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Director Subsurface Utility Engineer Jobs in Illinois

T2ue helps clients manage the complexity of existing utilities with our professional and comprehensive Subsurface Utility Engineering, Utility Coordination, and Surveying services. Our mission is to ...

HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support ... Direct client interface responsibilities within area of expertise * Professional growth with broad ...

HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support ... Direct client interface responsibilities within area of expertise * Professional growth with broad ...

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Director Subsurface Utility Engineer information

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encounter challenges related to coordinating across multidisciplinary teams, managing project risk due to unknown or outdated utility data, and ensuring compliance with varying local and federal regulations.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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Director Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in Illinois? For Director Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Director Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Director Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Director Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Director Subsurface Utility Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Director Subsurface Utility Engineer job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Entry Level Utility Engineer

Prairie Engineers

Columbia, IL โ€ข On-site

$62K - $74K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

If you're a Jr. Engineer who likes problem-solving, technology, and seeing immediate impact on projects, come uncover more of your career and contribute to Subsurface Utility Engineering at Prairie Engineers.

This entry level position will focus heavily on subsurface utility engineering with occasional travel throughout the U.S. While in the office, you 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. We're a team looking to make a lasting impact and want people who embrace challenges, drive change, and help shape our collective future. Prairie Engineers is a growing and progressive business with opportunities for career advancement, a diverse range of clients, and varied projects across the nation. At Prairie, we're looking to be in the forefront of subsurface detection technology in one of the fastest-growing specialties in infrastructure. Our goal resonates with you? Great, let's connect!

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: $62,400 - $74,880 per year, 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 benefits package available including 401(k), medical insurance starting on day one, generous paid time off, professional development and to find out why employees chose to join our team. Prairie Engineers is an equal opportunity employer. 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 apply with 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.