Utility Watch & Protect ​/ Damage Prevention Technician

Position Summary

The Utility Watch & Protect Technician provides on-site damage-prevention support during excavation and construction activities near underground utility facilities. The technician monitors excavation, verifies the location and visibility of underground facilities, identifies unsafe conditions and potential utility conflicts, communicates with contractors and client representatives, and prepares complete field documentation.

The position may also perform supplemental utility locating and marking using electronic locating equipment, facility maps, engineering drawings, and client records. This field-based employee represents OTM and its client and must demonstrate sound judgment, professional assertiveness, strong safety awareness, and the ability to work independently in active construction environments.

The key responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Monitor excavation and construction activities near underground utilities.
• Help prevent damage to underground utility infrastructure during excavation.
• Ensure contractors follow safe digging practices and approved locate requirements.
• Immediately report and document unsafe conditions, unauthorized excavation, damaged or exposed facilities, near misses, utility conflicts, and other potential hazards to the contractor, OTM supervisor, and designated client representative in accordance with established escalation procedures.
• Communicate with contractors, foremen, and project managers to resolve utility conflicts.
• Perform supplemental, investigative, or emergency utility locating and marking when assigned to support Watch & Protect and damage-prevention activities.
  • Read and interpret utility maps, prints, and engineering drawings to identify underground facilities.
  • Compare field conditions with utility maps and drawings and document discrepancies.
  • Inspect construction sites to verify compliance with utility protection and safety requirements.
• Monitor exposed underground utilities during excavation to help prevent damage.
• Document completed locates using accurate notes, photographs, videos, sketches, and field reports.
• Use a computer, tablet, or mobile device to receive, document, and close excavation notices during regular and after-hours operations.
• Remove and replace manhole or access covers using approved tools and safe lifting procedures when authorized and required. This position does not enter manholes, vaults, or other confined spaces unless separately trained and authorized.
• Perform work outdoors in all weather conditions and during normal business hours, overtime, and after-hours as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Valid New York State (NYS) driver's license with a clean Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) driving record. *

• Ability to safely operate and maintain a company vehicle.
• Successfully pass pre-employment and random drug and alcohol testing.

• Working knowledge of New York State Industrial Code Rule 753 (Protection of Underground Facilities).
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining a high level of safety and professionalism.

* Driver's license will be verified and maintained in the employee's personnel file.

• Ability to lift moderately heavy objects and safely use hand tools and field equipment.
• Ability to walk, stand, bend, and perform manual labor for extended periods under varying field conditions.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions with minimal supervision.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to read and interpret utility maps, drawings, and technical documents.
• Basic computer proficiency and ability to use tablets or mobile devices for field documentation.
• Dependable attendance, punctuality, and the ability to meet established work schedules.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable…