Subsurface Utility Investigator

Jacobs; Denver (CO); Hybrid; USD 58,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

Hybrid work policy

401(k) plan

Stock purchase program

Paid holidays

Job summary

Jacobs in Colorado is seeking a Subsurface Utility Investigator (Utility Locator) to join our field teams on major infrastructure projects. You’ll apply subsurface locating technologies in the field, create sketches, and support design teams with accurate data.

The role requires 2+ years in subsurface utility investigation, travel up to 50%, and a strong commitment to safety within a hybrid work environment.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in subsurface utility investigation.
• Strong understanding of subsurface technologies.
• Ability to travel up to 50%.

Responsibilities

• Prioritize safety and follow safety protocols.
• Operate and maintain geophysical prospecting equipment.
• Collect data using utility locating technologies.
• Create field sketches and maps of investigation areas.
• Interpret subsurface information for project teams.
• Access manholes and measure inverts.

Skills

Subsurface technologies

Field investigations

Travel up to 50%

Tools

RD

Metrotech Vivax

GPR

EM

Job description

At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting-edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.

Your impact

At Jacobs, we challenge what’s currently accepted so we can shape innovative and lasting solutions for tomorrow. If you’re interested in a rewarding career working with the industry’s best and most forward thinking professionals, then Jacobs is where you belong.

We are seeking a Subsurface Utility Investigator (Utility Locator) to join our collaborative team and support a wide range of mapping and land development projects. Based in Colorado, you’ll work in the field on major infrastructure projects, applying your expertise to investigate and designate subsurface utilities.

As a Subsurface Utility Investigator, you will

• Prioritize safety at all times and follow established safety protocols.
• Demonstrate strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Perform field investigations in accordance with ASCE 38 22 standards.
• Operate and maintain geophysical prospecting equipment and utility locating instruments.
• Collect data using both standard and advanced utility locating and geophysical technologies.
• In the field, use Radio-Frequency Electromagnetic Induction (RFEMI) equipment to locate subsurface utilities in a variety of environments and project sites.
• Create accurate field sketches and maps of investigation areas.
• Interpret subsurface information during field work and post processing.
• Communicate findings and analyses to project teams.
• Access manholes and inlets to measure inverts.
• Work both independently and within team environments.
• Assist surveyors during data collection.
• Quality control mapping deliverables for completeness and accuracy.
• (Optional) Perform GPS and conventional surveying tasks in the field.

Here’s what you’ll need

• Strong understanding of subsurface technologies, including RD, Metrotech Vivax, GPR, EM, and emerging tools.
• 2+ years of experience in subsurface utility investigation for engineering projects.
• Ability to travel up to 50% of the time.

Our health and welfare benefits are designed to invest in you, and in the things you care about. Your health. Your well-being. Your security. Your future. Employees have access to medical, dental, vision and basic life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off (allocated plans start date 17 days per calendar year), seven paid holidays, and caregiver leave and the ability to purchase company stock at a discount as well as legally mandated benefits.

The base salary range for this position is $58,200.00 to $90,000.00; though will be paid hourly based on hours worked. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. Job posted on August 17, 2026. This position will be open for at least 3 days.

We value collaboration and believe that in-person interactions are crucial for both our culture and client delivery. We empower employees with our hybrid working policy, allowing them to split their work week between Jacobs offices/projects and remote locations enabling them to deliver their best work.

Your application experience is important to us, and we’re keen to adapt to make every interaction even better. If you require further support or reasonable adjustments with regards to the recruitment process (for example, you require the application form in a different format), please contact the team via Careers Support.