What Skills Does an Underground Construction Worker Need?

Underground construction workers install, repair and map out underground utilities systems such as gas, water, sewage, communications and power lines. 

This work may involve trenching using equipment at the surface, or take place underground using trenchless methods that allow utilities to be installed under existing obstacles. 

What are some of the skills and interests an underground construction worker should have to set them up for success? 

• Being Active: Underground construction involves some physical activity and the use of tools like underground cable and tracer wire. 
• Being Outside: Underground construction workers primarily work outside or in outdoor conditions. 
• Computers & Technology: Underground construction workers work with technology frequently in their job. 
• Detail-Oriented: Precision is important in underground construction work.  
• Math & Numbers: Underground construction workers use calculations to measure out underground systems. 
• Teamwork: Underground construction workers often work and collaborate with others on a team. 
• Troubleshooting: Underground construction workers often need to troubleshoot to identify problems and find solutions. 

To learn more about careers as an underground construction workers, check out our underground construction career page.