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Subsurface Utility Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Subsurface Utility information

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How much do subsurface utility jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for subsurface utility in the United States is $16.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a subsurface utility engineer?

Subsurface utility engineers are professionals who specialize in identifying, mapping, and managing underground utilities such as water pipes, gas lines, electrical cables, and telecommunications infrastructure. They use advanced technologies like ground-penetrating radar, electromagnetic equipment, and surveying methods to locate utilities that are not visible on the surface. Their work is critical in construction and infrastructure projects to prevent accidental damage, ensure public safety, and comply with legal requirements. Subsurface utility engineers often collaborate with civil engineers, construction teams, and local authorities to provide accurate utility data before excavation or development work begins.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a subsurface utility engineer?

To excel as a Subsurface Utility Engineer, a solid background in civil engineering, utility mapping, and geospatial analysis is essential, often supported by a relevant engineering degree and professional licensure (such as PE or EIT). Familiarity with tools like Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), AutoCAD, GIS software, and SUE (Subsurface Utility Engineering) standards is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help professionals collaborate with project teams and convey complex findings. These competencies are vital to ensure accurate utility location, reduce project risks, and maintain public safety during construction activities.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in subsurface utility roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Subsurface Utility roles often encounter challenges such as accurately locating underground utilities, interpreting complex site plans, and coordinating with multiple stakeholders to avoid service disruptions. These challenges can be addressed through rigorous training in utility detection technologies, effective communication with project teams, and adherence to safety and regulatory standards. Staying updated with the latest industry practices and leveraging advanced geophysical tools also helps mitigate risks and improve the accuracy of utility mapping.

What is the difference between Subsurface Utility vs Geotechnical Engineer?

AspectSubsurface UtilityGeotechnical Engineer
CredentialsUtility locating certifications, survey trainingEngineering degree, geotechnical certifications
Work EnvironmentField surveys, utility mapping sitesSite investigations, soil testing labs
Industry UsageConstruction, infrastructure projectsFoundation design, earthworks

Subsurface Utility professionals focus on locating and mapping underground utilities, while Geotechnical Engineers analyze soil and rock properties for construction stability. Both roles are essential in construction projects but differ in their specific focus and expertise areas.

More about Subsurface Utility jobs

What cities are hiring for Subsurface Utility jobs?

Cities with the most Subsurface Utility job openings:

What states have the most Subsurface Utility jobs?

States with the most job openings for Subsurface Utility jobs include:

Infographic showing various Subsurface Utility job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,584 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Technician

Gainesville, VA • On-site

Dewberry
Civil Engineering Construction • 501 - 1,000 employees

$47K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform field assignments including vacuum excavation and utility designation.

  • Operate utility locating equipment and read construction plans and utility records.

  • Complete paperwork and deliverables accurately while working in a team environment.


Dewberry rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description


Dewberry is seeking a Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) / Survey Technician in Gainesville, VA to assist with SUE operations for Dewberry's Virgina based survey practice.Candidate must be able to work in a fast paced environment, travel to projects throughout the state, participate in multiple projects, coordinate daily with management and other SUE and conventional survey teams and perform field related activities.
Dewberry is a leading, market-facing professional services firm with more than 60 locations and 2,500 professionals nationwide. What sets us apart from our competitors is our people. At Dewberry, we seek out exceptional talent and strive to deliver the highest quality of services to our clients. Whether you're an experienced professional or a new graduate, you'll have the chance to collaborate with the best and brightest and work on innovative and complex projects at the forefront of the industry. Our commitment to excellence stems from our personal integrity and from other defining attributes, which we call "Dewberry at Work," that have inspired our employees to be successful for more than a half-century.
Responsibilities
  • Perform field assignments that include vacuum excavation and utility designation.
  • Performs operations with utility locating equipment.
  • Read and understand construction plans and utility records.
  • Understand and follow company mandated health and safety standards.
  • Complete paperwork and deliverables that are legible and accurate.
  • Work well in a team environment.

Required Skills & Required Experience
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Previous Subsurface Utility Engineering experience is preferred but not required.
  • Experience with field equipment, data collectors & GPS a plus.
  • Must be dependable, conscientious, self-motivated and driven.
  • Must be willing and able to work in outdoor field conditions.
  • Must be able to work overtime as required.
  • Must be willing and able to travel.
  • Must have a valid driver's license, good driving record and ability to pass a driving record background check.

The projected range for this position is $47,000 - $60,000 annually. Depending upon other factors, i.e., skills, experience, location, market conditions, the range may vary slightly.
Don't meet every single requirement? At Dewberry we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace for our employees. So if you're excited about this role, but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the position description, we encourage you to apply anyways. You may just be the right candidate for this or other opportunities.
*At this time, Dewberry will not sponsor a new applicant for work authorization.
*Dewberry is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity or sexual orientation.
*Only recipients of an offer of employment from Dewberry, will be required to submit to a background screening which may include, but is not limited to, employment verification, educational and other credential verification, driving record check, criminal background check, and an investigative consumer report. These screenings will be conducted by Dewberry's background vendor of choice and will be conducted in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local law
Notice to Third Party Recruiters: Dewberry only compensates job placement recruiters that have a valid Dewberry-approved written agreement in place for recruiting services. Dewberry does not compensate third party recruiters for unsolicited job placement candidate information.

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