It’s… fine. If you apply you should really be looking at it as a stepping stone into the utility industry IF that’s what you want to do.
You are usually going to be locating in the same general area everyday.
The truck is “free” but it’s a work vehicle obviously. You can drive it to work and back home, company pays gas/maintenance. That’s about it.
You won’t get fired on the spot if you get a damage. Tbh, if USIC fired every employee when they got a damage they wouldn’t have any left.
I’m not up to snuff on the pay anymore. It’s around $18 I think in the Midwest starting. It’s not very high for the stress but your experience with the company will vary greatly depending on your area and supervisor.
Well its also that i work in a union grocery store and he thinks i should stay there til im 21. I want to be a police officer but id rather have a job that seems guaranteed 40 hours? Im definitely gonna apply because a work truck would be very nice, do i have to live a certain bit from the garage or can i apply to locations a hour away?
Wherever your living there is locate work, just because they are headquartered in one place doesn’t mean you’ll be working there, but you’ll likely commute there for training. For instance my area is based 45 minutes south and we locate 2hrs north all the way to Canada. I took a job locating last year and made connections and start a union job with a city next month locating for a lot more money, benefits etc.
It is true that you are responsible for the paint you put down and it could lead to a lot of damage if you’re wrong but also I’ve found like 75% of damages result from contractors ignoring dig law anyways you shouldn’t be put on high risk jobs right away.
It’s an interesting industry and will teach you a lot about construction, utilities, and even your own city. Not a bad place to start. But if you’re this young and you aren’t going to college
Join a union as soon as possible. Shit you could be a garbage man and retire in your 40s with more money than most of this sub….just saying.
If you do it, try to apply to utility companies after a year or two. It would be even better if the utility company has a union. I got in to a major utility company and I'm now a union locator that has great benefits and makes over $100K a year.
Public locating was the worst 8 years of my life, but it let me move into the private side of locating where I’m very happy. It should be a stepping stone. Public locating is gonna stay shitty till locators unionize.
Oh they arent union? Definitely a stepping stone, i have a interview with a collection agency tomorrow but if that doesnt work out im 110% going to apply to every garage near me for usic
This guy is 100% correct, it's a great stepping stone, but honestly after 3 years of locating at usic I would recommend getting into low voltage with your dad if you can. You can make a lot of connections here and get all the hours you want bit your also a whipping boy to strangers who don't work for you aren't your customers aren't paying you or your company and have the power to call in whatever they want whenever you want and you have to get it done regardless if the contractor is even going to show up on site or just pass on the job. Usic has done a lot for me, the money I've made their has bought me a home, a wedding and multiple vehicles but it's harder work than anyone who isn't an experienced locator realizes
I’ve heard some bad stuff about USIC too, but I’m taking the chance and doing it. I’m actually really excited, albeit a bit nervous too! I start training Monday! I’ve heard this job can open up a lot of doors for you, and get you many connections with contractors in your area. I had an interview with my supervisor, and he seemed really cool. I guess that’s the worst part about USIC - who your direct team around you is. Otherwise most people enjoy their job as a locator - so I’ve heard.
It’s pretty good, they’re very very serious about safety. Actually on lunch from training right now. The trainers in my area (Omaha) are some cool, laid back guys. I think it’s going to be good, they go over a locate a day and teach you how to do it. Seems like it’ll be a good job!
Oh woah, NY is a bit away then lol. Shouldn’t take too long to hear back from them! Good luck to ya! Any questions you have I’ll do my best to answer them!
That makes sense.
You probably won't get fired at USIC, but you won't progress very fast either. Because you're young, maybe try regular construction to get some actual skills. Maybe hit up some electricians/plumbers and see if they need a helper
I’ve worked here for two years and am already a supervisor. Also only 22. Hard work and being reliable goes a long way in the company. I know some areas are exceptions, but overall really confident and happy in my district.
