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Utility Locator I Salary in the United States

How much does a Utility Locator I make in the United States?

As of September 01, 2026, the average salary for a Utility Locator I in the United States is $43,368 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $21.

However, a Utility Locator I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $51,556
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $39,616 to $47,654
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $36,200
Salary Factors Salary-Boosting Skills Salary by Experience Related Job Salaries Top Paying Cities Explore Related Jobs

Key Factors That Influence Utility Locator I Salaries

A Utility Locator I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.

How Experience Level Affects Utility Locator I Salaries?

Experience is a primary driver of a Utility Locator I's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:

  • Entry-Level (less than 1 year): $43,088
  • Early Career (1-2 years): $43,816
  • Mid-Level (2-4 years): $44,455
  • Senior-Level (5-8 years): $44,647
  • Expert (over 8 years): $44,775
Levels Salary
Entry Level Utility Locator I$43,088
Intermediate Level Utility Locator I$43,816
Senior Level Utility Locator I$44,455
Specialist Level Utility Locator I$44,647
Expert Level Utility Locator I$44,775
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How Do Utility Locator I Salaries Vary from State to State?

Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Utility Locator Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
  • District of Columbia: $48,017.
  • California: $47,835.
  • Massachusetts: $47,197.

Top Paying Cities for Utility Locator Is

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $54,700
  • San Francisco: $54,101
  • Oakland: $52,961

Utility Locator I Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

Utility Locator I salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $47,719. While startup companies pay approximate $40,439.

Utility Locator I Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $40,439
Growth Stage 51~500 $42,749
Established 501~5000 $46,104
Enterprise 5000+ $47,719

Utility Locator I Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how a Utility Locator I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.

Last Updated on September 01, 2026
$39,616
Average $43,368/year
$47,654
$3,301
Average $3,614/month
$3,971
$762
Average $834/week
$916
$19
Average $21/hour
$23
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $47,654 $3,971 $916 $23
Average $43,368 $3,614 $834 $21
25th Percentile $39,616 $3,301 $762 $19

Utility Locator I Salary Growth & Career Path

Utility Locator I

Next Role

For a Utility Locator I, the most direct path to higher earnings is advancing to the Utility Locator II role. This promotion typically comes with a significant pay increase, bringing the average annual salary to $68,766 - a projected growth of 59% over your current level.

Most common benefits for Utility Locator I

  • Social Security
  • 401 (k)
  • Disability
  • Healthcare
  • Pension
  • Time Off (days)

Common company salaries for Utility Locator I

Here are companies hiring for Utility Locator I and their salaries, click below for more details.

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Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Utility Locator I job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.

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FAQ about Utility Locator I

1. Where can a Utility Locator I earn the most?

A Utility Locator I's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Utility Locator I earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Utility Locator I is $54,700.

2. What is the highest pay for Utility Locator I?

The highest pay for Utility Locator I is $51,556.

3. What is the lowest pay for Utility Locator I?

The lowest pay for Utility Locator I is $36,200.

4. What are the responsibilities of Utility Locator I?

Responsible for locating underground utility lines like gas pipes, water mains, and electric cables. Conducts surveys, analyzes utility maps, and uses specialized equipment like electromagnetic locators, ground-penetrating radar (GPR), and acoustic gear to trace buried lines. Identifies and marks locations using flags, paint, or other indicators. Documents and/or diagrams location information. Requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Requires a valid driver's license. Typically reports to a supervisor. Works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. May require 0-1 year of general work experience.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.

We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)

With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.

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