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Subsurface Utility Engineer Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

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Subsurface Utility Engineer information

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 popular job titles related to Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in Florida? For Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Florida are hiring for Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Subsurface Utility Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Subsurface Utility Engineer job openings in Florida as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution.
Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Technician

Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Technician

JARBO

Tampa, FL

$32 - $40/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

A growing full service engineering firm in the Tampa, FL metro is hiring a Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Field Technician. This SUE Field Technician will use ground penetrating radar, electromagnetic locators, and vacuum excavation equipment to identify and map underground utilities on active project sites. The role supports civil infrastructure design by providing accurate utility data that reduces risk during construction.

What We Offer

  • Hourly pay of $32.00 - $40.00 per hour based on experience and qualifications
  • Overtime opportunity during peak project periods (50+ hours per week available)
  • 100% Company paid Medical, as well as vision and dental insurance
  • Hands-on training with industry-standard geophysical and vacuum excavation equipment
  • Career growth path into senior SUE technician and project-level roles
  • Field-based work across the Tampa Bay region and throughout Florida

Key Responsibilities - Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Field Technician

  • Operate ground penetrating radar (GPR) and electromagnetic (EM) pipe and cable locating equipment to designate subsurface utilities per ASCE 38 quality levels
  • Mark located utilities with paint and flags and produce accurate field sketches and drawings for client deliverables
  • Operate vacuum excavation trucks and related equipment to expose, verify, and record utility depth and characteristics (test holes/potholing)
  • Work as part of a field crew under the direction of a Senior SUE Technician, supporting daily survey and locating operations
  • Assist with maintenance of vehicles, vacuum trucks, GPR units, and locating equipment; keep work sites clean and organized

Qualifications - Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Field Technician

  • High school diploma or equivalent required; vocational or technical school training preferred
  • Valid Florida driver's license with an acceptable driving record required
  • Ability to travel up to 50% of the time, including overnight travel as project needs require
  • Ability to work 50+ hours per week during busy project periods
  • Good verbal and written communication skills; ability to produce legible field notes and sketches

Preferred Qualifications - Utility Locating Technician

  • Prior experience operating GPR, EM locators, or other geophysical designating equipment
  • Familiarity with ASCE 38 quality level standards (Level A through Level D)
  • Experience operating or riding in vacuum excavation trucks
  • Exposure to CAD software, GIS, or digital data collection tools
  • OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification; Temporary Traffic Control (TTC) certification

Physical Requirements - Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Field Technician

  • Ability to lift and carry equipment weighing up to 50 pounds regularly
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, and kneel for extended periods on uneven terrain
  • Work performed outdoors in varying weather conditions including heat, rain, and direct sun
  • Exposure to active roadways, construction zones, and utility rights-of-way
  • Shift schedule may include early starts, extended days, and weekend work during peak periods
  • Travel to project sites throughout Florida with overnight stays as needed