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Subsurface Utility Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Perform professional civil engineering work which includes development of 3D design models ... Analyze data from surveys, GIS data, subsurface utility information, maps, geotechnical data, and ...

Perform professional civil engineering work which includes development of 3D design models ... Analyze data from surveys, GIS data, subsurface utility information, maps, geotechnical data, and ...

Exploration Team Members (ETMs) will perform subsurface exploration duties using conventional ... minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations ...

Driller/Exploration Team Member IV

Nashville, TN · On-site

$21 - $28.25/hr

Exploration Team Members (ETMs) will perform subsurface exploration duties using conventional ... Perform surveying, site reconnaissance, and utility clearance tasks. * Drive all forms of drilling ...

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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 job categories do people searching Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:
Infographic showing various Subsurface Utility Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Survey Geographic Discipline Leader

Survey Geographic Discipline Leader

Colliers Engineering & Design

Brentwood, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Colliers Engineering & Design rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

244th of 369 rated engineering


Job description

Overview
Colliers Engineering & Design is seeking a Geographic Discipline Lead to join our Survey Operations team in Nashville, Tennessee. This leadership role is responsible for overseeing the professional, technical, operational, marketing, administrative, and financial functions of the survey discipline within the region.
The Geographic Discipline Lead serves as a recognized subject matter expert, representing the firm's capabilities and standards in the surveying profession. This individual will provide strategic leadership to ensure the delivery of high-quality, cost-effective services while supporting Department Managers, Project Managers, and staff. The role is accountable for driving operational excellence, fostering team development, and achieving financial performance goals that contribute to the overall success and profitability of the company.
Responsibilities
Serve as the primary technical liaison between project manager and staff on assigned projects and manage completion of technical elements on projects. Assist with project manager's efforts to prepare for and/or attend client/agency meetings with, or for PM's to present information pertinent to the project.
Manage day-to-day Land Surveying Operation including:
  • Client Communication (internal and external).
  • Project Proposal Preparation & Invoicing.
  • Overseeing 2 or more Survey Crews and an office CAD team.
  • Trimble/Leica Survey Data Processing, Base Mapping and Plan Development.
  • New Business Development combining existing clients with Colliers's diverse Land Survey & Measurement Service lines which include: Right-of-Way Surveys/mapping, mobile and tripod based Laser Scanning, GPS and Conventional Surveys & Subsurface Utility.

Engineering Supervisory Responsibilities:
  • Provide Feedback to your staff.
  • Provide performance goals for your staff.
  • Meet with you staff to provide feedback and review job performance.
  • Supervise and review reports/findings, plans, specifications, cost estimates, permits, and other contract documents.
  • Manage and review project schedules, budgets and QC/QA plans.

Qualifications
  • Education: Bachelor's Degree in Surveying / Geospatial preferred.
  • Experience: 10+ years Surveying/Geospatial.
  • Licensure/Certifications: PLS required.
  • Must be able to generate revenue through existing client base and new business development.
  • Ability to read, write and understand English for purposes of comprehending written job-related communications and verbal instructions and interactions.

Familiar with the survey workflows associated with the following software:
  • Trimble Business Center.
  • AutoCad Civil 3D.
  • MicroStation.
  • Bentley Open Roads Designer Experience a plus.
  • Leica Cyclone a plus.

What We Offer
At Colliers Engineering & Design, our people are our most important resource. That's why we are committed to providing all our employees with a safe, comfortable work environment, potential for career advancement, and the ability to impact society through their projects as well as Company sponsored activities.
This dedication begins with supporting a work life balance through a generous compensation package that includes: company paid medical, dental, and vision coverage; paid pregnancy disability leave; short- and long-term disability insurance; life insurance; a company-matched 401(k)/Roth; paid time off that includes parental and military leave; employee referral and professional license bonuses and a straight time policy that compensates exempt employees for billable hours worked in excess of 40 billable hours within a work week.
We have also created an internal culture that provides the resources and technology needed to encourage personal and professional growth opportunities through reimbursement for education; a free in-house resource for hundreds of educational and self-enrichment courses; mentorship program; wellness program; Women's Organization and ongoing philanthropic opportunities.
Apply today to learn how you can join our team of professionals, so we can help you Accelerate Your Success!

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About Colliers Engineering & Design

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Colliers Engineering & Design, an affiliate of Colliers, is a trusted provider of multi-discipline engineering and architecture, design and consulting services to public and private sector clients. Headquartered in Holmdel, New Jersey with offices throughout the United States, we specialize in providing a comprehensive suite of services including civil/site, architecture, transportation, survey/geospatial, infrastructure, governmental, geotechnical/environmental, telecommunications, utilities/energy and project management. We employ professionals who utilize the most advanced technologies to deliver customized solutions for our clients.

Industry

Engineering professional services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Holmdel, NJ, US

Year founded

1984