniques.
• Locate and designate water, sewer, gas, electric, fiber, telecom, sanitary, and storm utilities in a variety of site conditions.
• Lead or independently execute concrete scanning, rebar mapping, and advanced GPR investigations.
• Support and manage air and hydro-excavation (test hole) activities, including coordination and field oversight.
• Utilize GPS/GNSS equipment for data collection and field documentation.
• Prepare clear, accurate field notes, reports, sketches, and exhibits for project deliverables.
• Coordinate with project managers and engineers to support scope, schedule, and client expectations.
• Maintain a strong commitment to safety, quality control, and RETTEW field standards.
• Mentor junior field staff as needed and contribute to continuous improvement efforts.

Qualifications

Required

• 3–5+ years of professional utility locating or subsurface utility engineering field experience.
• Demonstrated proficiency with EM locating, GPR, and related designation techniques.
• Experience working independently on active job sites with minimal supervision.
• Working knowledge of GPS/GNSS surveying methods.
• Experience managing or supporting air/hydro-vac excavation operations.
• Ability to prepare professional-quality reports and exhibits.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Willingness to travel periodically for project needs.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to perform field work in varying conditions.

Preferred

• Experience with CCTV pipe inspection (storm and sanitary sewer).
• Exposure to advanced geophysical methods beyond traditional utility locating.
• Prior experience supporting SUE Level B or higher investigations.
• Client-facing experience or involvement in field coordination with owners and contractors.

Safety & Compliance Requirements

This position is designated as safety-sensitive and requires successful completion of all pre-employment screenings as a condition of employment. Responsibilities include operating company-owned vehicles and performing field-based work in active construction and utility environments. Continued compliance with RETTEW’s safety policies is required throughout employment.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary aligned to experience and market
• ESOP participation in a 100% employee-owned company
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and holidays
• Career advancement opportunities based on performance
• Strong safety culture and investment in training and equipment

RETTEW is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

If you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process, please contact us at [e-mail]

to request assistance.

Requirements

Requirements listed above.