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Subsurface Utility Engineering Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Driller/Exploration Team Member II

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

... utility clearance taskso Drive all forms of drilling equipment to and from project locations.o Work ... added subsurface information and engineering and scientific expertise to solving our clients ...

Driller/Exploration Team Member IV

Parma, OH

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

... added subsurface information and engineering and scientific expertise to solving our clients ... utility clearance tasks. oDrive all forms of drilling equipment to and from project locations ...

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 ...

Driller/Exploration Team Member IV

Gahanna, OH · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

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

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 ...

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

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

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

$150 - $250/hr

You will collaborate deeply on a day‑to‑day basis with EMEA sales, field engineering, and GTM ... Expert‑level domain knowledge in one or more of the following areas: subsurface intelligence ...

Showing results 41-52

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 Aug 22, 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 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 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.

How much do subsurface utility engineers make?

Subsurface Utility Engineers typically earn a median annual salary between $60,000 and $90,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in regions with high demand for utility mapping and infrastructure projects.

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:

Infographic showing various Subsurface Utility Engineering job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,008 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Driller/Exploration Team Member II

TERRACON

Cincinnati, OH • On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Terracon rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 120 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

51st of 72 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.
Responsibilities
  • The employee will be expected to perform the following tasks:
  • o Operate a geotechnical drill rig to advance shallow boreholes in soil.o Oversee a 2-man drill crew in all tasks associated with drilling operations.o Install instrumentation and monitoring wells.o Perform routine repairs and maintenance. o Perform basic surveying, site reconnaissance, and utility clearance taskso Drive all forms of drilling equipment to and from project locations.o Work to independently inspect and complete routine maintenance of equipment.
  • 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.

  • Qualifications
    • High school diploma or equivalent.
    • Minimum 1-year experience.
    • 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.

    About Us
    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.
    About the Team
    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.

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