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Subsurface Utility Engineering Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

PCL Construction

Geotechnical Risk Manager

Tempe, AZ · On-site

Environmental and demolition-related subsurface data. * Identify gaps, inconsistencies, and ... Underground utility and large-diameter pipe installation. Trenching, tunneling, and shaft ...

WSP

Associate Geotechnical Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site

The ideal candidate will have an educational background in engineering fundamentals, with an ... GIS data, subsurface information, maps, geotechnical data, and other matrices for project ...

WSP

Associate Geotechnical Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site

The ideal candidate will have an educational background in engineering fundamentals, with an ... GIS data, subsurface information, maps, geotechnical data, and other matrices for project ...

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All JobsSubsurface Utility Engineering JobsSubsurface Utility Engineering Jobs in Arizona

Subsurface Utility Engineering information

See Arizona salary details

$32.6K

$90.2K

$155.6K

How much do subsurface utility engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for subsurface utility engineering in Arizona is $90,188.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,600.00 and $110,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Subsurface Utility Engineering vs Utility Locator?

AspectSubsurface Utility EngineeringUtility Locator
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications like SUE Level I-IVTraining in utility detection, often no formal engineering degree
Work EnvironmentDesign, planning, and coordination for construction projectsFieldwork, locating underground utilities on-site
Industry UsageUsed in civil engineering, construction, infrastructure projectsPrimarily in construction, excavation, and utility companies

Subsurface Utility Engineering involves detailed analysis, design, and management of underground utilities, often requiring engineering credentials. Utility Locators focus on field detection and marking underground utilities, typically with specialized training. While both roles are essential for safe construction, SUE provides comprehensive planning, whereas utility locators perform the critical task of locating utilities on-site.

What is Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE)?

Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) is a specialized branch of civil engineering focused on the identification, mapping, and management of underground utilities such as water, gas, electric, and telecommunications. SUE professionals use a combination of surveying, geophysical methods, and records research to locate and document these utilities before construction or excavation projects begin. This process helps prevent costly damages, improves safety, and ensures more efficient project planning by reducing the risk of unexpected utility conflicts. SUE is increasingly important for urban development and infrastructure maintenance.

What engineering jobs pay $500,000?

In subsurface utility engineering, high-paying roles such as senior geotechnical engineers, project managers, or specialized consultants can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and leadership responsibilities. These positions often require advanced technical skills, industry experience, and sometimes involve managing large projects or teams.

What are some common challenges faced by Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) professionals when coordinating with construction and design teams?

SUE professionals often encounter challenges in ensuring accurate and up-to-date utility data is communicated to construction and design teams. Discrepancies between existing records and actual field conditions can lead to design changes, project delays, or safety risks. Effective coordination requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to interpret complex utility maps and geophysical data. Regular meetings and clear documentation help bridge gaps between SUE findings and project requirements, supporting safer and more efficient project execution.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Subsurface Utility Engineer, and why are they important?

To excel in Subsurface Utility Engineering, a strong background in civil engineering, surveying, and utility mapping—often with a relevant engineering degree and licensure—is essential. Familiarity with ground-penetrating radar (GPR), electromagnetic locating devices, CAD software, and GIS systems is typically required, along with certifications like ASCE 38 or NULCA. Excellent analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication with multidisciplinary teams are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate utility detection, risk mitigation, and the successful integration of utility data into infrastructure projects.

What does a subsurface utility engineer do?

A subsurface utility engineer (SUE) identifies, maps, and assesses underground utilities to prevent conflicts during construction projects. They use specialized tools like ground-penetrating radar and utility locators, and often work closely with engineers and construction teams to ensure accurate utility data and safe excavation practices.

What is the highest paying job for EE?

In electrical engineering, high-paying roles include systems engineer, engineering manager, and power systems director, often requiring advanced degrees and certifications. Specialized fields like aerospace, semiconductor design, and energy management tend to offer the highest salaries for electrical engineers.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

In the field of Subsurface Utility Engineering, senior-level engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills, and professional certifications can reach or exceed a $300,000 annual salary, especially in high-demand regions or consulting roles. These positions often require advanced knowledge of geotechnical analysis, project management, and the use of specialized tools like GIS and CAD software.
What are the most commonly searched types of Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Arizona are:
What are popular job titles related to Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Arizona? For Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Subsurface Utility Engineering job openings:
Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs near you
Geotechnical Risk Manager

