Surveying - Level 4 SUE Lead / Party Chief (5-10 yrs exp)

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.

Key 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)

• 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.

• Maintain project productivity while ensuring safety and accuracy.

• Communicate field findings and potential conflicts to project stakeholders.

Skills

• Leadership and crew supervision

• Advanced utility locating techniques

• Field data management and QA/QC

• Problem solving and decision making

• Communication with engineers, contractors, and project managers

Work Environment

• Primarily outdoor field work in transportation corridors, construction sites, and urban infrastructure areas

• Regular travel to project sites

• May involve night work or traffic control operations

• Occasional lifting of equipment up to 50 lbs