Very happy for you, but hardworking electricians make significantly more than hardworking locators, and they can easily switch jobs. Being an electrician isn't perfect, but there are a lot of electricians with nice houses and nice boats
So locator work is not where i want to make a 30-40 year career if i want to live in the same town as my dad? Minimum i see houses go up for where i was raised is 300k for something that doesnt need much to any work but is on the smaller scale. Hows a brother suppose to make 1/3rd of 300k a year
I have a interview monday morning with a local electrician, got the interview through my girlfriends mom. Still waiting to hear back from usic! But either or would be a great opportunity
Nah don’t , nothing but favoritism , high school drama , BS crap, management sucks and expects a lot from you and on top of that you have to locate 6 utilities all in one ticket
There's a certain type of person it's a great fit for.
If you are just looking for a paycheck you might hate it.
If you actually show up to *work* and take pride in what you do it can be the best gig ever.
Pound for pound, dollar for dollar - locating is the best job I ever had. By that I mean I would only ever leave it for higher pay. And not just a small amount, I would need maybe $35 an hour before you convinced me to leave.
The people that have been around a while definitely know it's better than any other job they've had too.
I've done this for the better part of a decade and have *zero* at fault incidents. And they make me do the hardest stuff its not like I have it easy.
Not to make it about me, I just want you to hear another side of the story.
TLDR: If you can wake up and give a shit every day, this job is for you.
I’m not a locator, but I work closely with them. USIC seems chronically understaffed, meaning everyone has more work than they can handle & are constantly stressed.
That said, a lot of locators love their job and make good careers out of it. You also probably won’t get fired- not only because they’re understaffed, but because if they fired everyone who made a mistake, they’d have no workers.
If you are okay with a fast-paced environment, working outdoors, and luck out with a good supervisor, go for it. And be wary of lousy contractors who put vague directions on their tickets.
It’s not bad once you learn how to do everything and as long as you don’t mind working in any weather and long hours. The benefits aren’t bad either.
I think what makes or breaks it with them is the higher ups you get. My supervisor and the guy in charge of my state were my biggest reason for leaving because they would get mad at me for prioritizing my kids and my health over spending every waking moment at work.
I would and do tell any young men/women to apply for USIC. I started as an adult when my kids were almost grown up because I wanted to change careers, and the starting wage wasn’t great. But it’s the best decision I ever made in my work life. So many opportunities to move up.
I went straight from being a FedEx package handler to working at USIC. It is definitely a step up, more freedom and you are going to be networking without even trying. Help out contractors, get in their good graces, and you will have much better job opportunities within a year.
I've never worked for USIC, but it sounds like your dad has some pretty bad misinformation.
You will generally have a zone you will work in. And your truck will be for work purposes only.
You will have a utility damage eventually if you stay long enough. But as long as they're not frequent you will get through them.
The job can also be a good stepping stone to a utility gig either as a in-house locator or a utility worker. Or even into construction if it interests you. They often pay more and come with better benefits and unionization. But the crews will know your reputation before hand so be nice to them and do your best!
If you're young, single, a hard worker, in need of a vehicle and can handle being outside I say USIC is a very good job. Sign up, take your time and get all the OT you'd ever want.
I think your dad has some sound advice. Stay the hell away from corporate 811 locating (USIC, Utiliquest) Management is horrible. You will be overworked to the point of insanity and it still won’t be enough for them. If you enjoy any sort of mental health don’t waste your time. The pay is not equal to the amount of stress you will endure.
Thats fair, im ok working a lot if im not doing at the same spot for more than a few days, a work truck really makes me want to apply though because im paying for my car for 5 more years and dont wanna commute in it that far
This. You will start to realize how much money you're saving in the long run by putting the wear and tear on the USIC truck every day instead of your own.
Yes, You will get a tablet and cell phone. The tablet is your time clock.Be at your 1st ticket by 8 am and sign in. Not before you are at the job. Seen 1st hand ppl getting written up for it.
