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Subsurface Utility Engineering Jobs in Raleigh, NC

ESP Associates

Survey CAD Technician

Morrisville, NC · On-site

... subsurface utility engineering, and construction engineering inspection. Through years of dedicated service to our clients, ESP has received a designation of 189 on the 2026 ENR Top 500 Design Firm ...

WSP

SUE Tech I

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

The successful candidate will be part of a team conducting Subsurface Utility Engineering of all levels. In this role, you will have the opportunity to work with an exceptional management team ...

ESP Associates

Land Development Group Manager

Morrisville, NC · On-site

$79K - $108K/yr

... subsurface utility engineering, and construction engineering inspection. Through years of dedicated service to our clients, ESP has received a designation of 195 on the 2025 ENR Top 500 Design Firm ...

McAdams

SUE CAD Technician

Durham, NC · On-site

Knowledge and understanding of the Subsurface Utility Engineering (S.U.E) Quality Levels * Possess a strong technical knowledge of AutoCAD, Carlson survey and Civil 3D software, along with Microsoft ...

HBK Engineering, LLC

Designer

Cary, NC · On-site +1

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

HBK Engineering, LLC

Designer

Cary, NC · 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 ...

WSP

SUE Tech I

Raleigh, NC

$37K - $47K/yr

The successful candidate will be part of a team conducting Subsurface Utility Engineering of all levels. In this role, you will have the opportunity to work with an exceptional management team ...

McAdams

SUE CAD Technician

Durham, NC · On-site

Knowledge and understanding of the Subsurface Utility Engineering (S.U.E) Quality Levels * Possess a strong technical knowledge of AutoCAD, Carlson survey and Civil 3D software, along with Microsoft ...

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All JobsSubsurface Utility Engineering JobsSubsurface Utility Engineering Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Subsurface Utility Engineering information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$34K

$94.1K

$162.3K

How much do subsurface utility engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for subsurface utility engineering in Raleigh, NC is $94,077.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,500.00 and $115,200.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Subsurface Utility Engineering job openings:
Subsurface Utility Engineering jobs near you
Survey CAD Technician

Survey CAD Technician

ESP Associates

Morrisville, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

ESP Associates, Inc. is seeking a full-time Survey CAD Technician in our Raleigh office.

Qualifications:

  • Associate degree or higher in surveying technology/geomatics, civil engineering, or related field and/or registration as a SI preferred, but not required.
  • 5+ years’ experience in land surveying preferred.
  • Candidates will be required to demonstrate strong self-motivational and organizational skills, experience with survey computations and platting as well as field experience required.
  • Position may require work to be performed in the field.
  • Land Development survey experience required with emphasis on land development projects a plus.
  • Experience with following programs preferred: Civil 3D 2022 or higher, Google Earth, Trimble Business Center and Microsoft Word & Excel.
  • Experience with the following equipment preferred: Trimble data collection, GPS receivers, robotic total stations
  • Computer skills involved in the submittal of daily files including downloading of data, preparation/organization of field sketches & digital photographs, and completion of daily checklists is required.
  • Must be able to pass a drug screen, background check, and have a satisfactory driving record in accordance with the company’s driving (MVR) policy.

Corporate Information:

ESP is a multi-discipline engineering design and consulting firm providing our clients with civil engineering, surveying, planning/landscape architecture, geosciences, environmental, subsurface utility engineering, and construction engineering inspection.

Through years of dedicated service to our clients, ESP has received a designation of 189 on the 2026 ENR Top 500 Design Firm rankings. For the firm's primary territory, the ENR Texas & Southeast Top Design Firms, ESP received a 2026 ranking of 53.

ESP offers an excellent employee benefits package including:

  • Competitive compensation with yearly performance reviews and discretionary annual bonuses
  • 401(k) (Traditional & Roth plans) with a guaranteed employer match of 100% up to the first 3% and 50% on the next 2% (eligibility after 60 days)
  • PTO (Paid Time Off) & 10 Paid Holidays
  • VTO (Volunteer Time Off) of 4 hours each year (prorated during first year based on hire date)
  • Tiered Health, Vision & Dental Insurance Options (eligibility after 30 days)
  • Behavioral Medicine through Teladoc
  • Short-Term Disability Insurance (Employer paid)
  • Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Pet Insurance
  • Education Reimbursement Opportunities
  • Flexible and Dependent Benefits Plan
  • Referral Bonuses