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Subsurface Utility Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ESP Associates

Subsurface Utility Technician

Hendersonville, NC · On-site

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

ESP is a multi-discipline engineering design and consulting firm providing our clients with civil ... subsurface utility engineering, and construction engineering inspection. Through years of dedicated ...

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Subsurface Utility Engineer information

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$35K

$96.8K

$167K

How much do subsurface utility engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for subsurface utility engineer in the United States is $96,779.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,500.00 and $118,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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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Subsurface Utility Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Subsurface Utility Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,779 per year, or $46.5 per hour.
General Manager - Subsurface Utility Engineering

General Manager - Subsurface Utility Engineering

JARBO

Worcester, MA

$100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

The General Manager – Subsurface Utility Engineering will build and lead a new Worcester, MA operation from the ground up, overseeing all field and office functions across the Worcester metro and surrounding Massachusetts markets. This role is responsible for establishing market presence, securing clients, and directing day-to-day SUE, utility markout, and vacuum excavation services. The General Manager will own revenue growth and division performance with full organizational support behind the expansion.

What We Offer

  • Base salary of approximately $100,000, negotiable based on candidate experience
  • Quarterly commission ranging from 3% to 7% of new sales revenue generated
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance coverage
  • 401(k) eligibility after a qualified waiting period
  • Opportunity to build and lead a greenfield market with strong organizational backing

Key Responsibilities – General Manager – Subsurface Utility Engineering

  • Build and manage all Worcester-area field operations including crew staffing, scheduling, and daily oversight of SUE, utility markout, and vacuum excavation activities
  • Drive business development by identifying new clients, cultivating municipal and private-sector relationships, and expanding service contracts within the Worcester metro and broader Massachusetts market
  • Own full P&L responsibility for the Worcester division, including budgeting, forecasting, cost controls, and EBITDA performance
  • Recruit, onboard, and develop technicians, project managers, and support staff to build a high-performing team from a standing start
  • Ensure all field operations meet quality, safety, and compliance standards while coordinating with corporate leadership on growth strategy and expansion milestones

Qualifications – General Manager – Subsurface Utility Engineering

  • 10 or more years of experience in underground infrastructure services, with direct knowledge of Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE), utility markout, or vacuum excavation operations
  • Proven P&L leadership at a regional or divisional level, including experience building or scaling a service division
  • Strong business development track record with demonstrated ability to generate new client relationships and grow recurring revenue
  • Experience managing multi-crew field operations, estimating, scheduling, and QA/QC in a utility services environment
  • Valid driver's license required; must be located in or willing to relocate to the Worcester, MA metro area

Preferred Qualifications – SUE Division Manager / Market Leader

  • Prior experience launching a new geographic market or opening a branch office for an underground services firm
  • Familiarity with ASCE 38 Quality Level standards and SUE project delivery methods
  • Existing relationships with municipal clients, MassDOT, or engineering firms in the Worcester or central Massachusetts region

Physical Requirements – General Manager – Subsurface Utility Engineering

  • Must be able to work outdoors in varying weather conditions typical to Central Massachusetts and New England
  • Ability to walk active construction and field work sites; occasional lifting up to 50 lbs required
  • Regular local travel throughout the Worcester metro and Massachusetts; occasional travel to corporate offices required
  • Full-time position; standard business hours with flexibility to support field operations as needed