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Subsurface Utility Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Harris Kocher Smith

Utility Project Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

HKS Civil is a local civil engineering, Subsurface Utility Engineering and surveying company. We offer an excellent opportunity to advance your career to the next level with a true Subsurface Utility ...

AGILE UNDERGROUND SERVICES LLC

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Utility Locate Technician

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$16 - $32/hr

Job Summary The Utility Technician is responsible for performing a variety of field and technical tasks related to all phases of private locating, Pre-design locating, Subsurface Utility Engineering ...

ESP Associates

Subsurface Utility Technician

Hendersonville, NC · On-site

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

ESP is a multi-discipline engineering design and consulting firm providing our clients with civil ... subsurface utility engineering, and construction engineering inspection. Through years of dedicated ...

Synerfac Technical Staffing

Utility Locator

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

We are seeking both entry-level and experienced Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Technicians to support our growing team. The ideal candidates will assist in the identification, mapping, and ...

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How much do subsurface utility engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for subsurface utility engineering in the United States is $96,779.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,500.00 and $118,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

How much do subsurface utility engineers make?

Subsurface Utility Engineers typically earn a median annual salary between $60,000 and $90,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in regions with high demand for utility mapping and infrastructure projects.
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Cities with the most Subsurface Utility Engineering job openings:

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Popular job titles for Subsurface Utility Engineering:

subsurface utility engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Subsurface Utility Engineering job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,779 per year, or $46.5 per hour.

Subsurface Utility Engineering Party Chief

Asheville, NC • On-site

Johnson,-Mirmiran-
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Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Subsurface Utility Engineering Party Chief

Surveying / Subsurface Utility Engineering

All LocationsTracking Code

26527

Position Type

Full-Time/Regular

Job Description

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Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson is a dynamic, 100% employee-owned consulting firm with more than 2,800 professionals, providing a full range of multidisciplinary engineering, architecture, information technology, and related services to public agencies and private clients throughout the United States. JMT is currently ranked #45 on Engineering News-Record’s list of the Top 500 Design Firms.

Position Summary: JMT is currently looking for an experienced SUE Party Chief to join the Underground Utilities, Land Surveying, and Mapping team in Asheville (Candler), North Carolina!

Immigration sponsorship or support (e.g. H1B, F-1 CPT/OPT/STEM OPT) is not available for this position, except for qualified candidates eligible for the TN visa classification.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

  • Participates in pre-survey planning meetings with project managers, engineers, and contractor representatives
  • Assigns and monitors work, and provides input for evaluation of members of field survey crew
  • Instructs and trains survey crew in survey and mapping methods, use of equipment, and field safety procedures
  • Completes daily report cards and field note sketches
  • Provides time estimates for specific tasks
  • Performs complex surveying calculations using calculator, computer, and coordinate geometry software such as AutoCAD

Nonessential Functions and Responsibilities

  • Perform other related duties as assigned
Required Skills
  • Must successfully complete and pass JMT's Motor Vehicle screening
  • Valid Driver’s License Required
  • Able to pass Background Check
  • Ability to lead project assignments
  • Must be able to fully comprehend and interpret roadway and utility construction plans, and utility record drawings
  • Use of multiple types of utility designating equipment
  • Good organizational, written, and verbal communications skills.
  • Knowledge of Vacuum Excavation and Ground Penetrating Radar equipment/procedures
  • Able to work outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Able to bend, kneel, lift and carry up to 50lbs as needed
  • Able to work 7:00 am - 4:00 pm Monday - Friday (Minimum)
  • Ability to travel required
Required Experience
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Minimum of five (5) years of experience in the successful application of multiple types of utility designating and locating equipment, with demonstrated ability to lead project assignments and supervise multiple crews
  • Land Surveying experience a plus

Working Conditions

Work is performed in the field 90% of the time. Ability to extensively perform bending, kneeling, standing, shoveling, and lifting and carrying objects weighing up to 50 lbs as needed. Work may be conducted outside in heat/cold, wet/humid, and dry/arid conditions.

Work is performed within a general office environment 10% of the time. Office work is generally sedentary in nature, but may require occasional standing and walking. Lighting and temperature are adequate and there are no hazardous or unpleasant conditions caused by noise, dust, etc. within the office environment.

JMT offers outstanding opportunities for career and professional growth. We are 100% employee-owned (ESOP) and offer outstanding health care coverage and other benefits, including:

  • Affordable Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Company paid Life and Disability Insurance
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Caregiver Leave Program
  • 401K Retirement Plan (Traditional and Roth options)

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.

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