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Subsurface Utility Engineering Jobs in Houston, TX

BinkleyBarfield DCCM

Designator (Tech) - SUE

Houston, TX · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Our subsurface utility engineering (SUE) group has a need for a Designator (Tech) to join their team. In this role you will be the onsite Designator for SUE project work. You will find and mark ...

DCCM INFRASTRUCTURE INC

Designator (Tech) - SUE

Houston, TX · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Our subsurface utility engineering (SUE) group has a need for a Designator (Tech) to join their team. In this role you will be the onsite Designator for SUE project work. You will find and mark ...

BinkleyBarfield DCCM

Designator - SUE

Houston, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Our subsurface utility engineering (SUE) group has a need for a Designator to join their team. In this role you will be the onsite Designator for SUE project work. You will find and mark subsurface ...

Halff

Water and Wastewater Team Leader

Houston, TX · On-site

$20.75 - $28.75/hr

... Engineering, Subsurface Utility Engineering/Utility Coordination, Surveying, Transportation, Water Resources and Water/Wastewater. Halff has offices in the following locations : Arkansas

Halff

BIM Designer - Water and Wastewater

The Woodlands, TX · On-site

$20 - $27.50/hr

... subsurface utility engineering/utility coordination, surveying, transportation, water resources and water/wastewater. Halff has offices in the following locations: * Arkansas: Bentonville ...

Halff

Landscape Architect Project Manager

Houston, TX · On-site

... Subsurface Utility Engineering/Utility Coordination, Surveying, Transportation, Water Resources and Water/Wastewater. Halff has offices in the following locations: Arkansas: Bentonville, Fort Smith ...

Brown and Caldwell

Senior Civil Engineer

Houston, TX · Hybrid

Supervise Subsurface Utility Engineering efforts. * Conduct quality control of desktop reviews prepared for the project. * Supervise geotechnical and survey subconsultants efforts an incorporation of ...

AECOM

SUE Field Supervisor

Houston, TX · On-site

We offer a comprehensive suite of Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE), private utility locating, and services to our diverse customer base comprised of Engineering, Environmental, Utility, Surveying ...

Miningamigos

Senior Civil Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$95 - $129/hr

Supervise Subsurface Utility Engineering efforts. * Conduct quality control of desktop reviews prepared for the project. * Supervise geotechnical and survey subconsultants efforts and incorporate the ...

Halff

Director - Public Works

Houston, TX · On-site

... Engineering, Subsurface Utility Engineering/Utility Coordination, Surveying, Transportation, Water Resources and Water/Wastewater. Halff has offices in the following locations : Arkansas

Brown and Caldwell

Senior Civil Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Supervise Subsurface Utility Engineering efforts. * Conduct quality control of desktop reviews prepared for the project. * Supervise geotechnical and survey subconsultants efforts an incorporation of ...

AECOM

SUE Field Supervisor

Houston, TX · On-site

We offer a comprehensive suite of Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE), private utility locating, and services to our diverse customer base comprised of Engineering, Environmental, Utility, Surveying ...

HBK Engineering, LLC

Design Engineer

Spring, TX · On-site

... engineering design firm headquartered in Chicago, IL with a staff approaching 700 individuals. HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsSubsurface Utility Engineering JobsSubsurface Utility Engineering Jobs in Houston, TX

Subsurface Utility Engineering information

See Houston, TX salary details

$33.9K

$93.8K

$161.8K

How much do subsurface utility engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for subsurface utility engineering in Houston, TX is $93,767.00, 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?

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 popular job titles related to Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Houston, TX? For Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Houston, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Houston, TX are:
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Subsurface Utility Engineering job openings:
Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Subsurface Utility Engineering job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, and 94% Full Time. Highlights an 81% In-person, 13% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,767 per year, or $45.1 per hour.

Designator (Tech) - SUE

BinkleyBarfield DCCM

Houston, TX • On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Are you interested in a career in the fun, exciting, yet stable field of civil engineering? DCCM takes pride in our exceptional staff and considers our team critical to the company's success. Providing professionals with the tools and training they need to achieve excellence in their careers is key to employee engagement and productivity. Our goal is to foster a work environment that attracts top talent, inspires innovation, and renders excellence in service to our clients.
Our subsurface utility engineering (SUE) group has a need for a Designator (Tech) to join their team. In this role you will be the onsite Designator for SUE project work. You will find and mark subsurface utilities with a high degree of proficiency. You understand the big picture of finding, documenting, and mapping utilities to enhance the design phase of projects and protect the public.
What you will do:
  • Use, obtain and interpret control point records and locate in the field
  • Identify and document utility types and ownership
  • Set up Traffic Signs and basic traffic control
  • Complete daily paperwork and record keeping
  • Perform simple mathematics
  • Conduct on-site safety meetings
  • Maintenance and up-keep of vehicle, work sites, and equipment
  • Coordinates and supports survey activities in connection with SUE work
  • Selects and applies appropriate geophysical equipment to accurately designate non-complex underground utility layouts
  • Meets with 811 Locators, clients and the public

Who you are:
You possess above average computer literacy and technical capabilities. You are an excellent problem solver who uses knowledge and experience to apply to everyday and unusual situations as they arise. You are accomplished at oral and written communication with exceptional listening and comprehension skills.
What you bring:
  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Field survey experience preferred
  • Familiarity with TxDOT SUE/Survey standards preferred
  • Driving Record that meets company requirements.
  • Basic comprehension and interpretation of utility design plans and record drawings
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
  • Ability to work effectively with co-workers and the public.
  • Ability to operate a computer with Microsoft - Word & Excel, Outlook Email, Google Earth KMZ Files. and other related programs and applications necessary for successful job performance.
  • Skills in the use of specialty tools and equipment.
  • A strong work ethic and a willingness to complete tasks in the field despite the difficulties caused by the weather.

The things about us you will appreciate!
Our comprehensive benefit package includes the following:
  • Three medical plan options (2 PPOs and a HDHP)
  • Dental & vision plans
  • Company-paid group life, short and long-term disability insurance
  • Voluntary Life Insurance
  • Flexible and Dependent care spending accounts
  • Additional Supplemental plans (Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident)
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) which starts accruing upon hire
  • 10 Paid Holidays
  • Alternative Work Schedules

Headhunters and recruitment agencies may not submit resumes through this website or directly to managers. DCCM does not accept unsolicited headhunter or agency resumes and will not pay fees to any third-party agency or company that does not have a signed agreement with DCCM.
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