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Subsurface Utility Engineering Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

T2 Utility Engineers

Project Manager

Palatine, IL · On-site

T2ue helps clients manage the complexity of existing utilities with our professional and comprehensive Subsurface Utility Engineering, Utility Coordination, and Surveying services. Our mission is to ...

Quanta Services

Engineering Specialist

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

HBK Engineering, LLC is a fully licensed, professional engineering design firm headquartered in ... HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support ...

HBK Engineering, LLC

Design Lead

Oak Brook, IL

$103K - $136K/yr

Design engineering systems in compliance with specifications, codes, and client requirements for overhead and subsurface utility projects. * Apply broad knowledge of engineering principles and ...

HBK Engineering, LLC

Design Lead

Chicago, IL

$105K - $139K/yr

Design engineering systems in compliance with specifications, codes, and client requirements for overhead and subsurface utility projects. * Apply broad knowledge of engineering principles and ...

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All JobsSubsurface Utility Engineering JobsSubsurface Utility Engineering Jobs in Illinois

Subsurface Utility Engineering information

See Illinois salary details

$33.9K

$93.8K

$161.8K

How much do subsurface utility engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for subsurface utility engineering in Illinois is $93,782.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,300.00 and $114,800.00 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 Illinois? The most popular types of Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Illinois? For Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Subsurface Utility Engineering job openings:
Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs near you

Subsurface Utility Engineer

Prairie Engineers

Springfield, IL • On-site

$30 - $36/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Launch your civil engineering career with Prairie Engineers at the forefront of subsurface detection technology and join one of the fastest-growing specialties in infrastructure.

We're a team looking to make a lasting impact and want people who embrace challenges, drive change, and help shape our collective future. If that's you, let's connect! Prairie Engineers is a growing and progressive business with opportunities for career advancement, a diverse range of clients, and varied projects across the nation. This position includes occasional travel throughout the U.S. while, in office, will analyze subsurface data and turn it into actionable engineering deliverables - technical reports, conflict analyses, and utility mapping plans. Ideally, you will be located within one hour of the greater St. Louis MO region.

If you're a Jr. Engineer who likes problem-solving, technology, and seeing immediate impact on projects, becoming a part of our SUE team is a great place to start your career.

What you Need:
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from an ABETaccredited program.
  • Licensure: Passed FE exam or will within the first 6 months of employment.
  • Experience: 02 years of experience in civil engineering, focused on subsurface utility engineering (SUE) or utility design. More experience definitely a plus.
  • Software: Microsoft Office Suite, CAD and/or GIS tools (ArcGIS, QGIS, AutoCAD, Microstation), ability to quickly learn and understand new software.
  • Travel: Able to travel and work nights/weekends as project schedules require.
  • Safety: Valid driver's license with insurable driving record; able to pass background check, preemployment and random drug screens; able to walk equivalent of several miles daily and lift up to 80 lbs. consistently.
    • What you will Do:
  • Contribute to the collection, interpretation, and analysis of subsurface utility data using advanced geophysical and survey technology.
  • Develop detailed utility maps and engineering drawings using AutoCAD, Microstation, and GIS systems.
  • Ensure the accuracy and integrity of deliverables through thorough quality review.
  • Support the development of SUE work plans and technical reports for complex civil infrastructure projects.
  • Solve underground conflicts and coordinate solutions in partnership with project teams, clients, and utility owners.
  • Uphold a strong culture of safety in both field and office environments.
    • How you Align:
  • People Focused: Professional, respectful, and teamoriented, with a strong work ethic and the ability to collaborate internally and externally.
  • Can Do Attitude: Positively engages with challenges, facilitates problemsolving, and takes initiative to deliver solutions.
  • Responsive: Communicates openly, proactively, and promptly, with excellent verbal and written communication skills.

    • Salary range $30.00-$36.00 per hour determined by education, experience, licensure, and knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant, as well as internal and external benchmarking.

    Check out the Careers page at prairieengineers.com for details on the generous benefits package available, including 401(k), medical insurance on day one, professional development and to find out why employees chose to join our team. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, genetic information (including family medical history), or any other legally protected status.

    Potential candidates for this position should submit cover letter and resume. We are interested in every qualified candidate who is authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. However, we are not able to sponsor current or future visas for this position.

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