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Subsurface Utility Engineering Jobs in California

langan

Land Survey CAD Technician

San Jose, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Langan provides expert land development engineering and environmental consulting services for major ... Support the survey crew in obtaining invert and subsurface utility information; * Exposure to drone ...

langan

Land Survey CAD Technician

Los Angeles, CA

$30 - $40/hr

Langan provides expert land development engineering and environmental consulting services for major ... Support the survey crew in obtaining invert and subsurface utility information; * Exposure to drone ...

langan

Land Survey CAD Technician

Irvine, CA

$30 - $40/hr

Langan provides expert land development engineering and environmental consulting services for major ... Support the survey crew in obtaining invert and subsurface utility information; * Exposure to drone ...

langan

Land Survey CAD Technician

Oakland, CA

$30 - $40/hr

Langan provides expert land development engineering and environmental consulting services for major ... Support the survey crew in obtaining invert and subsurface utility information; * Exposure to drone ...

langan

Land Survey CAD Technician

Riverside, CA

$30 - $40/hr

Langan provides expert land development engineering and environmental consulting services for major ... Support the survey crew in obtaining invert and subsurface utility information; * Exposure to drone ...

langan

Land Survey CAD Technician

San Francisco, CA

$30 - $40/hr

Langan provides expert land development engineering and environmental consulting services for major ... Support the survey crew in obtaining invert and subsurface utility information; * Exposure to drone ...

SOCOTEC

Senior Staff Geotechnical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

... engineering analyses for commercial, residential, industrial, and public works projects. * Plan and coordinate subsurface exploration programs, including boring layouts and utility clearance ...

NV5

Staff Engineer

Irvine, CA · Hybrid

Utility Services; Environmental Health Sciences; Buildings & Program Management; and Geospatial ... subsurface exploration techniques, conducts engineering analysis, prepares reports, and provides ...

NV5

Staff Geotechnical Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

Utility Services; Environmental Health Sciences; Buildings & Program Management; and Geospatial ... subsurface exploration techniques, conducts engineering analysis, prepares reports, and provides ...

NV5

Staff Geotechnical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

Utility Services; Environmental Health Sciences; Buildings & Program Management; and Geospatial ... subsurface exploration techniques, conducts engineering analysis, prepares reports, and provides ...

NV5

Staff Geotechnical Engineer

Irvine, CA · Hybrid

Utility Services; Environmental Health Sciences; Buildings & Program Management; and Geospatial ... subsurface exploration techniques, conducts engineering analysis, prepares reports, and provides ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsSubsurface Utility Engineering JobsSubsurface Utility Engineering Jobs in California

Subsurface Utility Engineering information

See California salary details

$34.5K

$95.5K

$164.8K

How much do subsurface utility engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for subsurface utility engineering in California is $95,512.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,600.00 and $116,900.00 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in California? The most popular types of Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in California? For Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs? Cities in California with the most Subsurface Utility Engineering job openings:
Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Subsurface Utility Engineering job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 88% In-person, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,512 per year, or $45.9 per hour.
Land Survey CAD Technician

Land Survey CAD Technician

langan

San Jose, CA • On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Langan rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 368 rated engineering

Job description

Langan provides expert land development engineering and environmental consulting services for major developers, renewable energy producers, energy companies, corporations, healthcare systems, colleges/universities, and large infrastructure programs throughout the U.S. and around the world. Our employees collaborate seamlessly among 40+ offices and gain valuable hands-on experience that fosters career growth. Langan culture is entrepreneurial from advancing innovative technical solutions, to participating in robust training and knowledge sharing, to making progressive change within the communities we live and work.
Consistently ranked among the top ten "Best Firms to Work For" and Engineering News-Record's top 50 firms worldwide, Langan attracts and retains the best talent in the industry. Employees thrive at Langan, a firm that embraces and promotes diversity, equity and inclusion; prioritizes wellbeing, health and safety; encourages volunteerism and philanthropy; offers workplace flexibility, along with carbon neutral office spaces; and empowers individuals to contribute their skills and knowledge to make impactful contributions.
Job Summary
Langan is seeking a Land Survey Technician to join its collaborative team in California. This individual will serve a key function in providing support with a variety land development projects, collecting field data and information related to the preparation of survey maps and CAD files. In this role, you will have the opportunity to work with commercial, retail and residential properties within a technologically progressive environment.
Job Responsibilities
  • Recovery of survey control and monumentation, boundary, topographic and utility surveys, construction layout, and photo documentation of the project area;
  • Support the survey crew in obtaining invert and subsurface utility information;
  • Exposure to drone and scanning technologies;
  • Assist with office tasks including, but not limited to CAD drafting, processing Survey field data, ongoing communication with Survey crews to assist with data download and preparation of field research materials, deed and map research, and filing;
  • Maintain survey equipment and initiate repairs when necessary;
  • Remain current on surveying practices, guidelines, and best management practices; attend internal training and external lectures to expand knowledge and skills; and
  • Recommend new approaches and ideas that continuously improve efficiency and services performed.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma;
  • 2+ years of related experience;
  • Advanced AutoCAD skills including experience with C3D and Survey interface. Experience with Carlson software is a plus;
  • Experience with survey instrumentation and data collectors is desired, but not mandatory;
  • Willingness to work away from office at various project sites when necessary. Could be for extended periods of time depending on locations of assignments and participating offices;
  • Excellent verbal communication skills;
  • Strong attention to detail with excellent analytical skills;
  • Ability to effectively work independently and in a team environment; and
  • Possess reliable transportation for job site visits and a valid driver's license in good standing.

Langan provides a rich array of programs and benefits to help its employees advance their careers and enhance the quality of their lives. Our comprehensive compensation package includes: full-time employment company paid medical, dental, and vision coverage; life insurance, short- and long-term disability insurance, and paid pregnancy disability leave; 401(k)/Roth with company match; paid time off including parental and military leave; employee referral and professional license bonuses; and educational reimbursement.
Langan offers employee resource groups; flexible work schedules; extensive training; wellness programs; buddy and mentoring programs; and much more!
Langan is an affirmative action / equal opportunity employer committed to building a team that represents and values diverse backgrounds. Langan promotes a positive work environment of inclusion, where we respect each other's differences and recognize that a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment is a key to our success.
Certain US jurisdictions require Langan to include an estimate of salary or hourly ranges. The estimated range for this role is: $30.00 - $40.00. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as related work experience, location, market conditions, education/training, certifications and other credentials, as well as applicable knowledge and skills. Certain roles may be eligible for overtime and participation in the firm's annual bonus and performance review program. Bonuses are discretionary and based on individual job performance and the profitability of the firm. Employees are also eligible to receive up to 20 days of paid vacation time, 10 days of paid sick time and 10 paid holidays throughout the year. Eligibility and actual paid time off may vary based on local law and factors such as hours worked, related work experience and level.

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