Systems Locator

This is your opportunity to work for an Employer of Choice and play an integral role in our employee workplace culture. Cedar Falls Utilities is currently recruiting for a full-time Systems Locator to join our Gas & Water Construction department. This position works independently in the field locating underground communications, gas, water, and electric utility services. 

CFU takes pride in finding people that align with our core values of Customer Focus, Ethical & Responsible Behavior, Innovation, and Employee Teamwork & Personal Growth and actively want to help maintain our reputation of being a trusted provider of utility services. The Systems Locator works under general supervision of the Gas & Water Construction Supervisor.  

Interested applicants should submit completed applications by Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at 11:59PM.

Once your application has been completed, you will receive an email acknowledging the submission has been successfully completed. After the posting comes down, the hiring team will review all applications, and you will be notified either way if you are selected for further steps in the hiring process. Please ensure all contact information is kept up to date.

Compensation & Benefits

• CFU offers on-the-job training and will enroll employees into a 3-step apprenticeship program, consisting of classroom and field training. 
• Non-commission, straight hourly based pay structure.
• Starting wage is based upon individual qualifications. Full position rate is $37.16/hour once a candidate can successfully perform the essential job functions.
• Work schedule is Monday - Friday, 7:30am - 3:30pm, with two 20 minute breaks. This position is subject to emergency callouts.

• CFU has expanded our employee residency requirements. Employees are required to respond to emergencies and must reside within a 20 mile radius of Cedar Falls Utilities main office. Click here for new residency map.

• Full-time benefits package including IPERS retirement benefits, health, dental, vision and life insurance. Click here for more information on CFU's benefits.
  • Health, Dental, Vision (Single or Family) – Eligible 1st of the Month Following 30 Days of Hire Date
  • Paid Vacation, Holidays, Sick Days, Bereavement Leave, and Flexible Days
  • IPERS and 457 Retirement
  • EAP Services Free to CFU Employees and Immediate Family Members
  • Educational Assistance and Professional Development
  • Employee Wellness Program and Onsite Fitness Center
  • Employee Recognition Program – Service Anniversaries
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Employer 

• Locates and marks underground water, gas, electric, and communications lines. Attends One Call requests for joint meets.
  
• Obtains accurate measurements and field drawings of utility installations and uses data and mapping system in the upkeep of water, gas, electric, and communication system records and mapping. 
  
• Attends pre-construction meetings as assigned. Checks/reports on construction activity that affects utility installations.
  
• Subject to emergency service work/calls and assisting construction crews. Performs other work as assigned which may include work in the Gas & Water meter shop, tree trimming, and other general labor work.
  

• Responsible for maintaining a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating in a manner that promotes positive relations with customers, coworkers, and management.

Education:

• Graduation from an accredited high school or vocational school.

Experience:

• Experience in the operation of underground locating equipment and in locating underground facilities.

Certifications/Licenses: 

• Must possess a valid Iowa Drivers License and ability to become Gas Operator Qualified.

Residency: 

• This position requires an employee to reside within 20 miles of the Main Office Building at 1 Utility Parkway, Cedar Falls.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of: Equipment used in detection, identification, and location of underground utilities. Thorough knowledge of occupational hazards and safety precautions used in underground locating. Knowledge of underground utility systems.
• Ability to: Achieve a thorough knowledge of communication, electric, gas, and water underground systems. Acquire the needed computer skills to facilitate locating needs. Keep records and make reports. Establish and maintain cooperative work relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Physical Tasks and Environmental Conditions: 

• The physical demands described here are characteristic of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The employee must occasionally lift at least 50 pounds, be alert to ergonomic hazards, and possess the capability to climb ladders and/or stairs. The employee must also be capable of working in conditions with rough terrain and awkward/difficult positions. This job requires a moderate activity level. 

This position requires a hearing exam and pre-employment drug test and physical.