Utility Line Locator

Description

Under the supervision of the Utility Billing Supervisor, this employee locates electric, gas, water, and wastewater utility service lines throughout the City’s service area using electronic detection equipment. The employee interprets and verifies location data, performs visual inspections of work areas, and informs City utility staff and relevant third parties of line locations to avoid damage or service conflicts. The employee interacts with contractors, surveyors, and customers to confirm utility location information, maps new utility installations, coordinates infrastructure location work with City departments and private contractors, and maintains detailed records to comply with Alabama’s One Call system (811 System).

The employee operates equipment (dump truck, backhoe, and tractor), may assist utility installers and maintainers providing services, responds to emergency utility service calls (e.g., gas leaks, water leaks, electrical outages, damaged lines), and reviews new construction sites for utility service locations and potential service concerns. This job is considered safety sensitive and is subject to pre‑employment background checks and random drug screenings.

• Uses electronic detection equipment to locate and mark utility services (electric, water, sewer, and gas).
• Interprets and verifies location data to ensure accuracy; cross‑references with other data sources.
• Informs City utility staff and relevant third parties of service line locations.
• Maps new utility infrastructure as it is installed.
• Operates and maintains ground penetrating radar for locating operations.
• Maintains detailed infrastructure location records to comply with the state’s One Call (811 System).

• Connects residential and commercial service customers to the City’s service network.
• Troubleshoots all service connections to ensure proper operation.
• Installs water meters.

• Responds to utility system emergencies during regular and non‑routine working hours.
• Serves as a member of the designated emergency response team as required.

• Operates dump trucks, backhoes, and tractors used in utility line installation and maintenance.
• Monitors the maintenance required for all equipment and reports needed maintenance to higher management.

• Assists work crews in the installation of utility service mains in new residential and commercial areas.
• Assists in troubleshooting utility lines for proper operation.
• Performs other job‑related duties as required or assigned.

• High school diploma or GED.
• One to three years of work experience in underground utility line locating.
• Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or ability to obtain within six months; must be insurable.
• Professional Utility Locator certification or ability to obtain within a prescribed time after hire.
• Apprentice Gas Fitter certification preferred.
• Ability to work non‑standard hours and emergencies.
• Ability to travel.
• Ability to pass a pre‑employment background check and an initial drug screen.

• Knowledge of City rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Knowledge of City geography, roads, streets, and underground utility systems.
• Knowledge of underground electronic utility detection equipment.
• Knowledge of municipal utility system operations.
• Knowledge of City gas, electric, water and sewer systems.
• Knowledge of heavy equipment operation and use.
• Communication skills to effectively communicate orally and in writing.
• Reading skills to understand and interpret City policies and guidelines.
• Math skills to perform basic calculations.
• Proficiency in operating and maintaining electronic utility infrastructure locating equipment.
• Proficiency in reading and understanding construction drawings and plans.
• Ability to prepare and maintain detailed records.
• Computer skills: operating desktop, laptop computers, and office productivity software.
• Ability to operate heavy equipment such as dump trucks, backhoes, and tractors.
• Professional attitude and courtesy in all interactions.
• Ability to handle dynamic…