ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Director Subsurface Utility Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Prairie Engineers

Subsurface Utility Engineer

Columbia, IL · On-site

$30 - $36/hr

S. while, in office, will analyze subsurface data and turn it into actionable engineering deliverables - technical reports, conflict analyses, and utility mapping plans. Ideally, you will be located ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDirector Subsurface Utility Engineer Jobs

Director Subsurface Utility Engineer information

See salary details

$73K

$194.7K

$254K

How much do director subsurface utility engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for director subsurface utility engineer in the United States is $194,709.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $141,500.00 and $253,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by a Director Subsurface Utility Engineer, and how can they be addressed?

Directors in Subsurface Utility Engineering often encounter challenges related to coordinating across multidisciplinary teams, managing project risk due to unknown or outdated utility data, and ensuring compliance with varying local and federal regulations. To address these issues, strong communication and leadership skills are essential for aligning stakeholders and ensuring accurate data collection. Implementing advanced geospatial technologies and maintaining strong relationships with utility owners can also help mitigate risks and streamline project delivery.

What is the difference between Director Subsurface Utility Engineer vs Subsurface Utility Engineer?

AspectDirector Subsurface Utility EngineerSubsurface Utility Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in engineering or related field, with extensive experienceRequires a degree in engineering, surveying, or related field, often with certifications
Work EnvironmentLeads teams, manages projects, and oversees utility coordination in large infrastructure projectsPerforms utility location, data collection, and analysis on-site or in office settings
Industry UsageUsed in large-scale infrastructure, transportation, and utility projectsCommonly involved in utility detection, mapping, and coordination tasks

The main difference is that the Director Subsurface Utility Engineer holds a leadership role overseeing projects and teams, while the Subsurface Utility Engineer focuses on technical utility detection and data collection. The director manages broader project strategies, whereas the utility engineer executes specific field and analysis tasks.

What is a Director Subsurface Utility Engineer?

A Director Subsurface Utility Engineer is a senior professional responsible for overseeing the detection, mapping, and management of underground utilities such as water, gas, electricity, and telecommunication lines. They lead teams that use specialized technologies to locate and document subsurface assets, ensuring construction and infrastructure projects avoid damaging these utilities. In addition to technical expertise, they typically manage budgets, client relationships, and regulatory compliance. This role requires a combination of engineering knowledge, leadership skills, and experience with utility coordination and safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director Subsurface Utility Engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Director Subsurface Utility Engineer, you need a deep understanding of civil engineering, utility mapping, and project management, typically supported by a PE license and a degree in civil or related engineering. Familiarity with utility locating technologies, CAD/GIS software, and industry standards such as ASCE 38-22 is essential. Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and effective communication skills set top candidates apart in managing teams and client relationships. These competencies ensure accurate utility detection, risk mitigation, and the successful delivery of complex infrastructure projects.
More about Director Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Director Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Director Subsurface Utility Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Director Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Director Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Director Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Director Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs are:
Director Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Subsurface Utility Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% Full Time, 35% Part Time, and 55% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $194,709 per year, or $93.6 per hour.

Subsurface Utility Engineer

Prairie Engineers

Springfield, IL • On-site

$30 - $36/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Launch your civil engineering career with Prairie Engineers at the forefront of subsurface detection technology and join one of the fastest-growing specialties in infrastructure.

We're a team looking to make a lasting impact and want people who embrace challenges, drive change, and help shape our collective future. If that's you, let's connect! Prairie Engineers is a growing and progressive business with opportunities for career advancement, a diverse range of clients, and varied projects across the nation. This position includes occasional travel throughout the U.S. while, in office, will analyze subsurface data and turn it into actionable engineering deliverables - technical reports, conflict analyses, and utility mapping plans. Ideally, you will be located within one hour of the greater St. Louis MO region.

If you're a Jr. Engineer who likes problem-solving, technology, and seeing immediate impact on projects, becoming a part of our SUE team is a great place to start your career.

What you Need:
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from an ABETaccredited program.
  • Licensure: Passed FE exam or will within the first 6 months of employment.
  • Experience: 02 years of experience in civil engineering, focused on subsurface utility engineering (SUE) or utility design. More experience definitely a plus.
  • Software: Microsoft Office Suite, CAD and/or GIS tools (ArcGIS, QGIS, AutoCAD, Microstation), ability to quickly learn and understand new software.
  • Travel: Able to travel and work nights/weekends as project schedules require.
  • Safety: Valid driver's license with insurable driving record; able to pass background check, preemployment and random drug screens; able to walk equivalent of several miles daily and lift up to 80 lbs. consistently.
    • What you will Do:
  • Contribute to the collection, interpretation, and analysis of subsurface utility data using advanced geophysical and survey technology.
  • Develop detailed utility maps and engineering drawings using AutoCAD, Microstation, and GIS systems.
  • Ensure the accuracy and integrity of deliverables through thorough quality review.
  • Support the development of SUE work plans and technical reports for complex civil infrastructure projects.
  • Solve underground conflicts and coordinate solutions in partnership with project teams, clients, and utility owners.
  • Uphold a strong culture of safety in both field and office environments.
    • How you Align:
  • People Focused: Professional, respectful, and teamoriented, with a strong work ethic and the ability to collaborate internally and externally.
  • Can Do Attitude: Positively engages with challenges, facilitates problemsolving, and takes initiative to deliver solutions.
  • Responsive: Communicates openly, proactively, and promptly, with excellent verbal and written communication skills.

    • Salary range $30.00-$36.00 per hour determined by education, experience, licensure, and knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant, as well as internal and external benchmarking.

    Check out the Careers page at prairieengineers.com for details on the generous benefits package available, including 401(k), medical insurance on day one, professional development and to find out why employees chose to join our team. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, genetic information (including family medical history), or any other legally protected status.

    Potential candidates for this position should submit cover letter and resume. We are interested in every qualified candidate who is authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. However, we are not able to sponsor current or future visas for this position.

Apply