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Subsurface Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

McKim & Creed

Civil Project Engineer - SUE

Addison, TX · Hybrid

$82.30K - $109.90K/yr

Experience with Subsurface Engineering and TxDOT-related projects Preferred * Professional Engineer registration in Texas or the ability to acquire registration quickly through reciprocity. * TxDOT ...

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$33K

$89.2K

$142K

How much do subsurface engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 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 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.

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 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.

More about Subsurface Engineer jobs
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Subsurface Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Subsurface Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $89,183 per year, or $42.9 per hour.

AutoCAD Specialist - SUE (Subsurface Utility Engineering)

NINE ENGINEERING LLC

Plantation, FL

$60K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
The AutoCAD Specialist – SUE is responsible for preparing and maintaining detailed CAD drawings related to Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) investigations and underground utility design. This position supports engineers, project managers, and field teams by converting survey data, utility records, and field investigation results into accurate utility mapping and design drawings. The role requires strong proficiency in AutoCAD and experience working with underground utility data, including telecommunications, gas, water, sewer, and electric infrastructure.
Key Responsibilities:

  • Prepare and update CAD drawings for SUE investigations, utility mapping, and infrastructure design using AutoCAD.
  • Process and incorporate survey data, field investigation notes, and utility records into detailed CAD plans.
  • Produce plan and profile drawings, base maps, utility layouts, and construction drawings.
  • Interpret data from utility locates, test holes, and geophysical investigations performed during Subsurface Utility Engineering.
  • Assist in preparing drawings in accordance with **ASCE 38 Quality Levels (QL-A, QL-B, QL-C, QL-D).
  • Maintain and organize CAD files, layers, and project documentation in accordance with company CAD standards.
  • Review drawings for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with project specifications.
  • Coordinate with survey teams, SUE field crews, engineers, and project managers to ensure accurate representation of underground utilities.
  • Update drawings based on field redlines, engineering revisions, and survey updates.
  • Prepare exhibits, permit drawings, and deliverables for client submittals.
Required Qualifications:

  • Proficiency in AutoCAD with strong drafting and technical drawing skills.
  • Experience preparing utility base maps and underground utility layouts.
  • Ability to read and interpret civil engineering plans, surveys, and utility records.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple drawing revisions.
  • Understanding of CAD layering standards, scaling, and dimensioning practices.
  • Effective communication and coordination skills with technical teams.
Preferred Qualifications:

  • Associate degree or certification in Drafting, Engineering Technology, or CAD Design.
  • Experience working with SUE projects and underground utility investigations.
  • Familiarity with civil engineering software such as AutoCAD Civil 3D.
  • Knowledge of telecom, gas, water, sewer, or electrical utility infrastructure.
  • Experience with survey data integration and mapping.
Typical Work Environment:

  • Engineering and consulting firms
  • Utility design companies
  • Infrastructure and construction support firms
Key Skills:

  • AutoCAD drafting and design
  • Utility mapping and interpretation
  • Technical documentation and drawing control
  • Coordination with survey and engineering teams
  • Understanding of underground infrastructure systems
Position Objective:
To support engineering and design teams by producing accurate CAD drawings that reflect field-verified underground utilities and ensure safe, efficient planning and construction of infrastructure projects.