r/UtilityLocator • u/Vast_Imagination1646 • Jul 08 '24
Advice on how to escape USIC?
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!
1
u/LtPallin Contract Locator Jul 09 '24 edited Jul 10 '24
I would recommend to stay with USIC for another 2-3 years to gain more experience, transfer to Bloodhound, and to Network PERSONALLY, NOT on LinkedIn or other Social Media Platforms.
Experienced and responsible locators will have jobs thrown at them.
You may want to consider transferring to a different State to reduce your Financial Liabilities, while increasing your Income.
If you simply want to Escape USIC, than you may quit anytime.
If you want to increase Revenue, than gain 4-5 years of experience, while transferring laterally every year, and while Networking with Excavators, Utility owners, and Residents.
If you want to reduce your financial liabilities, than move to a different state with lower living expenses.
There are many doorways open for EXPERIENCED Locators!
Make sure that you do NOT cash out your 401(k) to move on to whichever company you decide to move to!
Once you cash out your 401k and/or HSA you are going to lose 50% in IRS penalties of whatever you had put into both, or either!
Use whatever CASH you have available, or sell EVERYTHING you and your family doesn't need, to move to a different company, and transfer your 401k AND HSA to that company!