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Subsurface Utility Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Quanta Services

Structural Associate Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$24 - $34/hr

An Associate Designer at HBK Engineering is a position responsible for designing engineering systems for overhead and subsurface utility projects. This role involves owning all phases of the design ...

Quanta Services

Design Engineer - Civil

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

HBK Engineering, LLC is a fully licensed, professional engineering design firm headquartered in ... HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support ...

Quanta Services

Electrical Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

HBK Engineering, LLC is a fully licensed, professional engineering design firm headquartered in ... HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support ...

IMEG

Project Surveyor

Rock Island, IL · On-site

$77K - $98K/yr

... Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) teams use state-of-the-art geophysical equipment to locate and map existing buried utilities Locations available: Rock Island, IL State of Illinois Salary Range ...

IMEG

Project Surveyor

Rock Island, IL · On-site

$77K - $98K/yr

... Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) teams use state-of-the-art geophysical equipment to locate and map existing buried utilities Locations available: Rock Island, IL State of Illinois Salary Range ...

IMEG

Survey Technician

Rock Island, IL · On-site

$51K - $84K/yr

Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) capabilities support quality mapping of underground utilities to aid in design and conflict mitigation Locations available: Rock Island, IL State of Illinois ...

IMEG

Survey Technician

Rock Island, IL · On-site

$51K - $84K/yr

Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) capabilities support quality mapping of underground utilities to aid in design and conflict mitigation Locations available: Rock Island, IL State of Illinois ...

HBK Engineering, LLC

Design Engineer

Oak Brook, IL

About Us HBK Engineering, LLC is a fully licensed, professional engineering design firm ... HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support ...

HBK Engineering, LLC

Design Engineer

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

About Us HBK Engineering, LLC is a fully licensed, professional engineering design firm ... HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support ...

HBK Engineering, LLC

Design Engineer

Chicago, IL

About Us HBK Engineering, LLC is a fully licensed, professional engineering design firm ... HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsSubsurface Utility Engineer JobsSubsurface Utility Engineer Jobs in Illinois

Subsurface Utility Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$33.9K

$93.8K

$161.8K

How much do subsurface utility engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for subsurface utility engineer in Illinois is $93,782.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,300.00 and $114,800.00 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 Illinois? The most popular types of Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in Illinois? For Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Subsurface Utility Engineer job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 94% Full Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 90% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,782 per year, or $45.1 per hour.

Structural Associate Designer

HBK Engineering, LLC

Chicago, IL • On-site

$24/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

About Us
HBK Engineering, LLC is a fully licensed, professional engineering design firm headquartered in Chicago, IL with a staff approaching 700 individuals. HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support services and permitting facilitation. Since our founding in 1998, we have earned a reputation for delivering outstanding, accurate services in extremely time-sensitive, multilayered environments. That "industry-recognized" performance has propelled our expansion and the ability to provide engineering services in all 50 states. With 25 offices nationwide, including concentrations in the Midwest and on the Coasts, HBK brings together a dedicated team whose main focus is the design and protection of utilities and utility networks. We have successfully performed engineering work for a complete spectrum of utility infrastructure projects providing solutions and construction support from Coast to Coast in areas ranging from complex urban city centers, to rural greenfields, to limited access rights-of-way. In July 2020, HBK Engineering was acquired by Quanta Services. Quanta Services provides infrastructure services for electric power, pipeline, and communications industries and employees over 50,000 people. Quanta's focus on the utility industry and HBK's focus on constructability in our designs has made our integration into the Quanta family of companies seamless.
About this Role
An Associate Designer at HBK Engineering is a position responsible for designing engineering systems for overhead and subsurface utility projects. This role involves owning all phases of the design lifecycle from initiation through construction completion and project closeout. The position requires deploying creative and unique solutions to address complex electrical, structural, civil, and construction-related challenges while ensuring compliance with relevant specifications, codes, and client requirements. Office Locations: Chicago or Oak Brook, IL, Philadelphia or Norristown, PA, Lake Mary FL, or Denver, CO
What You'll Do
  • Design engineering systems in compliance with specifications, codes, and client requirements for overhead and subsurface utility projects
  • Deploy creative and unique solutions to address complex electrical, structural, civil, and construction-related challenges
  • Own all phases of the design lifecycle from project initiation through construction completion and closeout
  • Prepare detailed engineering and construction documents using AutoCAD, MicroStation, GIS systems, and client-specific enterprise asset management platforms
  • Analyze information from topographical surveys, utility atlas information, field sketches, client records, and manufacturer equipment datasheets
  • Develop utility pole loading models using structural software
  • Generate material and equipment purchase order requests
  • Prepare reports and studies that present technical information clearly and concisely to meet client requirements
  • Work with project management and engineering leadership to manage project risk
  • Communicate complex engineering matters to internal project management, engineering leadership, and field resources
  • Independently manage time and schedule to achieve project milestones
  • Perform field walkdowns with internal staff, clients, customers, governance authorities, and construction partners
  • Travel as needed, typically less than 25%.

What You'll Bring
  • Associate degree in a related technical field (preferred)
  • Related technical certificates in CADD and related software platforms (preferred)
  • 2+ years of relevant experience
  • Ability to work independently and in interdisciplinary teams
  • Strong technology skills and understanding of the Office365 suite of tools
  • In-depth knowledge of 2D CADD software (Revit) including generating layout drawings and project materials
  • Understanding of remote communication software
  • Ability to quickly come up to speed on in-process projects and hit the ground running
  • Experience collaborating with teams to complete larger projects
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Persistence to see projects through to completion
  • Adaptability to change in a dynamic team environment.

What You'll Get
  • Opportunity to work on diverse overhead and subsurface utility projects
  • Professional development through exposure to complex engineering challenges
  • Collaborative work environment with interdisciplinary teams
  • Travel opportunities for field work and client engagement
  • Career growth within the HBK Organization's Design Track
  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, disability and employer paid life insurance. In addition, all full-time roles are also eligible for 401(k) retirement plan with company match, paid time off and holidays. Tuition reimbursement and other role specific company paid professional development opportunities are also available.

Compensation Range
The anticipated compensation for this position is USD $24.00/Hr. - USD $34.00/Hr. depending on experience and qualifications.
Equal Opportunity Employer
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.
We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company's Human Resources department.

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