Geotechnical Risk Manager

PCL Construction

Tempe, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago

PCL Construction rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

The future you want is within reach. Let's build it together.
At PCL Construction, Inc., part of the PCL Family of Companies (PCL), we don't just build projects-we build opportunities, careers and communities. We are 100% employee-owned, every employee has a stake in our success, and that shared commitment drives how we work, grow and lead in the construction industry.
We're a team of builders who care deeply about what we create and who we build it with. That includes you. We are not only investing in what's next in construction, we are investing in what's next for your career.
The Geotechnical Risk Manager is responsible for all geotechnical-related scope during preconstruction, providing technical leadership, risk evaluation, and cost certainty for site work and underground construction. This role serves as the subject matter expert for interpreting geotechnical information and translating subsurface conditions into accurate estimates, means and methods, productivity assumptions, and risk mitigation strategies. The position plays a critical role in managing geotechnical risk across estimating, planning, and work packaging to protect schedule, cost, and constructability.
Why Choose PCL?
Choose a career with rewards that matter. PCL's total rewards are designed to support your growth, well-being and future success-because when you succeed, we all do.
Our offerings could include:
  • Employee ownership opportunities that build long-term value
  • Annual discretionary performance bonuses
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Industry-leading medical, dental and vision benefits
  • Prescription drug coverage and telemedicine services
  • Life, AD&D and disability insurance
  • Paid parental leave and family care support
  • HSA or FSA for healthcare, dependent care and transportation
  • Mental health and wellness support, including Employee Assistance Programs
  • Career growth pathways, leadership development and mentorship programs
  • Access to world-class training through PCL's College of Construction and professional development courses
  • Ongoing opportunities to learn new skills, explore different roles and grow your career across sectors and regions

Here's how a Geotechnical Risk Manager for PCL Construction, Inc. within Civil West contributes to our team:
Responsibilities
  • Geotechnical Due Diligence & Interpretation
    • Lead the review, intrepretation, and qualification of: Geotechnical, geologic, and geophysical reports. Historical borings and as-built records. Environmental and demolition-related subsurface data.
    • Identify gaps, inconsistencies, and ambiguities in soils reports and coordinate requests for clarification, supplemental investigations, or risk allowances.
    • Develop clear geotechnical narratives and assumptions for estimates and proposals.

    Preconstruction Estimating & Means and Methods
    • Develop estimating approaches and construction means and methods for: Earthwork and mass excavation. Deep foundations and shoring systems. Underground utility and large-diameter pipe installation. Trenching, tunneling, and shaft construction. Demolition with geotechnical influence. Dewatering systems (temporary and permanent). Ground improvement techiques (e.g., over-excavation, stabilization, grouting, soil mixing).
    • Establish production rates, crew compositions, sequencing logic, and equipment assumptions based on subsurface conditions.
    • Support risk-based estimating, including probabilistic cost impacts where appropriate.

    Risk Identification & Management
    • Identify, quantify, and actively manage geotechnical risks affecting: cost, schedule, safety and constructability.
    • Develop geotechnical risk registers and mitigation plans during preconstruction.
    • Contribute to contingency, allowances, and escalation decisions related to subsurface uncertainity.
    • Support qualifications, exclusions, and clarifications tied to geotechnical risk in proposals.

    Design & Stakeholder Coordination
    • Collaborate with designers, third-party geotechnical engineers, and speciality subcontractors to: validate contructability of proposed designs. Influence design development to reduce construction risk.
    • Support Alternative Technical Concepts (ATCs) and value engineering related to geotechnical solutions.
    • Participate in owner, designer, and risk review meetings as the geotechnical solutions.
    • Participate in owner, designer, and risk review meetings as the geotechnical authority.

    Transistion to Construction
    • Supprot handoff from preconstruction to operations with: Clear documentation of geotechnical assumptions and risks. Defined risk ownership strategies. Constructability recommendations.
    • Provide consultative support to project teams during early construction as needed.

Qualifications
  • Required:
    • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Construction Engineering, or related discipline.
    • Minimum 10-15 years of experience in heavy civil construction, geotechnical engineering, or major underground/site work projects.
    • Demonstrated experience with preconstruction, estimating, and risk management.
    • Strong understanding of: subsurface variability and uncertainity. Construction productivity impacts due to soil and groundwater conditions.
    • Ability to translate technical geotechnical data into practical construction and cost decisions.

    Preferred:
    • Professional Engineer (PE) license.
    • Experience on water/wastewater, transportation, or large-scale infrastructure projects.
    • Background spanning both design and construction environments.
    • Experience iwth alternative delivery (DB, CMAR, P#).

    Core Competencies:
    • Geotechnical risk identification and mitigation.
    • Heavy civil and underground construction methods.
    • Cost and schedule risk management.
    • Constructability analysis.
    • Clear technical communication with non-technical audiences.
    • Leadership and cross-discipline collaboration.

Your Work Has Purpose Here
PCL projects are where life happens, where communities connect, careers begin, and progress is made. Regardless of the type of project, we are building something bigger: a future that's inclusive, resilient and full of opportunity.
At PCL Construction, Inc., we are committed to creating a workplace where everyone belongs. We value the diverse experiences, identities and perspectives our employees bring. Employment decisions are based on merit, potential and the drive to make a difference, regardless of race, gender, age, ability or background.
We know everyone's needs are different, if you require accommodation during the application process, please contact careers@pcl.com and include the position and location of interest.
Company: PCL Construction, Inc.
Primary Location: Tempe, Arizona
Job Title: Geotechnical Risk Manager
Requisition ID: 12540

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