Utility Systems Locator III/II

City of Longview WA; Longview (WA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Longview is seeking a Utilities Locator to identify and mark underground lines during construction, read blueprints, and operate locators such as EM locators, GPR, and metal detectors. This position requires documenting locations and maintaining safety compliance.

The role includes fieldwork across city sites, driving City vehicles, and collaborating with engineers, contractors, and the public. A high school diploma and driver’s license are required, with training and certifications

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience with locating equipment and maps is preferred.
• Valid driver’s license required.

Responsibilities

• Identify and mark underground utility lines (water, sewer, electrical, etc.).
• Read blueprints and utility maps to locate utilities.
• Use locating equipment (EM locators, GPR, metal detector).
• Ensure safety regulations and codes are followed.
• Communicate locations and safety concerns to the public, contractors, and supervisors.
• Maintain records and prepare location reports.
• Respond to emergencies involving utility lines.
• Drive City vehicles between job sites and locations.
• Perform other duties as required.

Skills

Locating equipment proficiency

Record maintenance

Communication skills

Reading maps/blueprints

Analytical problem solving

Independent work

Mathematical calculations

Safety practices

Vision accuracy

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

First Aid/CPR certification

Traffic Control Card

Level 3 ACT/Work Keys tests (Applied Math/Applied Technology)

NULCA Certification Program

Tools

Electromagnetic locators

Ground-penetrating radar

Metal detector

Job description

Exam and Application Information

Position closes November 24th, at 8pm. Applicants must pass a pre-Employment exam. We have partnered with Lower Columbia College (LCC) in Longview, WA to administer our exams. The exam must be taken no later than November 30, 2026. The exam cost is $60.00. Applicants will need a Level 3 or higher in each section to be considered. Test scores are good for 5 years. Financial assistance is available through LCC. If you have already taken the exam, within the 5 year time period, please attach the scores to your application.

Current City of Longview Employees: If you have already taken a previous pre-employment basic skills general exam with the City, please indicate that in your application. Employees who were hired without pre-employment testing in their current classification will be able to apply to other positions within their classification without having to take the pre-employment test.

Position Information

This position is responsible for identifying and marking underground utility lines such as water, sewer, storm, traffic, and electrical systems to prevent damage during construction activities. This role involves reading blueprints, using specialized equipment, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. A public works utilities locator is important to infrastructure maintenance and construction. This position is essential for ensuring safety and preventing damage to underground utility lines during excavation and construction activities.

Salary range: Initial placement for new employees is generally at Step 1 through Step 3 of the assigned salary range. Placement within this range is based on the candidate’s qualifications and relevant experience.

1. Identify and mark underground utility lines, including: water mains, electrical systems, stormwater lines, sewer lines, traffic lines, and street lights.
2. Read and interpret blueprints and utility maps to determine the location of utilities.
3. Utilize specialized equipment such as: electromagnetic locators, ground-penetrating radar, and metal detector.
4. Ensure compliance with safety regulations and local codes.
5. Communicate effectively with your supervisor, contractors, project managers, and the public regarding utility locations and safety concerns.
6. Maintain accurate records and prepare reports on utility locations.
7. Respond to emergency situations involving utility lines.
8. Participate in training and mentoring new staff.
9. Drive City vehicles to conduct locates and travel between job sites and other City locations.
10. Clean the Utility Operations Center shop facility and vehicles.
11. Use personal computers and software such as Word, Excel, and the division's maintenance management system software.
12. Perform other duties as required.

Locator III

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 1 year experience using locating equipment and tools.
• Experience reading and interpreting utility maps and engineering plans.
• Possess and maintain a valid unrestricted Driver's License, except for corrected vision.
• Complete assigned locator training class within twelve (12) months or as scheduled.
• First Aid/CPR Certified Card or obtain within ninety (90) calendar days or as scheduled.
• Traffic Control Flagging Card or obtain within ninety (90) calendar days or as scheduled.
• Must pass Level 3 of each of the 2 ACT/Work Keys - Applied Math and Applied Technology Tests through Lower Columbia College (LCC) or provide passing certificates or current employees of the City of Longview must have passed the City of Longview General Skills Exam.

Locator II

• Must meet all the requirements of a Locator III AND one year after completion in the step progression for Locator III AND successful performance review AND the possess and maintain the following certifications:
  • National Utility Locating Contractors Association (NULCA) Certification Program

A utilities locator must possess a variety of knowledge areas to effectively perform their duties. Key knowledge requirements include:

• Utility Maps: Understanding how to read and interpret utility maps and engineering plans.
• Construction Practices: Familiarity with construction techniques and safety procedures to prevent accidents during excavation.
• Utility Systems: Knowledge of different types of utility systems, including water, wastewater, and electrical lines.

• In addition to knowledge, specific skills are crucial for success in this role:
• Locating Equipment Proficiency: Ability to use tools such as ground-penetrating radar and metal detectors to accurately locate underground utilities.
• Record Maintenance: Skills in maintaining accurate records of utility locations and any changes made to utility maps.
• Communication: Strong communication skills to effectively interact with the public, contractors, and team members.
• Familiarity with reading maps and blueprints.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects.
• Perform mathematical calculations.
• Safe work practices.
• Must possess good field of vision, depth, and color perception, near, mid-range and far vision.
• Communicate effectively both written and verbalin English.
• Deal courteously and tactfully with the public and other city employees.

Important Notes

To take advantage of Veteran's Preference, please attach your DD-214, member 4 long form, or your NGB-22. Please blackout your social security number and date of birth, or any other sensitive information before uploading and attaching the document.

The City of Longview is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.

The City of Longview provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment and selection process. Applicants who need accommodation to participate in the application, testing, or interview process, or may need this announcement in an alternative format may contact Human Resources at 360-442-5004 to request assistance.