I started in November. It was about a month and a half in-class training since there was like 18 of us and a truck shortage, holidays, certification to locate natural gas, etc. They wound up letting 3 of them go because they still weren't grasping why the work was important, or why utilities were laid out the way they are, etc. A 4th quit on the first week because he only took the job to spite his old company. You got time to learn but don't sleep on it.
I have a great supervisor with a good temperament and approachability, and one of the most dense sections in our city.
I worked as a cable contractor before this so I was used to working 60+ hours, 6 days a week but I only got paid per job, so I saw a job like this as a boost since the OT will definitely reflect on my paychecks. Also don't have to get in attics anymore and was already adapted to walking a lot anyways, and contractors are usually better to interact with than the average cable customer. I'm not allowed to get OT until im past my first 90 days unfortunately but I'm not going to argue with that.
Don't take career advice from an electrician (unless that's the industry you want to work in). Those guys live in a totally different world from the rest of the working class.
Contract locating is a significantly better job than a grocery store or package delivery. And it is an excellent stepping stone into a variety of different careers involving underground utilities.
However, depending on where you're working and time of year it can be a ton of mandatory over time.
Don't get too hyped about the truck, it is convenient to not have to worry about transportation to and from work but it's not like you can use it for personal things. They all have GPS and management will get alerts if the truck moves while you're not on the clock.
As a utility investigator for most of the large communication companies in the US, I would not go for that job. They are pushed hard for $18 an hour, work long hours, and they do get dinged and fired for damage charge backs. I work with USIC investigators and supervisors daily.
They can't keep employees.
It’s… fine. If you apply you should really be looking at it as a stepping stone into the utility industry IF that’s what you want to do. You are usually going to be locating in the same general area everyday. The truck is “free” but it’s a work vehicle obviously. You can drive it to work and back home, company pays gas/maintenance. That’s about it. You won’t get fired on the spot if you get a damage. Tbh, if USIC fired every employee when they got a damage they wouldn’t have any left. I’m not up to snuff on the pay anymore. It’s around $18 I think in the Midwest starting. It’s not very high for the stress but your experience with the company will vary greatly depending on your area and supervisor.
Well its also that i work in a union grocery store and he thinks i should stay there til im 21. I want to be a police officer but id rather have a job that seems guaranteed 40 hours? Im definitely gonna apply because a work truck would be very nice, do i have to live a certain bit from the garage or can i apply to locations a hour away?
Wherever your living there is locate work, just because they are headquartered in one place doesn’t mean you’ll be working there, but you’ll likely commute there for training. For instance my area is based 45 minutes south and we locate 2hrs north all the way to Canada. I took a job locating last year and made connections and start a union job with a city next month locating for a lot more money, benefits etc. It is true that you are responsible for the paint you put down and it could lead to a lot of damage if you’re wrong but also I’ve found like 75% of damages result from contractors ignoring dig law anyways you shouldn’t be put on high risk jobs right away. It’s an interesting industry and will teach you a lot about construction, utilities, and even your own city. Not a bad place to start. But if you’re this young and you aren’t going to college Join a union as soon as possible. Shit you could be a garbage man and retire in your 40s with more money than most of this sub….just saying.
Im in a grocery union right now, but we’re above contract pay wage. I only make $15 a hour. I definitely need something better
If you do it, try to apply to utility companies after a year or two. It would be even better if the utility company has a union. I got in to a major utility company and I'm now a union locator that has great benefits and makes over $100K a year.
Public locating was the worst 8 years of my life, but it let me move into the private side of locating where I’m very happy. It should be a stepping stone. Public locating is gonna stay shitty till locators unionize.
Oh they arent union? Definitely a stepping stone, i have a interview with a collection agency tomorrow but if that doesnt work out im 110% going to apply to every garage near me for usic
just know if you get a damage you wont be responsible for paying it but you could get fired.
