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How much do subsurface utility jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 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 jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

Subsurface utility jobs such as utility locator or survey technician can pay around $10,000 a month with experience and specialized skills. These roles often require technical knowledge, certifications, and fieldwork but do not always require a college degree.

What does an underground utility worker do?

An underground utility worker installs, maintains, and repairs underground infrastructure such as water, gas, sewer, and electrical lines. They use specialized tools like excavation equipment, locate utilities to prevent damage, and often work in confined or outdoor environments, following safety protocols and requiring knowledge of relevant codes and certifications.

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.

What are subsurface utility engineers?

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, and why are they important?

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 jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the field of subsurface utility work, high-paying roles such as senior geotechnical engineers, project managers, or specialized consultants can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. These positions often require expertise in subsurface mapping, utility detection technologies, and project oversight. Compensation varies based on industry, location, and company size.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Subsurface utility jobs that can pay around $2,000 a day typically involve specialized consulting, engineering, or project management roles in the construction or energy sectors. These positions often require advanced certifications, extensive experience, and work in high-demand environments such as offshore drilling, large-scale infrastructure projects, or complex surveying tasks.
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:
What job categories do people searching Subsurface Utility jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Subsurface Utility jobs are:
Subsurface Utility jobs near you
Infographic showing various Subsurface Utility job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 23% Full Time, 61% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,584 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

AutoCAD Specialist - SUE (Subsurface Utility Engineering)

NINE ENGINEERING LLC

Plantation, FL

$60K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
The AutoCAD Specialist – SUE is responsible for preparing and maintaining detailed CAD drawings related to Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) investigations and underground utility design. This position supports engineers, project managers, and field teams by converting survey data, utility records, and field investigation results into accurate utility mapping and design drawings. The role requires strong proficiency in AutoCAD and experience working with underground utility data, including telecommunications, gas, water, sewer, and electric infrastructure.
Key Responsibilities:

  • Prepare and update CAD drawings for SUE investigations, utility mapping, and infrastructure design using AutoCAD.
  • Process and incorporate survey data, field investigation notes, and utility records into detailed CAD plans.
  • Produce plan and profile drawings, base maps, utility layouts, and construction drawings.
  • Interpret data from utility locates, test holes, and geophysical investigations performed during Subsurface Utility Engineering.
  • Assist in preparing drawings in accordance with **ASCE 38 Quality Levels (QL-A, QL-B, QL-C, QL-D).
  • Maintain and organize CAD files, layers, and project documentation in accordance with company CAD standards.
  • Review drawings for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with project specifications.
  • Coordinate with survey teams, SUE field crews, engineers, and project managers to ensure accurate representation of underground utilities.
  • Update drawings based on field redlines, engineering revisions, and survey updates.
  • Prepare exhibits, permit drawings, and deliverables for client submittals.
Required Qualifications:

  • Proficiency in AutoCAD with strong drafting and technical drawing skills.
  • Experience preparing utility base maps and underground utility layouts.
  • Ability to read and interpret civil engineering plans, surveys, and utility records.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple drawing revisions.
  • Understanding of CAD layering standards, scaling, and dimensioning practices.
  • Effective communication and coordination skills with technical teams.
Preferred Qualifications:

  • Associate degree or certification in Drafting, Engineering Technology, or CAD Design.
  • Experience working with SUE projects and underground utility investigations.
  • Familiarity with civil engineering software such as AutoCAD Civil 3D.
  • Knowledge of telecom, gas, water, sewer, or electrical utility infrastructure.
  • Experience with survey data integration and mapping.
Typical Work Environment:

  • Engineering and consulting firms
  • Utility design companies
  • Infrastructure and construction support firms
Key Skills:

  • AutoCAD drafting and design
  • Utility mapping and interpretation
  • Technical documentation and drawing control
  • Coordination with survey and engineering teams
  • Understanding of underground infrastructure systems
Position Objective:
To support engineering and design teams by producing accurate CAD drawings that reflect field-verified underground utilities and ensure safe, efficient planning and construction of infrastructure projects.