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Subsurface Utility Engineering Department Manager information

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$46.5K

$146.9K

$174K

How much do subsurface utility engineering department manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for subsurface utility engineering department manager in the United States is $146,868.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a subsurface utility engineering department manager?

A Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Department Manager is a professional responsible for overseeing teams that locate, map, and manage underground utilities such as water, gas, electricity, and telecommunications. They coordinate SUE projects, ensure compliance with industry standards, and communicate findings to engineers, project managers, and clients to reduce risks during construction and infrastructure development. This role often involves supervising staff, managing budgets, and maintaining quality control to ensure accurate and safe identification of subsurface utilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a subsurface utility engineering department manager?

To thrive as a Subsurface Utility Engineering Department Manager, you need expertise in civil engineering, utility mapping, and project management, typically supported by a PE license and a degree in civil engineering or a related field. Familiarity with utility locating technologies, CAD software, GIS systems, and SUE standards such as ASCE 38-22 is essential. Strong leadership, client communication, and problem-solving skills help foster team performance and effective project delivery. These competencies ensure accurate utility detection, regulatory compliance, and successful execution of complex infrastructure projects.

What are some common challenges faced by a subsurface utility engineering department manager, and how can they be addressed?

As a SUE Department Manager, you may encounter challenges such as coordinating multidisciplinary teams, managing project timelines amid unforeseen utility conflicts, and ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations. Effective communication with both internal team members and external stakeholders (like contractors and municipal agencies) is crucial to resolving conflicts and keeping projects on track. Staying updated on evolving technologies and maintaining thorough documentation can also help mitigate risks and support successful project delivery.

What is the difference between Subsurface Utility Engineering Department Manager vs Subsurface Utility Engineer?

AspectSubsurface Utility Engineering Department ManagerSubsurface Utility Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in civil engineering or related field, with management experienceRequires a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, geotechnical engineering, or related field, with technical certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentOversees teams, manages projects, and coordinates with clients in office and field settingsPerforms field investigations, utility locating, data collection, and analysis
Industry UsageUsed in project management, planning, and oversight roles within utility and civil engineering firmsHands-on technical role focused on utility detection, mapping, and data interpretation

The main difference is that the Subsurface Utility Engineering Department Manager oversees utility projects and manages teams, while the Subsurface Utility Engineer focuses on technical fieldwork and utility detection. Both roles require relevant engineering credentials, but the manager has additional leadership responsibilities.

What cities are hiring for Subsurface Utility Engineering Department Manager jobs?

Cities with the most Subsurface Utility Engineering Department Manager job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Subsurface Utility Engineering Department Manager jobs?

For Subsurface Utility Engineering Department Manager jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Subsurface Utility Engineering Department Manager job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $146,868 per year, or $70.6 per hour.

Subsurface Utility Engineering Division Mgr

Orlando, FL • On-site

Agile Utility Partners
See more jobs at Agile Utility Partnersexternal

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Subsurface Utility Engineering Division Mgr

Full Time Management Orlando, FL, US

9 days ago Requisition ID: 1294

Job Summary

The Subsurface Utility Engineering Division Manager which is part of our GroundHawk Division (https://www.groundhawk.com/) is responsible for leading and overseeing all aspects of division operations in subsurface utility engineering, private locating, CCTV video pipe inspection and vacuum excavation. Including strategic planning, team leadership, financial performance, and client relationship management. This role ensures alignment with the company’s mission and objectives while driving operational efficiency, project execution, and business growth. The Division Manager plays a critical role in developing staff, optimizing resources, ensuring regulatory compliance, and delivering high-quality results that contribute to overall organizational success.

Agile Underground Services offers a great benefit package for our team members including competitive pay, excellent medical, dental, vision and life insurance as well as immediate 401(k) participation & matching and Paid Time Off. If you are passionate about making a difference, consider joining our talented, diverse team

Job Functions

  • Establish goals and objectives for the department that aligns with the company’s overall mission
  • Lead, motivate, and develop a team of employees to achieve departmental goals
  • Plan, coordinate, and oversee the overall work of the department
  • Organize and manage the work and schedules of Project Managers
  • Directly contribute to and support strategic growth initiatives
  • Lead and participate in EOS meetings and processes

Operational Oversight

  • Oversee department performance to ensure goals and objectives are achieved
  • Maintain overall responsibility for project progress and timeliness
  • Review project reports to ensure projects are on schedule and within budget
  • Guide Project Managers on implementing company initiatives and policies
  • Create and implement SOPs to enhance production and QA/QC processes
  • Allocate departmental resources to optimize productivity and return on investment (ROI)

Financial & Performance Management

  • Participate in budget development and allocation of funds
  • Analyze department utilization and profitability
  • Assess and report department progress to the Leadership Team
  • Actively participate in contract review and approval processes
  • Mitigate risk within the division through proactive planning and oversight

Client & Business Development

  • Serve as the company representative in networking events, professional organizations, and the community
  • Maintain responsibility for client satisfaction, management, and growth
  • Generate additional business opportunities and expand client relationships
  • Develop and implement client retention strategies, including cross-selling services
  • Build and maintain strong, trusting client relationships
  • Participate in the proposal development and writing process

People Development & Culture

  • Provide staff training, mentoring, and professional development opportunities
  • Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement
  • Support employee growth through coaching and performance management
  • Encourage ongoing professional development, including licensure and continuing education

Compliance & Industry Engagement

  • Ensure compliance with federal, state, local, contractual, and company standards and regulations
  • Maintain awareness of industry trends and market conditions
  • Promote adherence to best practices across all operations
  • Strong technical background in one or more of the following: SUE, private utility locating, CCTV video pipe inspection, GIS, or vacuum excavation
  • Strong leadership and team management capabilities
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Strategic thinking and decision-making abilities
  • Financial acumen and budget management experience
  • Strong organizational and time-management skills
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively
  • Customer-focused mindset with strong relationship-building skills
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and business systems (ERP/CRM)
  • Problem-solving and analytical thinking skills

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, operations, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
  • 3+ years of leadership or management experience, preferably in operations or project-based environments
  • Demonstrated experience in managing teams and driving performance
  • Proven track record in financial oversight, budgeting, and resource allocation
  • Experience with project management practices and tools
  • Strong understanding of compliance, risk management, and quality standards
  • Ability to lead in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
  • Experience participating in strategic planning and executing growth initiatives
  • Professional Engineer in a southeastern state(s) is a plus
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