What Do Utility Contractors Do? Responsibilities Explained

What Do Utility Contractors Do? Responsibilities Explained

I get asked all the time: What does a utility contractor do? Is this a profession, a scope, or a trade that you might want to explore? Should you consider starting a business in this field? In this blog, I’ll share my insights about utility contractors, their scope of work, and what makes this industry so fascinating and rewarding. Having gained extensive experience in this field, I’ll also discuss the types of utility construction work available.

How Utility Contractors Can Achieve Success:

First of all, I’ve seen countless utility contractors succeed immensely. At LeanTakt and Elevate, we collaborate with many civil and utility contractors. They are thriving with systems like Takt, Last Planner, and Scrum, leveraging these lean principles to great effect. I recently worked with a contractor who shared how implementing these systems ensured all their projects were on schedule and profitable. It’s not as hard as it might seem, provided you have the discipline to follow proven methods.

The Potential of Underground Utility Contracting:

Having grown up watching companies like Conco Construction evolve into underground utility experts, I can confidently say that this business can be incredibly lucrative and fulfilling. Companies in this field are known for precision, consistency, and creating impactful projects. The work may involve technical challenges, but it’s highly manageable and rewarding.

Here’s an interesting observation: many successful utility contractors I know own impressive trucks and boats, symbolizing the financial success this industry can offer. While it’s not about flaunting wealth, it highlights how profitable this line of work can be when done well.

Key Responsibilities of a Utility Contractor:

So, what does a utility contractor actually do? Let’s break it down:

1. Installation of Utility Infrastructure:
   Utility contractors install critical systems like water, sewer, stormwater, gas, electrical, and telecommunications infrastructure. It’s a highly specialized field requiring expertise and precision.
2. Maintenance and Repair:
   Routine maintenance and emergency repairs, such as fixing leaks in water or gas lines, are a big part of the job. This requires deep technical knowledge and a keen eye for safety.
3. Excavation and Trenching:
   If you’re passionate about heavy equipment and earthwork, this part of the job will excite you. Excavation and trenching are fundamental to laying utility lines.
4. Coordination with Other Contractors:
   While coordination is minimal compared to other trades, utility contractors often need to navigate traffic, pedestrians, and spatial constraints on active job sites.
5. Public and Private Utilities:
   Most utility work involves adhering to strict regulations and inspections, especially for public projects. However, private utility work tends to be more profitable, so balancing both is key.
6. Testing and Quality Control:
   Ensuring systems are installed correctly involves rigorous testing, like pressure checks for water lines or TV inspections for gravity lines. Quality control and precise survey layout are vital for success.

Types of Utility Contractors:

Utility contracting is a diverse field with various specializations, such as plumbing, electrical, gas, telecommunications, and excavation. Some companies focus on onsite or offsite work, while others do both. Regardless of specialization, the industry offers ample opportunities to excel and grow.

Starting a Utility Contracting Business:

If you’re considering entering this trade, whether as an employee or a business owner, here’s what you’ll need:

• Technical knowledge.
• Safety awareness.
• Heavy equipment operation skills.
• Problem-solving abilities for unforeseen challenges.

This work is high-risk but also high-reward. It’s essential to master repeatable systems and processes to create a successful and efficient operation.

Final Thoughts:

Utility contracting is a remarkable field that combines technical expertise, financial rewards, and the satisfaction of contributing to essential infrastructure. If you’re interested in this line of work, dive in, gain experience, and work your way up. Whether you’re backing your new boat down the ramp or enjoying the pride of a job well done, this industry has so much to offer.

I hope this blog inspired you to explore the world of utility contracting!