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Prairie Engineers

Subsurface Utility Engineer

Columbia, IL · On-site

$30 - $36/hr

S. while, in office, will analyze subsurface data and turn it into actionable engineering deliverables - technical reports, conflict analyses, and utility mapping plans. Ideally, you will be located ...

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How much do subsurface jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for subsurface in the United States is $24.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.56 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are subsurface jobs?

Subsurface jobs refer to roles that focus on the study, exploration, and management of what lies beneath the Earth's surface, such as rocks, minerals, groundwater, and hydrocarbons. These positions are commonly found in industries like oil and gas, mining, and environmental engineering. Subsurface professionals use geological, geophysical, and engineering techniques to analyze subsurface conditions, support resource extraction, or assess environmental impacts. Examples of subsurface jobs include geologists, geophysicists, reservoir engineers, and hydrogeologists. The work often involves data analysis, modeling, and fieldwork.

What is the difference between Subsurface vs Geotechnical Engineer?

AspectSubsurfaceGeotechnical Engineer
Required credentialsGeology or geophysics degrees, certifications in subsurface methodsGeotechnical engineering degrees, PE license, soil and foundation certifications
Work environmentField surveys, drilling sites, subsurface data collectionLaboratories, construction sites, design offices
Industry usageOil & gas, mining, environmental projectsConstruction, infrastructure, foundation design

Subsurface specialists focus on exploring and analyzing underground conditions using geophysical and geological methods, often in resource extraction or environmental projects. Geotechnical engineers design foundations and assess soil stability for construction. While both roles involve subsurface data, subsurface professionals emphasize data collection and interpretation, whereas geotechnical engineers focus on applying that data to engineering solutions.

What is the highest paying geology job?

The highest paying geology jobs are often in exploration and management roles such as petroleum geologists, geoscience managers, or senior exploration managers, especially in the oil and gas industry. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and expertise in subsurface analysis, with salaries exceeding six figures annually.

What is a subsurface engineer?

A subsurface engineer is a professional who analyzes and interprets geological and geophysical data to locate and evaluate underground resources such as oil, gas, or minerals. They work with drilling teams, use specialized software, and often require knowledge of reservoir engineering and safety protocols to optimize extraction processes.

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

In the subsurface industry, senior roles such as chief geoscientists, exploration managers, or specialized consultants can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with experience, advanced technical skills, and leadership responsibilities. High-paying positions often require advanced degrees, industry certifications, and extensive field or technical expertise. Compensation varies based on company size, location, and individual performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Subsurface Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Subsurface Engineer, you need a strong background in geology, reservoir engineering, and petroleum engineering, usually supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with technical tools like Petrel, Eclipse, and reservoir simulation software, as well as certifications such as SPE membership, are commonly required. Strong analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork make candidates stand out in this field. These skills are crucial for optimizing hydrocarbon recovery, ensuring safety, and driving efficient decision-making in complex subsurface environments.

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

Professionals in subsurface roles often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex geological data, managing uncertainties in reservoir modeling, and adapting to rapidly evolving technology. Effective communication and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including geologists, engineers, and data scientists, are essential for addressing these challenges. Staying current with industry advancements and participating in ongoing training can also help subsurface professionals implement innovative solutions and maintain accuracy in their analyses. Additionally, leveraging advanced software tools and fostering open communication can significantly enhance project outcomes.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, software, or aerospace engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles. High compensation is typically associated with seniority, technical expertise, and working in high-demand industries or companies with lucrative bonus structures.
More about Subsurface jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Subsurface jobs? The most popular types of Subsurface jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Subsurface jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Subsurface jobs are:
Subsurface jobs near you
Infographic showing various Subsurface job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,000 per year, or $24 per hour.

Subsurface Utility Engineer

Prairie Engineers

Columbia, IL • On-site

$30 - $36/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Launch your civil engineering career with Prairie Engineers at the forefront of subsurface detection technology and join one of the fastest-growing specialties in infrastructure.

We're a team looking to make a lasting impact and want people who embrace challenges, drive change, and help shape our collective future. If that's you, let's connect! Prairie Engineers is a growing and progressive business with opportunities for career advancement, a diverse range of clients, and varied projects across the nation. This position includes occasional travel throughout the U.S. while, in office, will analyze subsurface data and turn it into actionable engineering deliverables - technical reports, conflict analyses, and utility mapping plans. Ideally, you will be located within one hour of the greater St. Louis MO region.

If you're a Jr. Engineer who likes problem-solving, technology, and seeing immediate impact on projects, becoming a part of our SUE team is a great place to start your career.

What you Need:
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from an ABETaccredited program.
  • Licensure: Passed FE exam or will within the first 6 months of employment.
  • Experience: 02 years of experience in civil engineering, focused on subsurface utility engineering (SUE) or utility design. More experience definitely a plus.
  • Software: Microsoft Office Suite, CAD and/or GIS tools (ArcGIS, QGIS, AutoCAD, Microstation), ability to quickly learn and understand new software.
  • Travel: Able to travel and work nights/weekends as project schedules require.
  • Safety: Valid driver's license with insurable driving record; able to pass background check, preemployment and random drug screens; able to walk equivalent of several miles daily and lift up to 80 lbs. consistently.
    • What you will Do:
  • Contribute to the collection, interpretation, and analysis of subsurface utility data using advanced geophysical and survey technology.
  • Develop detailed utility maps and engineering drawings using AutoCAD, Microstation, and GIS systems.
  • Ensure the accuracy and integrity of deliverables through thorough quality review.
  • Support the development of SUE work plans and technical reports for complex civil infrastructure projects.
  • Solve underground conflicts and coordinate solutions in partnership with project teams, clients, and utility owners.
  • Uphold a strong culture of safety in both field and office environments.
    • How you Align:
  • People Focused: Professional, respectful, and teamoriented, with a strong work ethic and the ability to collaborate internally and externally.
  • Can Do Attitude: Positively engages with challenges, facilitates problemsolving, and takes initiative to deliver solutions.
  • Responsive: Communicates openly, proactively, and promptly, with excellent verbal and written communication skills.

    • Salary range $30.00-$36.00 per hour determined by education, experience, licensure, and knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant, as well as internal and external benchmarking.

    Check out the Careers page at prairieengineers.com for details on the generous benefits package available, including 401(k), medical insurance on day one, professional development and to find out why employees chose to join our team. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, genetic information (including family medical history), or any other legally protected status.

    Potential candidates for this position should submit cover letter and resume. We are interested in every qualified candidate who is authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. However, we are not able to sponsor current or future visas for this position.

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