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KPFF Consulting Engineers

Surveying - SUE Project Manager

4w

KPFF Consulting Engineers

Los Angeles, US · Full-time · $60,000 – $75,000

About this role

The Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Lead manages field crews responsible for locating, designating, and mapping underground utilities. This role serves as the field authority for SUE investigations and ensures all work is completed according to project requirements, quality standards, and ASCE 38-22 guidelines. The SUE Lead oversees field operations, coordinates with project managers, and ensures accurate utility documentation.

Lead and supervise SUE field crews performing utility designation, locating, and mapping. Operate advanced detection equipment including electromagnetic locators, GPR, and GPS/Total Station systems. Interpret utility records, plans, and GIS data prior to field investigation and ensure accurate documentation including sketches and digital reports.

Primarily outdoor field work in transportation corridors, construction sites, and urban infrastructure areas. Regular travel to project sites, with possible night work or traffic control operations. Coordinate with project managers, survey/SUE teams, engineers, and contractors, and conduct quality assurance checks to ensure compliance with ASCE 38-22 standards.

KPFF's purpose is to engineer opportunities, focusing on solving problems and enabling the growth of its people. This role includes training and mentoring junior staff such as SUE Assistants and Technicians Level II/III. The company offers a career development program and a flexible work schedule to support professional growth.

Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED
  • 8+ years of experience in SUE, utility locating, or surveying/mapping
  • Experience operating Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) and electromagnetic locating equipment
  • Valid driver’s license with clean driving record
  • Strong leadership and field coordination experience
  • Advanced knowledge of ASCE 38-22 SUE standards
  • OSHA 30 certification
  • Experience with GIS, CAD data collection, or survey software

Responsibilities

  • Lead and supervise SUE field crews performing utility designation, utility locating field services, and mapping.
  • Operate advanced utility detection equipment including electromagnetic locators, Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), and GPS / Total Station systems.
  • Interpret utility records, plans, and GIS data prior to field investigation.
  • Ensure accurate field documentation including sketches, digital data collection, and reports.
  • Coordinate with project managers, survey/SUE teams, engineers, and contractors.
  • Conduct quality assurance checks to ensure compliance with project and ASCE 38-22 standards.
  • Manage daily crew activities including safety briefings, equipment readiness, and scheduling.
  • Train and mentor junior staff such as SUE Assistants and Technicians Level II/III.

Benefits

  • Medical and life insurance
  • Vacation, sick, and holiday pay
  • Three percent 401k contributions with no matching requirements
  • Bonus compensation
  • Flexible work schedule
  • Career development program