Field Technician

Actalent; United States; On-site; USD 26,174 - 35,817; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental & vision

401(k) Retirement Plan

Paid Time Off

Job summary

Actalent is seeking a SUE Technician based in Charleston, SC. In this role, you'll support subsurface utility engineering projects by operating specialized equipment and documenting underground utilities. You'll assist a SUE Analyst, manage field tasks, and ensure safety and efficiency on varied sites.

The ideal candidate has 2+ years of experience, proficiency with SUE and survey equipment, and a strong analytical mindset. This position offers professional growth opportunities in a supportive, process-driven environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of experience as a SUE Technician.
• Hands-on experience with subsurface utility engineering field equipment.
• Willingness to travel up to 50% within South Carolina and Georgia.

Responsibilities

• Assist the SUE Analyst with daily operation of the SUE field crew.
• Operate SUE field equipment to collect data on utilities.
• Document findings and communicate effectively with project teams.

Skills

Survey equipment proficiency

Subsurface utility engineering experience

Problem-solving skills

Ability to work independently

Tools

Ground penetrating radar

GPS

Electromagnetic designating equipment

Job description

Job Title: SUE Technician

The SUE Technician supports subsurface utility engineering projects by safely operating specialized survey and SUE field equipment to locate and document underground utilities across a variety of project sites. This role works closely with a SUE Analyst and may lead a small field crew or work independently, often in challenging outdoor conditions. The position offers strong growth opportunities, professional development, and the chance to contribute as an employee‑owner in a supportive, process‑driven environment.

Responsibilities

• Assist the SUE Analyst with the daily operation of a SUE field crew, ensuring safe and efficient completion of field tasks.
• Operate subsurface utility engineering (SUE) field equipment, including ground penetrating radar, electromagnetic designating equipment, sewer cameras, probe rods, jackhammers, chop saws, pneumatic tampers, vacuum excavation equipment, and other geophysical tools.
• Use survey equipment such as total stations, GPS, SUE locating equipment, and hydrographic equipment to accurately collect field data.
• Locate, identify, and document a wide variety of utilities, including gas lines, cable lines, septic tank pipes, underground storage tanks, storm drains, and telecommunication lines.
• Work independently on project sites, managing daily tasks, prioritizing work, and making sound field decisions with minimal supervision.
• Lead a small crew of one when necessary, providing direction, maintaining safety, and ensuring quality standards in field operations.
• Perform field work on diverse sites such as airports, railroads, construction sites, and industrial facilities, adhering to all site‑specific safety protocols.
• Walk and work outdoors for extended periods through varied terrain, including urban, suburban, and rural locations, as well as hills, swamps, and high‑traffic areas.
• Maintain a high level of precision and attention to detail in all measurements, markings, and documentation of underground utilities.
• Apply analytical and problem‑solving skills to interpret field conditions, troubleshoot equipment issues, and resolve utility locating challenges.
• Follow established processes and safety procedures to protect team members, the public, and existing infrastructure.
• Travel throughout South Carolina and Georgia as needed to support project work, including occasional overnight stays.
• Lift, carry, and operate field equipment weighing up to 50 pounds as required by project activities.
• Communicate effectively with project teams regarding field progress, findings, and any issues encountered.
• Uphold professional, honest, and trustworthy conduct while representing the organization on project sites.

Essential Skills

• Minimum of 2 years of experience as a SUE Technician.
• Proficiency with survey equipment, including total stations, GPS, SUE locating equipment, and hydrographic equipment.
• Hands‑on experience with subsurface utility engineering (SUE) field equipment such as ground penetrating radar and electromagnetic designating equipment.
• Ability to locate and work with a variety of utilities, including gas lines, cable lines, septic tank pipes, underground storage tanks, storm drains, and telecommunication lines.
• Capability to work independently on project sites and to lead a small crew when required.
• Strong technical aptitude and process‑oriented work style.
• Excellent problem‑solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to walk and work outdoors for long periods in varied and adverse conditions.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and safely carry and operate field equipment.
• Willingness and ability to travel up to 50% within South Carolina and Georgia, including occasional overnight travel.
• Self‑motivation and an entrepreneurial spirit, with the ability to work unsupervised when necessary.
• Demonstrated traits such as reliability, honesty, trustworthiness, adaptability, attention to detail, and precision.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working on airports, railroads, construction sites, and industrial sites is a plus.
• Comfort working in high‑traffic areas, as well as urban, suburban, and rural environments.
• Methodical and consistent approach to fieldwork and documentation.
• Strong interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with field and office teams.
• Interest in professional growth through mentoring, training, and online learning opportunities.
• Ability to manage time effectively to support an average 50‑hour workweek, including some overtime.

Work Environment

This is a field‑focused role with hours generally from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, working 8–10 hour days and averaging around 50 hours per week, with some overtime as needed. The role involves frequent walking, standing, bending, and lifting up to 50 pounds while operating survey and SUE equipment. The position may be outdoor in all weather conditions, including heat and cold, and across varied terrain such as urban streets, suburban neighborhoods, rural areas, hills, swamps, and high‑traffic zones. Project sites may include airports, railroads, construction sites, and industrial facilities, requiring strict adherence to safety procedures and site rules.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Charleston, SC.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $19.00 - $26.00/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 fully onsite position in Charleston, SC.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 11, 2026.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.