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Subsurface Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Prairie Engineers

Subsurface Utility Engineer

Columbia, IL · On-site

$30 - $36/hr

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 ...

Leidos

Senior Geotechnical Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

Serve as a senior technical expert in geotechnical engineering, engineering geology, and subsurface characterization. * Conduct advanced geotechnical assessments using open-source information ...

Leidos

Senior Geotechnical Engineer

Reston, VA

Serve as a senior technical expert in geotechnical engineering, engineering geology, and subsurface characterization. * Conduct advanced geotechnical assessments using open-source information ...

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Subsurface Engineer information

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$33K

$89.2K

$142K

How much do subsurface engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for subsurface engineer in the United States is $89,183.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,500.00 and $109,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To excel as a Subsurface Engineer, you need a strong background in geology, reservoir engineering, and petroleum engineering, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with technical software such as Petrel, Eclipse, and other reservoir modeling tools, as well as familiarity with industry standards and certifications like SPE or IWCF, is important. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you stand out in multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for optimizing reservoir performance, ensuring safe operations, and maximizing value from subsurface assets.

What is the difference between Subsurface Engineer vs Reservoir Engineer?

AspectSubsurface EngineerReservoir Engineer
Primary FocusGeological formations, wellbore stability, and subsurface data analysisReservoir performance, fluid flow, and production optimization
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Geology, Petroleum Engineering, or related field; often certifications in subsurface analysisBachelor's in Petroleum Engineering or Reservoir Engineering; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentOffshore/onshore drilling sites, subsurface modeling labsReservoir simulation labs, field production sites
Industry UsageOil & gas exploration, drilling operationsProduction planning, reservoir management

Both roles are vital in the oil and gas industry, focusing on different aspects of subsurface resources. Subsurface Engineers analyze geological formations and assist in drilling, while Reservoir Engineers optimize production based on reservoir behavior. They often collaborate but have distinct responsibilities and skill sets.

What are subsurface engineers?

Subsurface engineers, also known as completion or reservoir engineers, are professionals in the oil and gas industry who design, implement, and manage systems and processes to extract resources from beneath the earth's surface. They focus on optimizing recovery techniques, evaluating well performance, and ensuring the safety and efficiency of subsurface operations. Their work often involves collaborating with geologists, drilling engineers, and production teams to maximize resource extraction while minimizing environmental impact.

What are some common challenges Subsurface Engineers face when collaborating with multidisciplinary teams?

Subsurface Engineers often work closely with geologists, drilling engineers, and production teams to optimize reservoir performance. A common challenge is ensuring effective communication across disciplines, as each team may have different technical perspectives and priorities. Managing data integration and aligning on project goals are key to successful collaboration. Proactively building strong working relationships and maintaining open communication channels can help overcome these challenges and lead to more effective project outcomes.
More about Subsurface Engineer jobs
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What job categories do people searching Subsurface Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Subsurface Engineer jobs are:
Subsurface Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Subsurface Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,183 per year, or $42.9 per hour.

Subsurface Utility Engineer

Prairie Engineers

Springfield, IL • On-site

$30 - $36/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 16 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.

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