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Subsurface Utility Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... engineering design firm headquartered in Chicago, IL with a staff approaching 700 individuals. HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support ...

Planner I

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$25/hr

... engineering design firm headquartered in Chicago, IL with a staff approaching 700 individuals. HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support ...

... engineering design firm headquartered in Chicago, IL with a staff approaching 700 individuals. HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support ...

Designer

Ontario, CA · On-site +1

$28 - $35/hr

... engineering design firm headquartered in Chicago, IL with a staff approaching 700 individuals. HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support ...

Designer

Ontario, CA · On-site

$28/hr

... engineering design firm headquartered in Chicago, IL with a staff approaching 700 individuals. HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support ...

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Showing results 1-20

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 Jul 2, 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.

How much do subsurface utility engineers make?

Subsurface Utility Engineers typically earn a median annual salary between $60,000 and $90,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially in regions with high infrastructure development activity.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most subsurface utility engineers earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, highly experienced professionals with advanced certifications, extensive project management responsibilities, or working in senior leadership roles can potentially earn $500,000 or more per year. Such compensation is typically associated with senior-level positions in large firms or specialized consulting roles in the engineering industry.

What is a Subsurface Utility Engineer job?

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 in the Subsurface Utility Engineer position, and why are they important?

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 engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior subsurface utility engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in utility mapping, and certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) can earn $200,000 or more annually. High salaries are often associated with leadership roles, large project management, or working in high-cost-of-living areas.

What does a subsurface utility engineer do?

A subsurface utility engineer (SUE) identifies, maps, and manages underground utility lines to prevent conflicts during construction projects. They use specialized tools like ground-penetrating radar and utility locating equipment, and often hold certifications such as the ASCE SUE certification. Their work involves detailed data analysis and coordination with construction teams to ensure safety and project efficiency.
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:
Infographic showing various Subsurface Utility Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% 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

Rancho Cordova, CA • On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Be an early applicant


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 Rancho Cordova, 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 operate heavy tools and equipment
  • Ability to work outdoors in all climates
  • Willingness to travel up to 50% of the time, by company vehicle or commercial airline, up to 2 week continuous stay.
  • Must have a good oral communication skills and attention to detail
  • OSHA Safety certifications are a plus
  • Prior utility related experience is a plus
  • Basic understanding of Highway/Utility plans is a plus, but not required

We Offer a Complete Benefits Package!

In addition to the opportunity to grow and advance, we offer competitive salaries, paid training, and comprehensive benefits with options to meet your needs, including;

  • Paid time off
  • Paid overtime
  • Paid holidays
  • Company provided cell phone or cell phone allowance
  • Boot and clothing allowance
  • Generous daily food and incidentals allowance when overnight travel is required
  • Medical and prescription drug coverage – multiple plan options
  • Flexible Spending (FSA), Dependent Care (DCA), or Health Savings (HSA) accounts
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Wellness and Employee Assistance Programs
  • Parental, Family and Medical leave
  • 401-K retirement plan w/company match
  • Life insurance
  • Short / long term disability
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Spot and annual bonus incentives
  • Employee discounts and perks

* Please Note that selected candidates will be required to pass a drug, background, and reference screening.

T2 Utility Engineers is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to an inclusive, equitable and accessible workplace. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, citizenship, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, family status or disability. If you require an accommodation at any time during the recruitment or application process, please contact Human Resources.

T2 Utility Engineers does not accept unsolicited resumes from any 3rd party agencies. No fee will be paid to 3rd parties who submit unsolicited resumes to any T2 Utility Engineers employee. Resumes from approved vendors must be specifically requested by T2 Utility Engineers and approved by the T2 Utility Engineers Talent Acquisition Team.