ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Subsurface Utility Engineering Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

TERRACON

Driller/Exploration Team Member IV

Gahanna, OH · On-site

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

... added subsurface information and engineering and scientific expertise to solving our clients ... Perform surveying, site reconnaissance, and utility clearance tasks. * Drive all forms of drilling ...

NiSource

Senior Project Estimator

Columbus, OH · On-site

... subsurface conditions). * Supports project gating and capital planning by providing validated ... engineering, or project controls within gas utilities or similar infrastructure sectors.

AECOM

Civil Engineer (PE)

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$81K - $101K/yr

Familiar with utility planning and abandonment procedures. * Familiar with subsurface investigations. * Familiar with standard engineering practices, construction, and operation techniques ...

AECOM

Civil Engineer (PE)

Cleveland, OH

Familiar with utility planning and abandonment procedures. * Familiar with subsurface investigations. * Familiar with standard engineering practices, construction, and operation techniques ...

GAI Consultants

Geotechnical Engineer 3

Canton, OH · On-site

Develop subsurface investigations, monitoring programs, and coordinate geologic site ... S. Engineering Certification/Licensure * Professional Engineer (P.E.) License, reciprocity in ...

GAI Consultants

Geotechnical Engineer 3

Canton, OH · On-site

Develop subsurface investigations, monitoring programs, and coordinate geologic site ... S. Engineering Certification/Licensure * Professional Engineer (P.E.) License, reciprocity in ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSubsurface Utility Engineering JobsSubsurface Utility Engineering Jobs in Ohio

Subsurface Utility Engineering information

See Ohio salary details

$33.3K

$92K

$158.8K

How much do subsurface utility engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for subsurface utility engineering in Ohio is $92,008.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $112,700.00 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 (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 popular job titles related to Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Ohio? For Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Ohio look for? The top searched job categories for Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Ohio are:
Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Subsurface Utility Engineering job openings in Ohio as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,008 per year, or $44.2 per hour.
Driller/Exploration Team Member IV

Driller/Exploration Team Member IV

TERRACON

Gahanna, OH • On-site

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Terracon rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 112 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 57 rated business consultants

Job description

Exploration Team Members (ETMs) will perform subsurface exploration duties using conventional drilling or in-situ testing techniques. Drill methods may include auger drilling, mud rotary drilling, air rotary drilling, and diamond bit coring techniques. In-situ testing techniques may include cone penetration testing (CPT), pressure meter testing, and rock dilatometer testing. Work may also include the installation of instrumentation such as piezometers, monitor wells and inclinometers. Work as part of a multiple person team on projects. ETMs will perform daily tasks including survey and locate drilling points; conduct site reconnaissance; load/unload tooling, materials and samples; classify soil and rock samples; perform routine maintenance and basic repairs on drilling equipment, prepare internal (daily field forms) and external (DOT Logs) paperwork.
Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace. Terracon was recognized as the #1 firm in Asbestos and Lead Abatement.

Terracon's vision of "Together, we are best at people" is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.
Innovation and hands-on practice come together in our geotechnical consulting services. We provide geotechnical services nationwide for a wide range of projects, drawing on six decades of historical geotechnical data, a fleet of more than 200 drill rigs, 140 accredited laboratories, and thousands of employees to quickly organize or capture site data wherever projects are located.From AI-supported solutions and predictive technologies to geophysics and traditional exploration, we deliver precision, value-added subsurface information and engineering and scientific expertise to solving our clients' challenges and achieve their goals for project sustainability, quality, and efficiency.
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum 5-years' experience.
  • Proficient in geotechnical and/or environmental drilling methods.
  • A valid driver's license with acceptable violation history may be required.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Many states require specific driller/well installation licensure. Where applicable, such licensure is required.

Required Qualifications:

  • Ability to obtain a DOT Medical Card within first 30 days of employment.

The employee will be expected to perform the following tasks:

  • Demonstrate an ability to problem solve and implement solutions on moderately to very complex problems with guidance from management or other senior level ETMs. 
  • Operate a geotechnical drill rig to advance boreholes to all depths required in their region.
  • Lead a 2 or 3 man drill crew and support their development in all tasks associated with drilling operations.
  • Be proficient in all drilling methods common to their region.o Install instrumentation and monitoring wells. 
  • Perform routine repairs and maintenance. 
  • Perform surveying, site reconnaissance, and utility clearance tasks.
  • Drive all forms of drilling equipment to and from project locations.
  • Inspect and complete routine maintenance of equipment.
  • Support project preparation and pre-task planning. 
  • Train junior staff in drilling methods.
  • Follow safety rules, guidelines and standards for all projects. Participate in pre-task planning. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
  • Be responsible for maintaining quality standards on all projects.

What Terracon employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply