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Subsurface Utility Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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

What engineers make 300,000 a year?

Senior subsurface utility engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in utility mapping, and certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $300,000 annually, especially in high-demand regions or with leadership roles. These positions often involve complex project management, advanced technical expertise, and working in consulting or infrastructure development environments.

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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

Subsurface Utility Engineers typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily rates are more common in specialized consulting roles like senior project managers, highly experienced geotechnical engineers, or contractors working on large-scale projects. These positions often require advanced certifications, extensive experience, and work in high-demand environments. Compensation varies based on location, expertise, and project scope.

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 require knowledge of civil engineering standards and safety protocols. Their work helps ensure project accuracy and safety by reducing utility damage and delays.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with experience, bonuses, and stock options. High-level roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and leadership responsibilities, typically found in large companies or executive positions.
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Infographic showing various Subsurface Utility Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Driller/Exploration Team Member IV

Driller/Exploration Team Member IV

TERRACON

Nashville, TN

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Terracon rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 112 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 57 rated business consultants


Job description

Exploration Team Members (ETMs) will perform subsurface exploration duties using conventional drilling or in-situ testing techniques. Drill methods may include; auger drilling, mud rotary drilling, air rotary drilling, and diamond bit coring techniques. In-situ testing techniques may include cone penetration testing (CPT), pressure meter testing, and rock dilatometer testing. Work may also include the installation of instrumentation such as piezometers, monitor wells and inclinometers. Work as part of a multiple person team on projects. ETMs will perform daily tasks including: survey and locate drilling points; conduct site reconnaissance; load/unload tooling, materials and samples; classify soil and rock samples; perform routine maintenance and basic repairs on drilling equipment, prepare internal (daily field forms) and external (DOT Logs) paperwork. 

Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace. Terracon was recognized as the #1 firm in Asbestos and Lead Abatement.

Terracon's vision of "Together, we are best at people" is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.

Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum 5-years' experience.
  • Proficient in geotechnical and/or environmental drilling methods.
  • Valid driver's license with acceptable violation history.
  • Ability to obtain a DOT Medical Card within first 30 days of employment.
  • Many states require specific driller/well installation licensure. When applicable, such licensure is required.

Preferred Certification and Skills:

  • Experience in
    • In-Situ test methods
    • Instrumentation Installation
    • Barge Drilling
    • Angle Drilling
    • Environmental Drilling
  • Regional Drilling Licensure
  • Valid Class A or B commercial driver's license.
  • The employee will be expected to perform the following tasks:
    • Demonstrate an ability to problem solve and implement solutions on moderately to very complex problems with guidance from management or other senior level ETMs. Operate a geotechnical drill rig to advance boreholes to all depths required in their region.
    • Lead a 2 or 3 man drill crew and support their development in all tasks associated with drilling operations.
    • Be proficient in all drilling methods common to their region.
    • Install instrumentation and monitoring wells.
    • Perform routine repairs and maintenance.
    • Perform surveying, site reconnaissance, and utility clearance tasks.
    • Drive all forms of drilling equipment to and from project locations.
    • Inspect and complete routine maintenance of equipment.
    • Support project preparation and pre-task planning.
    • Train junior staff in drilling methods.
    • Follow safety rules, guidelines and standards for all projects. Participate in pre-task planning. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
    • Be responsible for maintaining quality standards on all projects.

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