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Subsurface Utility Engineering Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Lead Title Agent (Land)

Ely, IA · On-site

$80K - $84K/yr

Pioneer. TRC has long set the bar for clients who require more than just engineering, combining ... Broad knowledge of procedures used to acquire real property interests for public utility ...

Subsurface Utility Engineering information

See Iowa salary details

$32.9K

$90.9K

$156.9K

How much do subsurface utility engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for subsurface utility engineering in Iowa is $90,902.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,200.00 and $111,300.00 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 popular job titles related to Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Iowa? For Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Subsurface Utility Engineering job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,902 per year, or $43.7 per hour.
Lead Title Agent (Land)

Lead Title Agent (Land)

TRC Companies, Inc.

Ely, IA • On-site

$80K - $84K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

About Us
Groundbreaker. Game changer. Pioneer.
TRC has long set the bar for clients who require more than just engineering, combining science with the latest technology to devise innovative solutions that stand the test of time. From pipelines to power plants, roadways to reservoirs, schoolyards to security solutions, clients look to TRC for breakthrough thinking backed by the innovative follow-through of an industry leader.
TRC's professionals work with a broad range of commercial, industrial and government clients and the communities they serve. We deliver breakthrough solutions that address local needs -- so our clients can better succeed in an ever-changing world.
Working at TRC means tackling interesting, meaningful projects. We pride ourselves on our collaborative spirit, entrepreneurial zeal and agile corporate structure. We recognize that the expertise of our staff is our strongest asset, so we generously reward employees for successful performance and invest in their careers through training and the development of new skills and certifications.
Overview
The Lead Title Agent is responsible for researching, analyzing, and curating property ownership and title information to support land acquisition and right-of-way projects. This role ensures accurate identification of property interests, ownership, encumbrances, and other title-related matters critical to infrastructure, utility, and transportation projects.
The Title Agent works closely with project managers, land agents, attorneys, and clients to facilitate timely and compliant acquisition processes.
Responsibilities
The Lead Title Agent possesses an excellent working knowledge of all right of way disciplines, title, permitting, acquisition, documentation. He/she is very knowledgeable about property valuation, survey drawings and alignments sheets.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Oversee all right-of-way (ROW) and land documentation processes, providing technical guidance and support to document specialists and project teams.
  • Oversee the preparation and review of complex land documents such as easements, deeds, permits, licenses, and acquisition packages to ensure accuracy and compliance.
  • Perform comprehensive title research using public records, title plants, and online databases to determine property ownership and interests.
  • Analyze deeds, easements, plats, wills, court records, and other legal documents to establish chains of title.
  • Assist ROW Supervisor in providing guidance to ROW Agents.
  • Secure permission to enter properties from landowners and tenants.
  • While maintaining the ROW price policy, negotiate for ROW options, easements, fee interest, and curative documents as directed by the ROW Supervisor or as required by project documents and the acquisition policy. Assist in the development of a construction line from the conditions and/or restrictions placed on the ROW by the landowner and/or tenant.
  • Maintain a detailed diary containing the facts of each contact for every property owner and tenant on a project and prepare a detailed weekly activity report.
  • Maintain a detailed log of all payments.
  • Negotiate Damage Settlements as required.
  • Support all construction activities as required.
  • Document all ROW activities as required.
  • Adhere to project Safety Plan.

Qualifications
Associate's degree preferred or relevant experience
SR/WA or other IRWA Designation Notary Public
Experience is required in work related to right of way or real estate services provided to public organizations. Broad knowledge of procedures used to acquire real property interests for public utility/infrastructure projects including condemnation. Knowledgeable with laws and regulations involving real estate transactions and Eminent Domain.
Professional Experience:
Skills -- Technical:
* Experience as a ROW agent or related ROW position
* Proficient in Microsoft Office products, including spreadsheet and word processing
* Must be detail oriented and have excellent analytical and quantitative skills
* Requires specialized knowledge in the methods and techniques for performing Land Services activities. Must possess competent knowledge and skills in land description and terminology, surface and subsurface rights, ROW document analysis, and have excellent negotiation skills.
* Must be able to work alone, make decisions and use judgment while performing related activities.
* Creativity, foresight and mature judgment to identify and resolve business, technical and administrative related problems with ROW services.
Skills -- Communication:
* Must have strong verbal and written communication skills and be able to communicate clearly and concisely to prepare reports, specifications, applications, and correspondence.
Skills -- People:
* Able to interact with all levels of management and to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
* Commitment to customer satisfaction and the ability to work in team-oriented environment
Physical, Environmental, and Mental Requirements
* The employee must be able to lift and/or move up to 35 pounds. Employee is expected to use good judgment when lifting or moving office supplies and/or furniture and to seek assistance or wear back support appliances when appropriate. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus in use of computer monitor and other manual, task-related functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to sit, use hands and fingers, to handle, or feel objects, tools, controls. Reach with hands and arms, hear and talk. The employee is required to stand, walk, stoop, kneel or crouch.
Department/Location Specific Requirements and Comments
* Any other task that may be required during the performance of duties
* Ability to travel as dictated by job requirements
* This job will require the majority of work to be performed in a well-lighted, temperature-controlled office setting. Most activities require work to be performed at field locations, governmental agencies, corporate entities, and client offices. There are frequent interruptions during the workday for impromptu meetings.
Benefits*: TRC offers a competitive benefit package consisting of:
  • Medical, dental, vision, and disability insurance.
  • 401k package that includes both traditional and Roth IRA options and Company match.
  • Paid time off contingent upon full time or part time status and level of seniority (ranging from 15 to 25 days per year).
  • All full-time employees enjoy a minimum of 8 Paid Holidays per year.
  • TRC ensures that all employees, including those that work part-time, receive paid sick, family, and disability leave in accordance with the laws of their state of residence.

*These benefits are applicable to US employees depending on their employment status (full time, part time, or temporary). TRC offers jurisdiction specific benefit packages for International and Puerto Rico employees.
Compensation: In accordance with local law, the below salary range is applicable for the job and location associated with this requisition. Compensation will vary based upon experience, education, skill level, geographical location, and other compensable factors.
Other Compensation: Employee may be eligible for participation in the Company's annual Discretionary Bonus Program which is contingent on Company, Business Segment, and Individual performance against Key Performance Indicators which vary by year and employee.
Disclaimers
TRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. All employment decisions are made based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
The complete job description and application are available on TRC's career site.
TRC accepts applications for this position on an ongoing, rolling basis and reserves the right to cancel this posting at any time.
Salary Range
USD $80,600.00 - USD $84,500.00 /Yr.