Subsurface Utility Engineering Jobs in California

About KPFF:

KPFF has been an industry leader in civil and structural engineering for over 60 years. At KPFF, our purpose is to engineer opportunities. We focus on solving problems, delivering excellence, helping our communities, and enabling the growth and creativity of our people, clients, and profession. We realize sustainable success at KPFF by respecting and empowering personal potential. 

The Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Lead manages field crews responsible for locating, designating, and mapping underground utilities. This role serves as the field authority for SUE investigations and ensures all work is completed according to project requirements, quality standards, and ASCE 38-22 guidelines. The SUE Lead oversees field operations, coordinates with project managers, and ensures accurate utility documentation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise SUE field crews performing utility designation, utility locating field services, and mapping.
• Operate advanced utility detection equipment including:
  • Electromagnetic locators
  • Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)
  • GPS / Total Station systems
• Interpret utility records, plans, and GIS data prior to field investigation.
• Ensure accurate field documentation including sketches, digital data collection, and reports.
• Coordinate with project managers, survey/sue teams, engineers, and contractors.
• Conduct quality assurance checks to ensure compliance with project and ASCE 38-22 standards.
• Manage daily crew activities including safety briefings, equipment readiness, and scheduling.
• Train and mentor junior staff such as SUE Assistants and Technicians Level II/III.
• Maintain project productivity while ensuring safety and accuracy.
• Communicate field findings and potential conflicts to project stakeholders.

Skills

• Leadership and crew supervision
• Advanced utility locating techniques
• Field data management and QA/QC
• Problem solving and decision making
• Communication with engineers, contractors, and project managers

Work Environment

• Primarily outdoor field work in transportation corridors, construction sites, and urban infrastructure areas
• Regular travel to project sites
• May involve night work or traffic control operations
• Occasional lifting of equipment up to 50 lbs

Required

• High school diploma or GED
• 5+ years of experience in SUE, utility locating, or surveying/mapping
• Experience operating GPR and electromagnetic locating equipment
• Valid driver's license with clean driving record
• Strong leadership and field coordination experience

Preferred

• Associate's degree or coursework in surveying, civil engineering, or geomatics
• Advanced knowledge of ASCE 38-22 SUE standards
• OSHA 30 certification
• Experience with GIS, CAD data collection, or survey software
• Utility coordination or subsurface mapping experience

What is KPFF?

KPFF is a multi-office, multi-discipline engineering firm. We're driven by a commitment to our core values of Excellence, Trust, Relationships, Stability, and Passion; defining our professional practice, how we are organized and our commitment to our clients and employees.

We partner with the world's most thoughtful professionals to engineer extraordinary places.

KPFF offers excellent benefits including medical and life insurance, vacation/sick/holiday pay, three percent 401k contributions with no matching requirements, bonus compensation, flexible work schedule, career development programs, and much more.

Why KPFF?

Mentorship & Development: Through KPFF's Forefront Education Program, you'll receive unparalleled mentorship from seasoned professionals, empowering you to excel in your career from day one. Thrive in a setting that values your development and independence, where your ideas are welcomed, and your contributions make a real impact.

Relationship Building: At our core, we focus on forging meaningful connections. By prioritizing trust and stability, we create lasting relationships with our partners and clients that stand the test of time.

Supportive Environment: We cultivate growth in all aspects of your life in a supportive environment that values your well-being. From promoting a healthy lifestyle to organizing social activities, we strive to create a balanced and fulfilling workplace.

Compensation: The base salary for this role is competitive and will be determined based on the candidate's experience, education, and skills. The expected Salary for this position is $60,000 - $75,000. Additionally, we offer performance-based bonuses to recognize and reward outstanding contributions in each Reporting Center. During the interview process, we'll provide detailed information and address any questions you may have about the overall compensation package and benefits.

KPFF Consulting Engineers is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

KPFF Consulting Engineers participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

KPFF Consulting Engineers is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ethnicity, national origin, religion, marital status, sex/gender (including sexual orientation or gender identity), pregnancy, veteran status, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, or any other protected basis.