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Subsurface Utility Engineer Jobs in North Carolina

Must be familiar with the Subsurface Utility Engineering process and interpreting data * Determine cost responsibility (prior rights) and assist utility owners with preparation of utility agreements ...

Utility Coordinator

Shelby, NC · On-site

$55K - $62K/yr

Must be familiar with the Subsurface Utility Engineering process and interpreting data * Determine cost responsibility (prior rights) and assist utility owners with preparation of utility agreements ...

Must be familiar with the Subsurface Utility Engineering process and interpreting data * Determine cost responsibility (prior rights) and assist utility owners with preparation of utility agreements ...

Utility Coordinator

Winston Salem, NC · On-site

$52K - $59K/yr

Must be familiar with the Subsurface Utility Engineering process and interpreting data * Determine cost responsibility (prior rights) and assist utility owners with preparation of utility agreements ...

Utility Coordinator

Greenville, NC · On-site

$55K - $62K/yr

Must be familiar with the Subsurface Utility Engineering process and interpreting data * Determine cost responsibility (prior rights) and assist utility owners with preparation of utility agreements ...

Showing results 21-40

Subsurface Utility Engineer information

See North Carolina salary details

$31.8K

$88K

$151.8K

How much do subsurface utility engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for subsurface utility engineer in North Carolina is $87,953.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,000.00 and $107,700.00 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 popular job titles related to Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in North Carolina?

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

Infographic showing various Subsurface Utility Engineer job openings in North Carolina as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 87% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,953 per year, or $42.3 per hour.

Subsurface Utility Engineering Party Chief

Johnson Mirmiran and Thompson, Inc.

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson rating

9.8

Company rating: 9.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 453 rated engineering


Job description


Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson is a dynamic, 100% employee-owned consulting firm with more than 2,800 professionals, providing a full range of multidisciplinary engineering, architecture, information technology, and related services to public agencies and private clients throughout the United States. JMT is currently ranked #45 on Engineering News-Record's list of the Top 500 Design Firms.
Position Summary: JMT is currently looking for experienced SUE Party Chiefs to join the Underground Utilities, Land Surveying, and Mapping team in New Bern and Raleigh!
Immigration sponsorship or support (e.g. H1B, F-1 CPT/OPT/STEM OPT) is not available for this position, except for qualified candidates eligible for the TN visa classification.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities
  • Participates in pre-survey planning meetings with project managers, engineers, and contractor representatives
  • Assigns and monitors work, and provides input for evaluation of members of field survey crew
  • Instructs and trains survey crew in survey and mapping methods, use of equipment, and field safety procedures
  • Completes daily report cards and field note sketches
  • Provides time estimates for specific tasks
  • Performs complex surveying calculations using calculator, computer, and coordinate geometry software such as AutoCAD

Nonessential Functions and Responsibilities
Perform other related duties as assigned
Required Skills
  • Must successfully complete and pass JMT's Motor Vehicle screening
  • Valid Driver's License Required
  • Able to pass Background Check
  • Must be able to fully comprehend and interpret roadway and utility construction plans, and utility record drawings
  • Use of multiple types of utility designating equipment
  • Good organizational, written, and verbal communications skills.
  • Knowledge of Vacuum Excavation and Ground Penetrating Radar equipment/procedures
  • Able to work outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Able to bend, kneel, lift and carry up to 50lbs as needed

Required Experience
  • Minimum of five (5) years of experience in the successful application of multiple types of utility designating and locating equipment, with demonstrated ability to lead project assignments and supervise multiple crews
  • Ability to lead project assignments
  • Team Attitude / Mindset
  • Able to work 7:00 am - 4:00 pm Monday - Friday (Minimum)
  • Ability to travel required
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Land Surveying experience a plus

Working Conditions
Work is performed in the field 90% of the time. Ability to extensively perform bending, kneeling, standing, shoveling, and lifting and carrying objects weighing up to 50 lbs as needed. Work may be conducted outside in heat/cold, wet/humid, and dry/arid conditions.
Work is performed within a general office environment 10% of the time. Office work is generally sedentary in nature, but may require occasional standing and walking. Lighting and temperature are adequate and there are no hazardous or unpleasant conditions caused by noise, dust, etc. within the office environment.
Some travel required.
Some night shift work required.
Benefits
JMT offers outstanding opportunities for career and professional growth. We are 100% employee-owned (ESOP) and offer outstanding health care coverage and other benefits, including:
  • Affordable Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Company paid Life and Disability Insurance
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Caregiver Leave Program
  • 401K Retirement Plan (Traditional and Roth options)
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Career Development Programs
  • And more...
  • Benefits JMT

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.

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