Job ID #31663: Damage Prevention Technician (Utility Locator)

Contribute to the City of Hamilton, one of Canada’s largest cities - home to a diverse and strong economy, an active and inclusive community, a robust cultural and dining scene, hundreds of kilometers of hiking trails and natural beauty just minutes from the downtown core, and so much more. Join our diverse team of talented and ambitious staff who embody our values of sensational service, courageous change, steadfast integrity, collective ownership and being engaged empowered employees. Help us achieve our vision of being the best place to raise a child and age successfully. #BeTheReason

• Job ID #31663: Damage Prevention Technician (Utility Locator)


• Union: CUPE Local 5167


• Job Description ID #: 7706


• Close date: Interested applicants please submit your application online at www.hamilton.ca/city-council/jobs-city by 4:00 p.m. on January 28, 2026. 


• Vacancy type: This posting is for an existing vacancy


• Internal applicants should apply with your work e-mail address. External applicants are considered only after the internal posting process has been completed. Only applicants chosen for an interview will be contacted.

SUMMARY OF DUTIES

Reporting directly to the Supervisor – Utility Locates – Field, the Damage Prevention Technician (Utility Locator) will play a critical role in ensuring the safety and accuracy of locating underground city-owned utilities. Your primary responsibility will be to identify and mark the position of these utilities, which could include water, sewer, gas, electric, telecommunications, and others. This role requires a strong commitment to safety, precision, and compliance with both City and Provincial guidelines.

RESPONSIBILITIES

As a Damage Prevention Technician (Utility Locator) with the City of Hamilton, your key responsibilities encompass a range of critical tasks aimed at ensuring the safety and accuracy of locating underground utilities. You will conduct detailed utility locating services, accurately identifying, and marking the location of all city-owned underground assets, including those operated by other divisions within Public Works. Strict adherence to safety protocols is essential, as is compliance with City and Provincial guidelines to maintain high standards of service. Your role involves actively participating in field operations, focusing on operational efficiency and minimizing disruptions to the public and clients. Additionally, effective communication is paramount, as you will interact with clients, the public, and contractors, addressing concerns and queries related to utility locating.

GENERAL DUTIES (INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO):

Safely locate underground utilities accurately using utility record systems and electronic locating equipment. Determine the depth, alignment, and type of utilities, including water, sewer, gas, electric, telecommunications, and others.

Use various tools and equipment, such as electromagnetic locators, ground-penetrating radar, and utility maps, to accurately identify the location of underground utilities.

Field mark and document the locations of underground utilities on the ground's surface using color-coded flags, paint, or other standardized markings. Ensure that the markings are clear and comply with industry standards to guide construction or excavation activities.

Performs preliminary accident investigation for utility strikes.

Complete locate requests assigned by Supervisor accurately and in a timely manner.

Understand and utilize infrastructure records in planning/completing utility locates. Interprets drawings, blueprints and confirms permits have been issued.

Interprets legislation and by-laws.

Safely operate a company provided vehicle including planning the travel to/from work sites.

Document changes or modifications to the underground infrastructure for future reference.

Work (as assigned) as a member of locate project teams.

Communicate with Supervisor, Clerks and Client contacts - verbal, email, etc.

Trains new staff

Provide after-hours and emergency coverage as required.

Works in accordance with the provisions of applicable Health and Safety legislation and all City of Hamilton corporate and departmental policies and procedures related to Occupational Health and Safety

Perform other duties as assigned directly related to the responsibilities of the position.

QUALIFICATIONS

1. Demonstrated extensive knowledge of the duties listed above, typically acquired through a Minimum Grade 12 Secondary School Graduation Diploma (or equivalent), to be certified as a Damage Prevention Technician.


2. Must have completed a Damage Prevention Technician Certification Program within the first 6 months of employment.


3. Preference will be given to candidates who have completed a Damage Prevention Technician Certification Program.


4. Must possess experience with underground infrastructure, locating equipment, and locating various assets, including water, wastewater, drainage, traffic signals, fiber optic, and electric.


5. Ability to read and interpret GIS Maps, drawings, and plan and profile "as-built" drawings.


6. Must have demonstrated knowledge of City of Hamilton Bylaws, City of Hamilton and Provincial Health and Safety policies, Ontario Underground Infrastructure Notification System Act and associated regulations.


7. Demonstrated experience working with a variety of Acts and Regulations.


8. Strong organizational skills to manage tasks effectively.


9. Excellent verbal and written communication skills for internal and external stakeholders.


10. Ability to convey technical information in a clear and understandable manner.


11. Computer literacy and proficiency in Microsoft products (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint).


12. Experience with geospatial applications such as Esri.


13. A working knowledge of utility systems installations, road construction and building practices.


14. Ability to carry up to 30 pounds.


15. Able to work on job sites outside for long periods.


16. Proficiency in utilizing computer maintenance management systems.


17. Must possess a valid Class "G" Driver’s licence.

NOTE: As a condition of employment, the successful applicant(s) will be required to obtain a satisfactory Criminal Record & Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC), at their own expense, prior to beginning work in this position.

THIS POSITION REQUIRES A VALID CLASS “G” DRIVER’S LICENCE AND PROOF THEREOF IS REQUIRED AFTER HIRE.

Disclaimer:

Be advised that Human Resources frequently audits resumes of internal/external applicants to ensure/validate information provided is consistent and trustworthy. Falsification of information provided at any time throughout the recruitment process may be grounds for disqualification, and for internal applicants, subject to discipline up to and including termination.

Terms:

The City is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection processes. Consistent with our Values and Corporate Culture Pillars, the City of Hamilton is committed to providing equitable treatment to all with respect to barrier-free employment and accommodation without discrimination. The City will provide accommodation for applicants in all aspects of the hiring process, up to the point of undue hardship.  If you have an accommodation need, please contact Human Resources as soon as possible to make appropriate arrangements.