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Director Subsurface Utility Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Quanta Services

Structural Associate Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$24 - $34/hr

An Associate Designer at HBK Engineering is a position responsible for designing engineering systems for overhead and subsurface utility projects. This role involves owning all phases of the design ...

Quanta Services

Design Engineer - Civil

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

HBK Engineering, LLC is a fully licensed, professional engineering design firm headquartered in ... HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support ...

Quanta Services

Electrical Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

HBK Engineering, LLC is a fully licensed, professional engineering design firm headquartered in ... HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support ...

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All JobsSubsurface Utility Engineer JobsDirector Subsurface Utility Engineer JobsDirector Subsurface Utility Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Director Subsurface Utility Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$75.2K

$200.6K

$261.7K

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

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for director subsurface utility engineer in Chicago, IL is $200,579.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $145,800.00 and $260,600.00 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encounter challenges related to coordinating across multidisciplinary teams, managing project risk due to unknown or outdated utility data, and ensuring compliance with varying local and federal regulations.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?

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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Director Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Director Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Director Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Director Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Director Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Director Subsurface Utility Engineer job openings:
Director Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs near you

Structural Engineering Specialist

HBK Engineering, LLC

Chicago, IL • On-site

$80K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

About Us
HBK Engineering, LLC is a fully licensed, professional engineering design firm headquartered in Chicago, IL with a staff approaching 700 individuals. HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support services and permitting facilitation. Since our founding in 1998, we have earned a reputation for delivering outstanding, accurate services in extremely time-sensitive, multilayered environments. That "industry-recognized" performance has propelled our expansion and the ability to provide engineering services in all 50 states. With 25 offices nationwide, including concentrations in the Midwest and on the Coasts, HBK brings together a dedicated team whose main focus is the design and protection of utilities and utility networks. We have successfully performed engineering work for a complete spectrum of utility infrastructure projects providing solutions and construction support from Coast to Coast in areas ranging from complex urban city centers, to rural greenfields, to limited access rights-of-way. In July 2020, HBK Engineering was acquired by Quanta Services. Quanta Services provides infrastructure services for electric power, pipeline, and communications industries and employees over 50,000 people. Quanta's focus on the utility industry and HBK's focus on constructability in our designs has made our integration into the Quanta family of companies seamless.
About this Role
HBK Engineering is seeking an experienced Structural Engineering Specialist to work in our Chicago or Oak Brook office. This is a position that combines advanced technical expertise with team leadership responsibilities. This role involves applying broad knowledge of engineering principles and practices while independently evaluating, selecting, and adapting standard techniques and procedures to address unique and complex electrical, structural, civil, and construction-related challenges. The position includes acting as a team lead in coordinating detailed design phases for all aspects of utility engineering work, with direct client interface responsibilities and quality control oversight. Work location: IL
What You'll Do
  • Design engineering systems in compliance with specifications, codes, and client requirements for overhead and subsurface utility projects
  • Apply broad knowledge of engineering principles and practices to ensure design compliance with relevant specifications, codes, and client requirements
  • Independently evaluate, select, and adapt standard techniques, procedures, and criteria to address unique and complex challenges
  • Act as team lead in coordinating detailed design phases for all aspects of utility engineering work
  • Train entry-level staff in their professional development
  • Perform quality control reviews of engineering designs under the oversight of professional engineering staff
  • Interface with clients to discuss engineering topics within their area of expertise and provide support to the engineering team
  • Prepare detailed engineering and construction documents using AutoCAD, MicroStation, GIS systems, and client-specific enterprise asset management platforms
  • Analyze information from topographical surveys, utility atlas information, field sketches, client records, and manufacturer equipment datasheets
  • Prepare reports and studies that present technical information clearly and concisely to meet client requirements
  • Work with project management and engineering leadership to manage project risk
  • Communicate complex engineering matters to internal project management, engineering leadership, and field resources
  • Independently manage time and schedule to achieve project milestones
  • Perform field walkdowns with internal staff, clients, customers, governance authorities, and construction partners
  • Travel as needed, typically less than 30%

What You'll Bring
  • Bachelor of Science in Engineering or related degree from an ABET-accredited program
  • PE licensed preferred
  • Minimum 4 to 10 years of relevant structural engineering experience
  • US driver's license and US work authorization
  • Ability to work independently and in interdisciplinary teams
  • Strong technology skills and understanding of the Office365 suite of tools
  • In-depth knowledge of 2D CADD software (AutoCAD or similar) including generating layout drawings and project materials
  • Experience reviewing drawings or engineering materials developed by others
  • Training experience with entry- and mid-level staff
  • Understanding of remote communication software
  • Ability to quickly come up to speed on in-process projects and hit the ground running
  • Experience collaborating with teams to complete larger projects
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills suited for both internal and external conversations
  • Persistence to see projects through to completion
  • Adaptability to change in a dynamic team environment.

What You'll Get
  • Leadership opportunities as team lead for detailed design coordination
  • Direct client interface responsibilities within area of expertise
  • Professional growth with broad application of engineering principles and practices
  • Quality control review experience under professional engineering supervision
  • Training and mentorship responsibilities for entry-level staff
  • Advanced project management and risk management experience
  • Enhanced client communication and technical reporting responsibilities
  • Field experience through walkdowns and stakeholder interactions
  • Travel opportunities for project work and professional development
  • Collaborative work environment with project management and engineering leadership
  • Clear career progression pathway within the HBK Organization's Engineering Track
  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, disability and employer paid life insurance. In addition, all full-time roles are also eligible for 401(k) retirement plan with company match, paid time off and holidays. Tuition reimbursement and other role specific company paid professional development opportunities are also available.

Compensation Range
The anticipated compensation for this position is USD $80,000.00/Yr. - USD $110,000.00/Yr. depending on experience and qualifications.
Equal Opportunity Employer
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.
We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company's Human Resources department.

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