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Subsurface Utility Engineering Jobs in North Carolina

ESP Associates

Subsurface Utility Technician

Hendersonville, NC · On-site

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

ESP is a multi-discipline engineering design and consulting firm providing our clients with civil ... subsurface utility engineering, and construction engineering inspection. Through years of dedicated ...

McKim & Creed

SUE Technician III (Utility Locator)

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

A SUE Technician III is responsible for the operation and management of a Utility Location and Subsurface Utility Engineering "SUE" field crew. Must accurately and efficiently collect field data ...

Universal Engineering Sciences

Utility Locator

Pineville, NC · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Utilize various geophysical equipment such as Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), Electromagnetic Induction (EM/EMI), Magnetics, as well as GNSS equipment to conduct Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE ...

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Subsurface Utility Engineering information

See North Carolina salary details

$31.8K

$88K

$151.8K

How much do subsurface utility engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for subsurface utility engineering in North Carolina is $87,953.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,000.00 and $107,700.00 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?

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 common challenges faced by subsurface utility engineers 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?

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 locating equipment, and often hold certifications such as the Utility Engineering Certification (UEC). Their work involves detailed data analysis and coordination with construction teams to ensure safety and accuracy.
What are the most commonly searched types of Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in North Carolina? The most popular types of Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in North Carolina are:
What are popular job titles related to Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in North Carolina? For Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in North Carolina, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in North Carolina look for? The top searched job categories for Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in North Carolina are:
What cities in North Carolina are hiring for Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs? Cities in North Carolina with the most Subsurface Utility Engineering job openings:
Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Subsurface Utility Engineering job openings in North Carolina as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 93% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,953 per year, or $42.3 per hour.

Subsurface Utility Locator

Synerfac Technical Staffing

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Our client is seeking an experienced Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Technician to support utility locating, mapping, and field investigation projects throughout the Raleigh area. This role is ideal for a detail-oriented field professional with hands-on experience in utility designation, data collection, and interpreting underground infrastructure. The position offers the opportunity to work alongside survey and engineering teams on a variety of transportation, municipal, and infrastructure projects. Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Technician Responsibilities - Perform field utility investigations and utility designation using electromagnetic locating equipment and ground penetrating radar (GPR) - Collect and document accurate subsurface utility data for engineering and survey projects - Interpret utility markings, as-built drawings, and field conditions to identify underground infrastructure - Support survey crews and engineering teams with utility mapping and coordination efforts - Operate GPS and data collection equipment to record field information accurately - Prepare clear field notes, sketches, and documentation for project deliverables - Maintain safety standards and follow proper traffic control and utility locating procedures on active job sites - Coordinate with project managers, utility companies, contractors, and municipal representatives as needed - Travel to project sites throughout the region to support active field operations Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Technician Requirements: - 3+ years of experience in Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE), transportation style locating - Experience operating utility locating equipment - Valid drivers license and ability to drive company vehicle
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About Synerfac Technical Staffing

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Since 1987, Synerfac has served three groups, Our Clients, Our Candidates and Our Staff. We treat all three with equal importance because we recognize the synergy of success when one group succeeds, We all succeed. Synerfac is in the business of providing opportunities and adding value. We strive to create extraordinary experiences. For our clients we provide staffing services that enable them to focus on their core competencies which will add value to their businesses. For our employees we provide permanent and temporary assignments that complement their job skills and experience while providing professional and financial rewards. For our staff –we provide careers that are balanced, uplifting and carry the highest rewards by continually improving our business process. Our goal is to enhance the lives and enterprises of all those we touch to make them better off for having known us.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Cherry Hill, NJ, US

Social media

Twitter

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