Utility Locator

About the Role

USIC, a nationwide leader in underground utility damage prevention, is seeking diligent and safety-focused individuals for the position of Utility Locator in Waukegan, IL. This is a full-time, daytime role involving independent outdoor fieldwork with a strong commitment to quality and safety. The company conducts over 84 million locates annually for a wide range of utilities including telecommunications, electricity, gas, water, and sewer.

Key Responsibilities

• Safely and accurately locate underground utilities such as telecommunications lines, electric power cables, cable TV, gas pipelines, water, and sewer systems within designated areas.
• Conduct thorough searches for underground infrastructure, mark precise locations, complete required paperwork, and document each locate through photography.
• Operate company-provided vehicles to carry out fieldwork independently, managing ticket and claims processes with advanced technology.
• Meet a 48-hour turnaround time for most locates, including working post-holiday days, some weekends, overtime, on-call shifts, and night work as business demands.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Ability and willingness to perform outdoor work under various weather conditions; prior outdoor experience is advantageous.
• Comfort and proficiency with technology to manage work-related tasks and equipment.
• Availability to work weekends, overtime, and be on-call during nights and holidays.
• Successful completion of a drug screen due to the safety-sensitive nature of the position.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving history.
• Physical ability to work in confined spaces, and to walk, bend, and lift items up to 75 pounds.
• Color vision sufficient to differentiate color-coded wiring and underground markings.
• Capability to read, interpret, and use locate tickets, maps, and technical prints effectively.
• Strong communication skills for interaction with colleagues, customers, contractors, and residents.

Compensation

The hourly wage starts at $21.00 for new locators and can rise to $33.00 for those with extensive prior locating experience.

Benefits and Perks

• Fully paid training from day one to ensure readiness and skill development.
• Provision of high-quality company vehicle and fuel card, so no personal vehicle expenses are incurred during work.
• Company-issued phone and equipment featuring advanced technology tools.
• Access to DailyPay for flexible and timely wage access.
• Comprehensive insurance options including medical, dental, vision, and life coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching contributions to support long-term savings.
• Paid time off and holidays available, even during the first year of employment.
• Extra compensation for weekend and holiday on-call duties, regardless of emergency call-outs.
• Career Path Program recognizing high performers with special titles and promotions.
• USIC All Stars recognition program awarding points redeemable for gifts based on company values and milestones.
• Annual Tenure Boots Program providing $200 vouchers for new work boots on anniversaries.
• Education Partnership and Scholarship programs offering discounted tuition and scholarships through Indiana Tech, including credit for utility training or military service.
• Employee discounts at major retailers and service providers.

Additional Information

This position supports public safety and community well-being and is open to all qualified applicants, including veterans. Candidates must be prepared for potential message and data charges when communicating with the hiring team. The company adheres to equal opportunity employment practices.