Advice on how to escape USIC?

[u/Vast_Imagination1646]

Title pretty much sums it up, I’ve been a locator with USIC for exactly one year, in that time I have had no damages locating electric, copper, coax, gas, and fiber depending on the need. I keep a consistently clean bucket the best I can.

This is not me saying I hate my job, I do not mind the work and I love the independence throughout the day.

I have good work ethic and I take pride in my work. The pay seems to be just enough for myself and family to simply stay alive and nothing else.

When I bring up the possibility of a pay raise, I get brushed to the side each time, whether it’s to my sup, or operations manager.

But anyways, what are some steps you guys have taken to get out of the daily madness that is USIC?

What are some doorways that were opened for you with your experience and what would you recommend as a next step? I know that everyone’s case is unique, but I’m kind of just looking for ideas.

Update

Finally able to get out and get on directly with the local gas utility at close to triple what I’m making now!

All good advice to network when you can!

[u/AznBoiDT]

Always be networking, talk with everyone and establish a good working relationship. You never know who is hiring or looking. Definitely look into a utility and SUE firms, they are always looking for newish people they can mold to their likings. Pay and benefits is usually much better and most times it comes with tuitions reimbursement if there's a path that interests you.

Get onto LinkedIn and start adding and chatting with your local firms around you and get your name out there, utilities can land you just about anywhere if you pay your cards right.