Job Title: Entry-Level SUE TechnicianJob Description
This entry-level Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Technician role offers a strong training path for individuals with a background in SUE or land surveying. You will work primarily in the field, supporting survey and subsurface utility projects by operating survey equipment, performing utility locating, and helping to ensure accurate, high-quality data collection. Under the guidance of experienced leadership, you will gain hands-on experience with modern survey tools and methods while contributing to safe and efficient project delivery.
Responsibilities
Locate, review, and research job locations to identify landmarks, physical features, and land changes that may affect survey work.
Supervise and direct the work of the survey crew, helping to evaluate priorities and coordinate daily work efforts.
Monitor the standard and quality of field work performed and perform necessary field calculations based on collected data.
Oversee the care, proper use, and routine maintenance of survey instruments and equipment.
Ensure that angles, distances, and other field measurements are accurate and conform to applicable regulations and standards.
Coordinate survey findings and results with engineering personnel, clients, and other project stakeholders.
Research previous survey evidence, maps, deeds, physical evidence, and related records to obtain data needed for surveys.
Determine appropriate methods and procedures for establishing or reestablishing survey control on project sites.
Keep accurate notes, records, and sketches to clearly describe all work performed in the field.
Complete daily logs and expense reports in a timely and accurate manner.
Fill out required company and client safety forms and ensure all crew members follow established safety procedures.
Consult with computer operators and review the final production of survey work to verify accuracy and completeness.
Use survey tools and field equipment for measuring, sighting, and leveling, following proper care and handling practices.
Operate survey equipment such as Total Stations, Data Collectors, Levels, and various Global Positioning System (GPS) methods.
Work on and around a vacuum excavation truck to perform utility locating as part of subsurface utility engineering activities.
Essential Skills
High school diploma or GED.
At least 2 years of survey experience.
background in SUE, subsurface utility engineering, or land surveying.
Proficiency with survey equipment, including total stations and GPS.
Familiarity with commonly used surveying terms and the use and care of survey tools and field equipment for measuring, sighting, and leveling.
Experience working outside on a regular basis, preferably in extreme weather or environmental conditions.
Willingness to travel as project needs require.
Willingness to work on a vacuum excavation truck to perform utility locating.
Valid driver's license with an acceptable motor vehicle record.
Ability to pass a drug test.
Strong technical aptitude and attention to detail.
Ability to work independently when required and maintain a methodical, process-oriented approach.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Experience with subsurface utility engineering, including utility designating and locating, is preferred but not required.
Experience in roles such as Land Surveyor, Surveyor, Party Chief, Crew Chief, Instrument Operator, or similar positions.
Experience with SUE, Subsurface Utility, or Subsurface Utility Engineering projects.
Analytical and problem-solving skills with a focus on accuracy and precision.
Behavioral traits such as being steady, helpful, honest, trustworthy, adaptable, consistent, detail oriented, and structured.
Strong dislike of errors and a commitment to high-quality, mistake-free work.
Comfort working both as part of a crew and independently in the field.
Work Environment
This role is based out of an office in the Raleigh, NC area, with the majority of time spent in the field on active project sites. The primary workload is typically within a daily commuting distance, but you may travel within the region, including North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. When project locations fall outside of a daily commute, overnight travel may be required and will be supported accordingly. You will work extensively outdoors, often in varying and potentially extreme weather conditions, operating survey equipment such as Total Stations, Data Collectors, Levels, GPS units, and vacuum excavation trucks for utility locating. The environment is hands-on, safety-focused, and structured, with an emphasis on accurate data collection, adherence to procedures, and collaboration with survey crews and engineering teams. Dress will align with fieldwork and safety requirements, including appropriate outdoor and protective gear as needed.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Wilmington, NC.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $35.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: - Medical, dental & vision - Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital - 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available - Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) - Short and long-term disability - Health Spending Account (HSA) - Transportation benefits - Employee Assistance Program - Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a hybrid position in Wilmington,NC.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Apr 30, 2026.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:
Hiring diverse talent
Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
Ensuring growth opportunities for our people
Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we've helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC-with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.
Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.