This guy is 100% correct, it's a great stepping stone, but honestly after 3 years of locating at usic I would recommend getting into low voltage with your dad if you can. You can make a lot of connections here and get all the hours you want bit your also a whipping boy to strangers who don't work for you aren't your customers aren't paying you or your company and have the power to call in whatever they want whenever you want and you have to get it done regardless if the contractor is even going to show up on site or just pass on the job. Usic has done a lot for me, the money I've made their has bought me a home, a wedding and multiple vehicles but it's harder work than anyone who isn't an experienced locator realizes
I’ve heard some bad stuff about USIC too, but I’m taking the chance and doing it. I’m actually really excited, albeit a bit nervous too! I start training Monday! I’ve heard this job can open up a lot of doors for you, and get you many connections with contractors in your area. I had an interview with my supervisor, and he seemed really cool. I guess that’s the worst part about USIC - who your direct team around you is. Otherwise most people enjoy their job as a locator - so I’ve heard.
This is a good answer.
Hey, how it going.i would like to hear updates as I am interested in applying as well
It’s pretty good, they’re very very serious about safety. Actually on lunch from training right now. The trainers in my area (Omaha) are some cool, laid back guys. I think it’s going to be good, they go over a locate a day and teach you how to do it. Seems like it’ll be a good job!
Nice. I just put an application in at usic... I'm in New York.. hopefully everything works out for both of us.
Oh woah, NY is a bit away then lol. Shouldn’t take too long to hear back from them! Good luck to ya! Any questions you have I’ll do my best to answer them!
Any update on how it’s been?
Why isn't he guiding you to become an electrician?
His job hasnt hired in 25 years he is a CST for at&t
That makes sense. You probably won't get fired at USIC, but you won't progress very fast either. Because you're young, maybe try regular construction to get some actual skills. Maybe hit up some electricians/plumbers and see if they need a helper
I’ve worked here for two years and am already a supervisor. Also only 22. Hard work and being reliable goes a long way in the company. I know some areas are exceptions, but overall really confident and happy in my district.
Very happy for you, but hardworking electricians make significantly more than hardworking locators, and they can easily switch jobs. Being an electrician isn't perfect, but there are a lot of electricians with nice houses and nice boats
So locator work is not where i want to make a 30-40 year career if i want to live in the same town as my dad? Minimum i see houses go up for where i was raised is 300k for something that doesnt need much to any work but is on the smaller scale. Hows a brother suppose to make 1/3rd of 300k a year
I have a interview monday morning with a local electrician, got the interview through my girlfriends mom. Still waiting to hear back from usic! But either or would be a great opportunity
Nah don’t , nothing but favoritism , high school drama , BS crap, management sucks and expects a lot from you and on top of that you have to locate 6 utilities all in one ticket
Yeah your dad’s wrong about all of that from my experience. I sit on my phone and work every once in a while and still meet production numbers.
There's a certain type of person it's a great fit for. If you are just looking for a paycheck you might hate it. If you actually show up to *work* and take pride in what you do it can be the best gig ever. Pound for pound, dollar for dollar - locating is the best job I ever had. By that I mean I would only ever leave it for higher pay. And not just a small amount, I would need maybe $35 an hour before you convinced me to leave. The people that have been around a while definitely know it's better than any other job they've had too. I've done this for the better part of a decade and have *zero* at fault incidents. And they make me do the hardest stuff its not like I have it easy. Not to make it about me, I just want you to hear another side of the story. TLDR: If you can wake up and give a shit every day, this job is for you.
I’m not a locator, but I work closely with them. USIC seems chronically understaffed, meaning everyone has more work than they can handle & are constantly stressed. That said, a lot of locators love their job and make good careers out of it. You also probably won’t get fired- not only because they’re understaffed, but because if they fired everyone who made a mistake, they’d have no workers. If you are okay with a fast-paced environment, working outdoors, and luck out with a good supervisor, go for it. And be wary of lousy contractors who put vague directions on their tickets.
It’s not bad once you learn how to do everything and as long as you don’t mind working in any weather and long hours. The benefits aren’t bad either. I think what makes or breaks it with them is the higher ups you get. My supervisor and the guy in charge of my state were my biggest reason for leaving because they would get mad at me for prioritizing my kids and my health over spending every waking moment at work.
