Water Line Locator Technician

Job Overview

The fundamental reason this classification exists is to identify and mark underground water (and other) utility lines before excavation using electronic equipment, maps, and physical probing, preventing damage, ensuring safety, and documenting findings for contractors and engineers. Key duties involve operating locators (like GPR/magnetic sensors), reading blueprints, calculating depth, maintaining records, and providing clear, accurate marks (paint/flags) on the ground, all while working outdoors in various conditions.

• Response to 811 locate request
• Locate & Mark:
  Use electronic locators, GPR, and metal detectors to find underground pipes, cables, and conduits.
• Map Interpretation:
  Analyze utility maps, engineering plans, and GIS data to plan locate efforts.
• Field Verification:
  Physically verify utility locations using probes, shovels, and measuring tools.
• Marking:
  Accurately mark lines with paint and flags for construction crews.
• Reporting:
  Create reports, update maps (GIS), and document findings.

Knowledge/skills:

• Interpret utility maps
• Must be able to communicate with engineers, contractors, City staff and homeowners.

Ability to:

• Establish priorities for own workload based upon such factors as the need for immediate action and work objectives.
• Communicate orally with co-workers in face-to-face one-on-one settings, or using devices.
• Work cooperatively with other City employees and the public.
• Work safely without presenting a direct threat to self or others.
• Work in a variety of weather conditions with exposure to the elements.
• Exposed to computer screens
• Travel to multiple job sites daily.
• Work under hazardous conditions where physical danger exists due to mechanical equipment (i.e., grinding, cutting, crushing, etc.).
• Work in small cramped areas.
• Climb ladders or steps to enter or exit an equipment cab.
• Climb ladders or steps to reach objects.
• Lift arms above shoulder level.
• Work at heights greater than ten feet.
• Travel across rough, uneven, or rocky surfaces.
• Move heavy objects (50 pounds or more) short distances (20 feet or less).
• Move light objects (less than 20 pounds) long distances (more than 20 feet).
• Bend or stoop repeatedly or continually over time.
• Ability to successfully pass a background check and any other pre-employment screenings.

Must have a high school diploma or GED.

Must be able to pass State Certification Test within a year of hire.

Locator experience is a must but will train the right person.

Monday – Friday including occasional weekends. Will be on call including holidays.

The job description is a summary of the job's typical functions, not a comprehensive list of all possible responsibilities.