Utility Locator

Job Description Summary

Provides skilled work and oversight associated with locating and marking City utility lines to minimize accidental damage or service disruption during construction. The role involves managing, planning, and scheduling daily locating, tracking, and marking of the City's utilities—including water distribution, wastewater collection, reclaimed water, stormwater, traffic signals, and fiber optics. The Utility Locator also serves as a field arm for customer service representatives and assists in responding to customer inquiries.

• Read utility maps, as-built drawings, and blueprints to accurately locate and mark utility lines using stakes, flags, and paint; coordinate changes and corrections.
• Organize, prioritize, and route blue stake requests; determine when broader sections need marking once contractors begin excavation.
• Maintain the Arizona Blue Stake database and keep program files and records current.
• Communicate and coordinate operational changes based on field observations with the Engineering Department.
• Provide customer support by meeting property owners, contractors, developers, and others to locate utilities and explain service responsibilities.
• Assist in emergency situations such as system breaks, locate affected areas, and erect safety barricades.
• Execute routine and emergency maintenance, construction, and repair of infrastructure used in the water distribution division; maintain landscape integrity and complete work orders.
• Assist in installing, maintaining, replacing, and repairing water mains, service connections, fire hydrants, valves, and related components; notify customers of service interruptions per Public Works policies.
• Operate, inspect, and maintain water distribution infrastructure; log daily records and read meters, gauges, charts, and instruments; detect mechanical or process deficiencies and report findings.
• Deliver outstanding customer service; maintain open communication with internal and external customers, including co‑workers, contractors, residents, and other City departments.

• High school diploma or equivalent (four years of high school or equivalency).
• Minimum two years of related field experience; at least 3 years locating underground facilities including water and sewer.
• Minimum two years of independent work experience with little supervision.
• Minimum two years of experience maintaining a water distribution system.
• Experience dealing with customers and the public in a customer service environment.
• Valid driver’s license; must obtain ADEQ Grade I Operator License in Distribution within 12 months of hire.
• Strong reading, writing, math, and communication skills; ability to read technical manuals and write reports.
• Understanding of industry safety standards and City policies (Blue Stake, OSHA, MAG).

• First Three Months
  • Become familiar with City and Department policies and procedures.
  • Review the City’s and Department’s Strategic Action Plan.
  • Complete safety training and attend weekly safety tailgate meetings.
  • Learn City boundaries, service areas, utility systems, fiber optics, and traffic signals.
  • Perform routine and emergency blue‑stake markings accurately and on time.
• First Six Months
  • Handle daily service orders and customer requests professionally.
  • Perform daily data entry and provide activity reports.
  • Familiarize with approved materials list and engineering construction guidelines.
  • Maintain tool and equipment inventory.
• Twelve Months
  • Learn the City’s purchasing system and prepare purchase requisitions.
  • Obtain ADEQ Grade I Certification in Water Distribution.
  • Attend blue‑stake meetings and update on regulation and policy changes.

• Vacation Leave: 14 days per year, increasing with longevity.
• Sick Leave: 12 days per year.
• Paid Holidays: 12 per year, including a floating holiday.
• Flexible Holiday: 24 hours per calendar year.
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance available at group rates.
• Flexible Spending Accounts for health care and dependent care.
• Short‑Term Disability Insurance city‑paid.
• Cancer Benefit city‑paid.
• Life Insurance city‑paid, valued at twice annual salary ($400,000 max); additional coverage available for self or dependents at employee cost.
• Longevity pay beginning at year six.
• Tuition Assistance: $5,250 per calendar year.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• On‑site wellness center/clinic.
• Access to the Goodyear Recreation Center.
• Robust employee well‑being program.
• Free identity theft monitoring and protection.
• 457 Deferred Compensation Plan with 2% city match.
• Health Savings retirement contribution of $22.50 city contribution (employee $12.50).
• Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) defined benefit plan with mandatory city and employee contributions %; includes long‑term disability benefit.