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Freelance Subsurface Utility Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

T2 Utility Engineers

Project Manager

Palatine, IL · On-site

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 ...

T2 Utility Engineers

Project Manager

Palatine, IL · On-site

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 ...

Quanta Services

Graduate 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 ...

HBK Engineering, LLC

Engineering Specialist

Geneva, IL · On-site

HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support ... Advanced preparation for Professional Engineer (PE) licensure. Compensation RangeThe anticipated ...

HBK Engineering, LLC

Engineering Specialist

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$70K/yr

HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support ... Advanced preparation for Professional Engineer (PE) licensure. Compensation Range The anticipated ...

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

Freelance Subsurface Utility Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$41.2K

$95.7K

$151.9K

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

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance subsurface utility engineer in Chicago, IL is $95,670.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,100.00 and $112,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance subsurface utility engineer?

Freelance Subsurface Utility Engineers are professionals who specialize in detecting, mapping, and managing underground utilities such as water pipes, gas lines, and electrical cables on a contract or project basis. They use techniques like Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), electromagnetic locating, and utility mapping to prevent damage during construction projects. By working independently or with multiple clients, freelance subsurface utility engineers offer flexible expertise to construction companies, municipalities, and engineering firms. Their work is crucial for ensuring safety, regulatory compliance, and efficient project planning.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance subsurface utility engineer?

To thrive as a Freelance Subsurface Utility Engineer, you need a strong background in civil engineering, utility mapping, and site investigation, often supported by a relevant engineering degree and professional licensure (such as PE). Proficiency with geophysical survey tools, CAD/GIS software, and ground-penetrating radar (GPR) systems is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help foster client relationships and ensure accurate reporting. These capabilities are crucial for delivering precise utility location data, minimizing project risks, and maintaining industry compliance.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance subsurface utility engineers when managing multiple projects simultaneously?

Freelance subsurface utility engineers often juggle several projects at once, which can present challenges such as coordinating schedules with various contractors, ensuring timely access to project sites, and keeping up with differing client requirements. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are essential for managing overlapping deadlines and data from diverse sources. Additionally, freelancers must stay updated on local regulations and utility mapping standards to ensure accuracy and compliance across all 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 Freelance Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Freelance Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Freelance Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs near you

Graduate Engineer - Civil

HBK Engineering, LLC

Chicago, IL • On-site

$69K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 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
A Graduate Engineer at HBK Engineering is a position for engineering professionals with foundational experience in the field. This role involves designing engineering systems for overhead and subsurface utility projects while developing creative and unique solutions to address complex electrical, structural, civil, and construction-related challenges. The position encompasses ownership of all phases of the design lifecycle from initiation through construction completion and project closeout, with increased responsibilities in client communication and project risk management compared to entry-level positions. Office locations: Chicago and Oak Brook, IL and Denver, CO.
What You'll Do
  • Design engineering systems in compliance with specifications, codes, and client requirements for overhead and subsurface utility projects
  • Deploy creative and unique solutions to address complex electrical, structural, civil, and construction-related challenges
  • Own all phases of the design lifecycle from project initiation through construction completion and closeout
  • 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 25%

What You'll Bring
  • Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering or related degree from an ABET-accredited program
  • EIT Certification (preferred)
  • 1.5+ years of relevant 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
  • 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
  • Persistence to see projects through to completion
  • Adaptability to change in a dynamic team environment.

What You'll Get
  • Progressive engineering experience with increased project responsibilities
  • Professional development opportunities in utility engineering design and project risk management
  • Enhanced client communication and reporting experience
  • Hands-on experience with industry-standard software and design tools
  • Field experience through walkdowns and stakeholder interactions
  • Travel opportunities for project work and professional growth
  • Collaborative work environment with project management and engineering leadership
  • Clear career progression pathway within the HBK Organization's Engineering Track
  • Continued foundation for pursuing Professional Engineer (PE) licensure.
  • 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 $69,000.00/Yr. - USD $80,000.00/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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