Service Locator

Role Overview

We are looking for a Service Locator in Plymouth to inspect and survey underground utilities within the designated work area. The role involves identifying buried services using specialist geophysical methods, then clearly marking them on the ground with the correct colour coding to show the service type and depth. You will also manage permit documentation on site and help ensure everyone follows the controls and procedures set out in the permit system.

Key Duties

• Approve permits to break surface where required.
• Apply and enforce the project’s permit controls for break ground activities.
• Review task-specific method statements before work begins.
• Identify and mark all services inside the work boundaries while following colour standards.
• Brief work teams on the utilities within their area and explain safe working methods around affected services.
• Carry out the 8-point checklist during gang briefings.
• Set up and maintain exclusion zones around impacted services.
• Collect the necessary approvals from the works team and the Project Engineer for permit sign-off.
• Report any differences or issues in the records to the BOSC.
• Investigate unrecorded services when instructed by the BOSC.
• Tell the BOSC when services have been removed from the work area so the drawings can be updated.
• Attach the latest SMD CAD drawing to the permit-to-dig documentation.
• Make sure no team works under an expired break-ground permit or in an area without a valid permit.
• Keep service markings visible and accurate for the full permit period, including repeat scans as excavation progresses.
• Carry out any other tasks within your skills and training that the Company may reasonably assign from time to time.

Requirements

The ideal candidate should be adaptable, able to manage several priorities, and ready to play an important role in the team. A CSCS Card is mandatory and must be obtained before starting. You should have strong hands-on knowledge of electromagnetic location and ground penetrating radar, along with a good understanding of utility detection standards and practices such as PAS 128 and TSA. Practical experience with surveying equipment including GPR, CAT, and Genny is required. Clear communication, teamwork, and the ability to liaise professionally with clients on site are also essential. Knowledge of HSG-47 and GS-6 is expected.

Desirable Experience

Experience working in a nuclear environment would be an advantage. A QCF Level 3 or Level 5 qualification in utility mapping is preferred. The role is best suited to applicants with at least 2 to 3 years of utility surveying experience.

Work Setting

This position is based in a live MOD facility in Plymouth, where you will be working on active site conditions and must remain compliant with all permit and safety requirements.