Utility Locator/Damage Prevention Technician

University of Virginia - Charlottesville, VA

Full-time - Entry Level

Charlottesville, VA

1,001-5,000 employees

Educational Services

About the position

The Utility Locator/Damage Prevention Technician is a safety-oriented role responsible for locating and marking university-owned utilities. This position plays a crucial part in promoting safe excavation practices, preventing damage to infrastructure, and ensuring a safe work environment. The technician will also assist with geographic information systems data maintenance to ensure accurate records and collaborate with project teams in the field.

Responsibilities

• Perform locating and marking of underground utilities including electrical power lines, gas, water, and sewer lines.
• Use a variety of locating equipment, including Ground Penetrating Radar.
• View and respond to VA811 web ticket management system.
• Make timely responses to emergency requests.
• Conduct Damage Prevention Awareness Training Classes.
• Use ArcGIS to access utility maps/records and document corrections.
• Investigate damages to underground facilities and provide training to remediate safety concerns.
• Review construction project documentation for RFID Marker technology placement.
• Collect GPS data on utility and underground infrastructure locations.
• Assist in the design and testing of geospatial applications as part of a collaborative design team.
• Collaborate with project teams to meet locate request schedules and utility investigation project support.
• Provide training to customers on VA811 laws and procedures.
• Respond to emergency locate requests during evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of four years of professional experience locating utilities, utilizing GIS data, and collecting GPS data.
• Ability to obtain a valid Virginia Driver's License.
• Ability to effectively communicate with internal staff and external contractors.
• Ability to utilize locating equipment such as a transmitter and receiver.

Nice-to-haves

• Associates degree in a geospatial or technical field.
• Experience presenting to small groups.
• Locator Certification from Staking University or similar provider.
• Understanding of Virginia Underground Utility Damage Prevention Act and responsibilities.
• Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA.

Benefits

• 22 days of paid time off, increasing with service; 13+ paid holidays each year; Parental and Community Service Leave.
• Health plan with options to meet healthcare and financial needs.
• Retirement through the Virginia Retirement System.
• Tuition and professional development benefits.
• Employee wellness program featuring activities to earn up to $500/year.