1

Subsurface Utility Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

HBK Engineering, LLC is a fully licensed, professional engineering design firm headquartered in ... 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 ...

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

Project Manager

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$70K/yr

... 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 ...

Power Up Academy 2026 Graduates

Chicago, IL ยท On-site +1

$19 - $23/hr

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

Telecom/SUE Technician

Lisle, IL ยท On-site

$24 - $34/hr

Experience in Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) locating and/or surveying * Familiarity with utility atlases/records and/or GIS programs * Experience with AutoCAD, Microstation or ARAMIS Who We ...

Telecom/SUE Technician

Lisle, IL ยท Hybrid

$24 - $34/hr

Experience in Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) locating and/or surveying * Familiarity with utility atlases/records and/or GIS programs * Experience with AutoCAD, Microstation or ARAMIS Who We ...

Showing results 41-60

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:
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.

Power Up Academy 2026 Graduates

HBK Engineering, LLC

Oak Brook, IL โ€ข On-site, Remote

$19 - $23/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 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

HBK Engineering has career opportunities for successful Power Up Academy graduates interested in working within the utility industry. Only candidates who have completed this Chicago based ComEd program will be considered. We offer a wide array of entry-level positions within our organization. Departments include, but are not limited to, design, land surveying and utility locating.As a professional services organization, HBK views our employees are our number one asset. Our goal is to recruit the best candidates in the industry and retain them for a long, progressive career. HBK is a fast-paced, team-centered environment with many opportunities for growth. Our long list of established clients provides employees with the opportunity to work on dynamic and challenging projects every day. We offer an exciting and gainful work environment encouraging professional, personal, and organizational growth. Our team of cross-functional employees contributes to an entrepreneurial-minded atmosphere where ideas, creativity and solutions are cultivated.

What You'll Do
  • Current Entry Level Opportunities Available in Chicago, IL:

    • Design Technician
What You'll Bring
  • Associate degree in a related technical field. (Preferred)
  • Related technical certificates of achievement in CADD and related software platforms. (Preferred)
  • 2+ years of experience.
  • An ability to work independently and in interdisciplinary teams.
  • Strong technology skills and an understanding of the Office365 suite of tools.
  • In-depth knowledge of 2D CADD software (AutoCAD or similar) including its use to generate layout drawingsor other project materials.
  • Understanding of remote communication software.
  • Ability to come up to speed quickly on in-process projects and hit the ground running.
  • Experience collaborating with a team in order to complete a larger project.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • The persistence to see projects through to completion.
  • Adaptable to change in a dynamic team environment.
What You'll Get
  • Comprehensive entry-level underground utility locating experience
  • Professional development in industry-standard locating tools, methods, and equipment
  • Training in safe worksite practices and construction site operations
  • Experience with complex urban underground utility infrastructure
  • Client liaison responsibilities for professional communication and coordination
  • Hands-on training with locating devices, utility maps, and documentation systems
  • Field experience on construction work sites and public infrastructure projects
  • Clear career progression pathway within the HBK Organization's Locating Track
  • Opportunity to develop expertise in utility standard designs and subsurface installations
  • Foundation for advancing to senior locating and utility coordination roles.
  • 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 RangeThe anticipated compensation for this position is USD $19.00/Hr. - USD $23.00/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.

Employment Type: OTHER