Full Time Utility Locator

Overview: We are seeking a skilled and safety-focused Locator Technician to support Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) operations for underground utility construction projects. The HDD Locator is responsible for accurately tracking drill head location, depth, and alignment to ensure successful installation of underground utilities while maintaining compliance with safety standards and project specifications. This position is full‑time, year‑round, and typically works close to home with only limited travel required for training.
The pay for this position ranges from *$22.62 to $41.42 per hour. *Some positions may also offer additional compensation, such as bonuses or equity awards.

This role includes a $5,000 sign‑on bonus (payout terms apply) and may qualify for relocation assistance.

Outside Plant Construction Technicians can also earn up to $75 per week in incentives when your team meets production targets.

Operate and maintain HDD locating equipment to accurately track drill path and depth.
Communicate continuously with the drill operator to guide bore placement and avoid existing underground utilities.
Install, maintain, test, and repair buried and aerial fiber lines.
Operate construction equipment such as trenchers, plows, excavators, and locators.
Climb poles, ladders, and structures; operate bucket trucks as needed.
Support fiber splicing and repair activities.
Restore job sites and keep accurate project labels and markings.
Hands‑on, outdoor work building real infrastructure that matters.
Flexible, full‑time year‑round schedule.
Work with a company that has 50+ years of telecom experience and a strong reputation for fiber innovation.
Training:
Safety training, pole climbing, bucket truck operation.
Fiber optic basics: fusion splicing, fault detection, OTDR.
Construction equipment operation (drill rigs, trenchers, mini excavators).
CDL training for qualified associates.
The duration of training varies based on the team assignment. Training for underground teams is 3 weeks, with an additional 1 week required for aerial training.

Previous experience as an HDD Locator, Directional Drill Locator, or related underground utility construction role.

• Knowledge of underground utility construction practices and damage prevention procedures.
• 6+ months experience in customer service, utility or electrical work, OR a technical certification, OR military service.
• Willingness to work overtime and varied shifts as needed.

Conduct general construction tasks in various weather conditions, adhering to safety standards.
Aids in transporting construction equipment to and from the worksite.
Assists with and executes the installation of aerial and buried fiber based on maps, staking sheets, and locate markings.
Operates hand tools, cable locators, and testing equipment as needed.
Climbs poles, ladders, towers, and other structures as required, utilizing a bucket truck when necessary.
Labels and marks fiber optic facilities accurately.
Utilizes dispatching applications and relevant tools for project coordination.
Supports fiber splicing, repairs, and outside plant maintenance activities.
Restores landscapes to original condition upon project completion.
6+ months experience in any combination of the following areas: customer service, electrical or utility construction, -OR-technical certification (or higher) -OR- current military service, or prior military service with honorable discharge.

• Must follow the TDS attendance guidelines in order to meet TDS's business needs including but not limited to our obligations to our customers and to our customers' needs.
• Must have the ability to obtain a Class A CDL. A current CDL is preferred at hire, but TDS will train and certify eligible associates through its in-house CDL certification program after hire.

Ability to climb poles, ladders, towers, and other structures as needed. Upon hire, must successfully pass all components of the Safety Training course curriculum.
Upon hire, must successfully complete customer-specific requirements, which may include a background check administered by the customer.
Horizontal directional drilling experience preferred.
May require occasional travel.
Must be willing to work overtime as needed. May be required to work various/swing shifts as business needs dictate.
This role involves frequent physical activity, including standing, walking, kneeling, climbing, and lifting up to 50 pounds regularly (occasionally over 100 pounds). Work conditions often include outdoor weather, attics, crawl spaces, and high-risk areas like high voltage zones, trenches, and manholes. Exposure to heavy equipment, fumes, vibration, extreme temperatures, and loud noise is common.

We believe in taking care of our team, which is why we offer comprehensive benefits to support your health, financial well-being, and overall happiness. Medical Coverage

• Dental Coverage
• Life Insurance
• Seven Paid National Holidays & One Floating Holiday
• Adoption & Surrogacy Assistance
• Employee Assistance & Wellness Programs

Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
In addition to these benefits, all associates will have the opportunity to participate in our Associate Resource Groups, which are designed to encourage community and facilitate professional development. TDS Telecom provides high-speed internet, TV entertainment, and phone services to a diverse range of communities, including small to mid-sized urban, suburban, and rural areas across the U.With over 50 years of experience, TDS is committed to building and expanding fiber optic networks that bring cutting-edge connectivity to neighborhoods nationwide. Serving over 1 million connections, our mission is to create a better world by delivering innovative communication solutions that enhance the way people live, work, and connect. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by law.

The pay for this position ranges from *$22.62 to $41.42 per hour.
*Some positions may also offer additional compensation, such as bonuses or equity awards.