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Subsurface Utility Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Subsurface Utility Engineer information

See California salary details

$34.5K

$95.5K

$164.8K

How much do subsurface utility engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for subsurface utility engineer in California is $95,512.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,600.00 and $116,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a subsurface utility engineer?

A Subsurface Utility Engineer (SUE) is responsible for locating, mapping, and assessing underground utilities such as water, gas, electricity, and telecommunications. They use technologies like ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and electromagnetic detection to identify buried infrastructure and prevent conflicts with construction projects. SUEs help reduce risks, improve project efficiency, and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Their work is essential in urban planning, civil engineering, and infrastructure development.

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

To thrive as a Subsurface Utility Engineer, you need a strong background in civil engineering or surveying, a degree in a related field, and knowledge of underground utility location and mapping methods. Familiarity with geophysical surveying tools, GPS/GIS systems, utility designation standards, and certifications such as ASCE's UESI utility engineering credential are often required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective verbal and written communication distinguish top performers in this role. These capabilities are essential to ensure accurate utility mapping, minimize project risks, and facilitate collaboration with multidisciplinary project teams.

What are the typical challenges faced by subsurface utility engineers in their daily work?

Subsurface Utility Engineers frequently encounter challenges such as interpreting incomplete or outdated utility records, working in congested urban environments, and addressing unforeseen underground conditions during excavation or construction planning. They must closely collaborate with utility owners, municipal agencies, and construction teams to gather accurate data and resolve conflicts. This role often requires adaptability and quick problem-solving, as unexpected situations can affect project timelines and safety. Successfully navigating these challenges ensures smoother project delivery and minimizes costly utility conflicts or service disruptions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in California?

For Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in California are:

Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Subsurface Utility Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,512 per year, or $45.9 per hour.

Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Field Technician l

T2 Utility Engineers

Huntington Beach, CA • On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Interested in the opportunity for a great career as a utility locator, with no experience or advanced degree required? Join T2 Utility Engineers (T2ue) in Huntington Beach, CA as part of our Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) field tech team. Our entry-level SUE field techs gain on-the-job training in utility locating and utility designating, along with knowledge and experience in Subsurface Utility Engineering and surveying methods and technology. When you join our field tech team, you’re not confined to an office. T2ue provides you with outstanding benefits and an opportunity for a great career with room for advancement. 

Are you self-motivated and interested in learning? We’re looking for people interested in advancing and building a career with the leader in the utility locating industry.  You don’t need experience in our industry to join our team. We’ll provide training, you provide the initiative to build a career with us.  

Since 1993, T2 Utility Engineers has provided professional Subsurface Utility Engineering, UC, and surveying services in support of infrastructure projects of all sizes and types. Using advanced technologies, our team of field technicians, engineers, and surveyors, provide quality data and professional insight to help our clients visualize, plan, and design their projects.  Our mission is to provide project stakeholders with quality information, professional insight and deliverables that streamline construction, improve project safety and set the standard for the engineering industry. 

SUE Technician I responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Learn the operation of SUE utility locating and designating equipment, including pipe and cable locators and non-destructive vacuum excavation
  • Use of tools and equipment to conduct utility investigations, including jackhammer, pogo-tamper, concrete saw, compressor blower, vacuum hose, air lance, and hand tools
  • Drive commercial motor vehicles, however a CDL license is not required
  • Complete daily logs of work performed, which includes simple mathematics
  • Perform daily basic vehicle maintenance 
  • Perform safety set-up and maintenance of traffic operations under direct supervision of senior field staff
  • Assist with survey and data collection tasks, supporting overall crew activities
  • Perform daily routine maintenance of equipment

Tech I Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma/GED
  • Valid driver's license with good driving record
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment physical (U.S. only)
  • Ability to obtain a DOT medical card for CMV operation (U.S. only)
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs. and perform physical movements necessary to operat