Subsurface Utility Locator (NC)

Patriot Surveying & Infrastructure; Wilmington (NC); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

CONUS per diem

Job summary

Patriot Surveying & Infrastructure seeks a self-driven SUE Level B Technician to support large-scale infrastructure projects across the United States. You will perform non-destructive utility locating with GPR systems and EM locators, accurately mark and document utilities, and coordinate with Survey Field Crews to ensure precise mapping.

Expect extensive travel, including Wilmington to Charleston and beyond, with CONUS per diem.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent with related field experience.
• Ability to work independently in remote or field environments.
• Valid driver’s license, clean MVR, pre-employment drug screen and background checks.

Responsibilities

• Perform non-destructive utility locating (Level B) using GPR and EM locators.
• Mark, document, and sketch utility depths and positions on plans or field drawings.
• Coordinate with Survey Field Crews, clients and project managers; deliver safety briefings.
• Set up traffic control, maintain equipment, and complete project documentation.

Skills

Independent fieldwork

Strong communication

Safety procedures

Education

High School Diploma

Tools

GPR systems

EM locators

Job description

About the Role & Company

We are seeking a self-driven, detail-oriented Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE Level B) Technician to support large-scale infrastructure projects across the United States. In this essential field role, you will independently perform non-destructive subsurface utility location and serve as a critical frontline operator, managing daily field logistics with minimal direct supervision. You will effectively operate Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) systems and radio-frequency electromagnetic pipe and cable locators, while collaborating closely with Survey Field Crews to ensure high-quality data collection and proactive site troubleshooting.

Location & Travel

Regular travel between Wilmington and Charleston is required, with occasional travel to other areas as business needs dictate.

• 100% Travel Roles (CONUS Per Diem): In addition to office-based and hybrid roles near our primary locations, we warmly welcome candidates with high travel availability to support major nationwide field projects. All 100% travel assignments include daily per diem allowances at standard CONUS (Continental U.S.) rates to support our personnel during active project deployments.

Essential Responsibilities (Field Execution & Utility Locating)

As a SUE Technician, you will work independently to execute non-destructive utility location (Level B) using geophysical equipment, including GPR systems and electromagnetic (EM) pipe and cable locators. You will accurately mark, document, and sketch the horizontal position and depth of underground utilities (water, gas, electric, communication lines) onto project plans or field sketches. Proactive communication is essential, as you will coordinate work efforts with Survey Field Crews, clients, and project managers to ensure precise mapping.

Your daily operational duties include conducting site reconnaissance, setting up traffic control, and delivering safety briefings prior to commencing field work. You will maintain, calibrate, and properly care for all assigned geophysical locating equipment and company vehicles; complete daily project documentation and reporting; and strictly follow all company QA/QC procedures and safety standards on-site.

Qualifications & Requirements

Candidates must bring a proven track record of working independently in a remote or field-based environment, backed by strong written and verbal communication skills to coordinate with cross-functional teams and deliver safety briefings. A High School Diploma or equivalent, with related experience in utility locating or SUE fieldwork, is required. In contrast, prior SUE Level B experience or a recognized Utility Locator Certification is highly desirable. Candidates must possess a valid driver’s license, a clean Motor Vehicle Record (MVR), and successfully pass a pre-employment drug screening and standard 7-year background check. Candidates must also demonstrate the ability and willingness to travel extensively for nationwide infrastructure assignments.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

This field position requires frequent standing, walking, and hiking over rough, steep, or uneven terrain for extended periods. Candidates must have the physical ability to frequently lift, carry, and maneuver equipment weighing up to 50 pounds, including GPR carts, batteries, and traffic control devices. Field operations require working outdoors for full shifts across all weather conditions, along with frequent bending, kneeling, and stooping to set up equipment and paint utility markings on the ground. Strong hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity are required for operating precision geophysical instruments.

Why Join the Patriot Team?

At PSI, we recognize that our field personnel drive our project success. For this 100% travel role, our 7-day per diem model, using standard CONUS rates, ensures our field technicians are among the best supported in the industry. We offer a competitive compensation structure paired with comprehensive health, financial, and overall wellness benefits. We actively foster a supportive culture that values clear communication, technical excellence, and frontline safety, providing genuine opportunities for professional growth and strategic leadership as our nationwide firm continues to expand.