What the position entails:
Does the opportunity to travel and the thought of working on projects outside in the field energize you? Are you passionate about Utility Line locating in different terrains and environment and want to work with a like-minded team?
The Utility Locating Technician is responsible for accurately locating, identifying, and mapping underground utilities such as electrical cables, gas lines, water pipes, and telecommunication lines to support construction, design and maintenance activities.
The technician will use specialized equipment and technology to identify the exact location and approximate depth of buried utilities to prevent damage to critical infrastructure, and to provide accurate information to clients who need information about buried facilities. This role requires a keen attention to detail, a solid understanding of utility systems, and a commitment to safety and accuracy.
What you will do:
Use specialized equipment such as electromagnetic (EM) locating equipment, ground penetrating radar (GPR), pin finders and rodders to locate and map underground utility lines (e.g., gas, water, electrical, and telecommunications).
Identify the approximate depth, direction, and type of utilities accurately to ensure that excavation or construction activities can be carried out safely.
Record and document the type of buried utilities, ensuring accuracy and completeness in reports.
Follow safety protocols and guidelines for underground utility locating and avoid damage to existing utility lines during excavations.
Adhere to local regulations and utility company requirements for safe digging practices (e.g., One Call systems, locates before digging).
Wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and promote a safe working environment.
Perform surveys to locate, identify and map existing underground infrastructure for projects, ensuring data is captured for future reference and planning.
Provide clear and concise reports with locating maps and other relevant documentation for use by surveyors, excavators, and project managers.
Produce accurate field notes, sketches, photographs and digital documentation.
Work closely with construction crews, engineers, surveyors, and other field teams to ensure safe and efficient project completion.
Respond to locating requests from contractors or project teams and provide timely and accurate information for planning and construction purposes.
Ensure that all locating equipment is properly maintained and calibrated.
Perform regular inspections and troubleshooting of tools to ensure they are in good working condition.
Communicate effectively with clients, contractors, and other stakeholders to clarify locating information and resolve any issues related to utility locating.
Assist with providing educational guidance to contractors about the utility locating process and safety protocols.
Complete daily logs, inspection reports, and project documentation with detailed descriptions of work performed, including locations and coordinates of utilities found.
Submit maps, photographs, and other technical data as needed for review by senior technicians, project managers, or clients.
What you will bring:
High school diploma or equivalent is required. Additional technical training or certification in geomatics, surveying, or utility locating is a plus.
At least 1-3 years of experience working as a utility locating technician in a municipal environment, or in a related field such as utility inspection, construction, or surveying.
Experience with locating technologies (e.g., EM, GPR) and understanding of underground utility systems is preferred.
Strong knowledge of utility systems, including gas, water, sewer, and telecommunication lines.
Experience with locating equipment, including electromagnetic signal transmitters and receivers, ground-penetrating radar, and GPS devices.
Interpret and work from utility maps, as-built drawings, and site plans.
Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to handle complex field challenges.
Good communication – verbal and written; ability to produce accurate and legible field notes.
Good interpersonal skills for interacting with clients, contractors, and team members.
Ability to work in outdoor environments and potentially hazardous conditions (e.g., extreme weather, construction sites).
Ability to lift and carry locating equipment and other tools as needed.
Comfortable working with hand tools and specialized equipment for prolonged periods.
Skilled at identifying unknown utilities when records are incomplete or inaccurate.
An aptitude for delivering projects on time and budget.
Experience with the use of ATVs/UTVs, snowmobiles and chainsaws would be considered an asset.
A valid driver’s license and can provide a clean driver’s abstract; and
Completed training and valid tickets in First Aid, H2S and CSTS safety training, is an asset.
Job Condition:
Out-of-town work (possible shift work) and frequent travel required.
Ability to carry, lift and push up to 50lbs on a regular basis.
Ability to work outside in all weather conditions.
What we offer :
Comprehensive benefit package including Health, Dental and Health Spending Account coverage, vacation, wellness days, and RRSP matching contributions.
Wage range: $30 -$38/hour depending on experience.
Tools and services to support your mental wellness.
Work-life balance.
Growth and advancement opportunities
Paid professional dues.
Continuing education and professional development.
As an equal opportunity employer, GeoVerra is dedicated to providing a fair and equitable recruitment and selection process. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified individuals, irrespective of abilities and background.
We also recognize that the hiring process should be accessible to everyone. If you require any accommodations at any stage of the recruitment process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a member of our talent attraction team at careers@geoverra.com. This includes any support you may need during virtual interviews or throughout the hiring journey.
All accommodation requests will be handled with confidentiality and respect.
