SUE Technician III (Utility Locator)

McKim & Creed, Inc.; South Carolina; On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee Stock Ownership Plan

Paid holidays

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

A utility engineering firm is seeking a SUE Technician III in South Carolina. This role involves managing a Subsurface Utility Engineering field crew, ensuring accurate data collection, and maintaining safety protocols during utility installations. Candidates should have 5-10 years of experience in utility locating and be proficient with relevant equipment. Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail are essential. This position may require some overnight travel, and competitive benefits include an Employee Stock Ownership Plan and professional development opportunities.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 to 10 years of progressive experience as a utility locator or SUE Technician.
• Proficient with SUE locating equipment and vacuum excavation equipment.
• Background and motor vehicle checks, and pre-employment drug screening required.

Responsibilities

• Operate and manage a Utility Location and SUE field crew.
• Train crew on the use of SUE field equipment.
• Collaborate with construction crews to ensure safe utility installations.
• Maintain accurate records of utility locations and updates.

Skills

Utility locating

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Analytical skills

Ability to work in various terrains

Education

High School/GED or equivalent preferred

Tools

GPS

Ground penetrating radar

Vacuum excavation equipment

Job description

OVERVIEW

A SUE Technician III is responsible for the operation and management of a Utility Location and Subsurface Utility Engineering "SUE" field crew. Must accurately and efficiently collect field data, locate features, and deliver data to the office, while maintaining accurate records of work and expenses. Problem solver, helpful, analytical, detail oriented, likes structure are beneficial traits for the position.

DURING YOUR WORK DAY, YOU WILL

• Be responsible for the operation and managing of a Utility Location and Subsurface Utility Engineering "SUE" field crew. Major objectives are the quality (accuracy, thoroughness, clarity, meets regulatory requirements, public relations) of work, safety, meeting schedules, within budgets, and responsive service to clients.
• Train crew members on the use of various Subsurface Utility Engineering field equipment: ground penetrating radar, electromagnetic designating equipment, sewer camera, probe rod, jackhammer, chop saw, pneumatic tampers, vacuum excavation equipment, and other geophysical means using all safety protocols, industry standards and guidelines.
• Collaborate with construction crews and contractors to ensure the safe excavation and installation of utilities.
• Maintain accurate records of utility locations and updates.
• Conduct regular inspections and assessments to identify potential hazards or issues.
• Organize field work and direct crew members, while accurately and efficiently collecting field data, locating features, and delivering data to the office, while maintaining accurate records of work and expense.
• Adhere to all company policies and procedures.
• Some overnight travel will be required.
• May perform other duties as assigned.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED

• High School/GED or equivalent preferred.
• Minimum 5 to 10 years of progressive experience as a utility locator or SUE Technician; proficiency with SUE locating equipment, total stations and GPS, SUE locating equipment and vacuum excavation equipment.
• Strong knowledge of underground utility systems and radar; the ability to interpret maps and records.
• Ability to walk outdoors for long periods of time through all kinds of terrain, including urban, suburban, and rural locations, and working under adverse conditions (heat, cold, hills, swamps, wildlife & insects, high traffic areas).
• Proficient technical skills; behavioral traits of process oriented, steady, helpful, honest, trustworthy, adaptable, analytical, problem solver, likes to work alone when required, methodical, consistent, detail oriented, precise, hates mistakes, likes structure.
• Work 50 hours during busy periods. Ability to travel daily, including overnight stays when required.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds, carry, and operate equipment as needed on the project.
• Excellent attention to detail and the ability to work in fast‑paced environments.
• Background & motor vehicle checks, and pre-employment drug screening are conditions of employment.

WHAT WILL MAKE YOU STAND OUT

• Current Commercial Driver's License is a plus.
• Self-motivated with an entrepreneurial spirit.
• Excellent problem-solving skills.
• Motivated to learn and develop your career path.
• Aligned to McKim & Creed's core values and culture.
• Sound functional/technical skills in the role.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP): ALL employees are owners & benefit from profits earned
• Competitive pay: PLUS paid holidays, bereavement, parental, medical, and military leave
• Multiple office locations to work from: Stick close to home or travel for a change of scenery
• Growth opportunities & training: Grow confidently in your career with our mentoring & training programs
• Professional development: Tuition reimbursement, early career professional program, online courses & more
• Work that makes a difference: See the direct impact your work has communities we serve, which is most like a community you live
• Collaborative, supportive team: People to help you solve problems, cheer successes & encourage you along the way

McKim & Creed is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and VEVRAA Federal Contractor and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status and maintains a Drug Free Workplace.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Protected Veterans / Individuals with Disabilities

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.