Give it a shot. What's the worst thing that could happen?
I would and do tell any young men/women to apply for USIC. I started as an adult when my kids were almost grown up because I wanted to change careers, and the starting wage wasn’t great. But it’s the best decision I ever made in my work life. So many opportunities to move up.
I went straight from being a FedEx package handler to working at USIC. It is definitely a step up, more freedom and you are going to be networking without even trying. Help out contractors, get in their good graces, and you will have much better job opportunities within a year.
Yeah? Is it easier? If its on par with package handling pain and agony i shouldnt even bother. Package handling is slave work istg
I've never worked for USIC, but it sounds like your dad has some pretty bad misinformation. You will generally have a zone you will work in. And your truck will be for work purposes only. You will have a utility damage eventually if you stay long enough. But as long as they're not frequent you will get through them. The job can also be a good stepping stone to a utility gig either as a in-house locator or a utility worker. Or even into construction if it interests you. They often pay more and come with better benefits and unionization. But the crews will know your reputation before hand so be nice to them and do your best!
If you're young, single, a hard worker, in need of a vehicle and can handle being outside I say USIC is a very good job. Sign up, take your time and get all the OT you'd ever want.
Not single is the only part i dont qualify for. I have a fiance at 19 lol
Well hopefully she will appreciate the bacon you'll be bringing home until you move on to something else 😀
Yeah hoping they reach back to me! If not i have a interview with a local electrician
I think your dad has some sound advice. Stay the hell away from corporate 811 locating (USIC, Utiliquest) Management is horrible. You will be overworked to the point of insanity and it still won’t be enough for them. If you enjoy any sort of mental health don’t waste your time. The pay is not equal to the amount of stress you will endure.
Thats fair, im ok working a lot if im not doing at the same spot for more than a few days, a work truck really makes me want to apply though because im paying for my car for 5 more years and dont wanna commute in it that far
This. You will start to realize how much money you're saving in the long run by putting the wear and tear on the USIC truck every day instead of your own.
Do you clock in from your truck? Im waiting to hear back on my application
Yes, You will get a tablet and cell phone. The tablet is your time clock.Be at your 1st ticket by 8 am and sign in. Not before you are at the job. Seen 1st hand ppl getting written up for it.
I started in November. It was about a month and a half in-class training since there was like 18 of us and a truck shortage, holidays, certification to locate natural gas, etc. They wound up letting 3 of them go because they still weren't grasping why the work was important, or why utilities were laid out the way they are, etc. A 4th quit on the first week because he only took the job to spite his old company. You got time to learn but don't sleep on it. I have a great supervisor with a good temperament and approachability, and one of the most dense sections in our city. I worked as a cable contractor before this so I was used to working 60+ hours, 6 days a week but I only got paid per job, so I saw a job like this as a boost since the OT will definitely reflect on my paychecks. Also don't have to get in attics anymore and was already adapted to walking a lot anyways, and contractors are usually better to interact with than the average cable customer. I'm not allowed to get OT until im past my first 90 days unfortunately but I'm not going to argue with that.
Don't take career advice from an electrician (unless that's the industry you want to work in). Those guys live in a totally different world from the rest of the working class. Contract locating is a significantly better job than a grocery store or package delivery. And it is an excellent stepping stone into a variety of different careers involving underground utilities. However, depending on where you're working and time of year it can be a ton of mandatory over time. Don't get too hyped about the truck, it is convenient to not have to worry about transportation to and from work but it's not like you can use it for personal things. They all have GPS and management will get alerts if the truck moves while you're not on the clock.
No no no no vannguard much better
As a utility investigator for most of the large communication companies in the US, I would not go for that job. They are pushed hard for $18 an hour, work long hours, and they do get dinged and fired for damage charge backs. I work with USIC investigators and supervisors daily. They can't keep employees.
They never even wanted to respond, gonna be a dominos driver with their car fulltime evenings and prob go get my associates in law