SUE Technician Career at Blew & Associates - Growth Role in Columbus
Career & Market Insight
The SUE Technician role at Blew & Associates offers a solid entry point into a specialized and growing niche within civil engineering and infrastructure services. Subsurface Utility Engineering is increasingly mandated on federally funded transportation projects (ASCE 38 standard), meaning demand for trained technicians is steady and not easily automated.
Skills you'll develop:
- Proficiency with GPR, electromagnetic locators, and RTK GPS — all highly transferable to geophysics, construction inspection, and GIS roles.
- Field data collection and documentation practices valued across engineering and surveying firms.
- Practical knowledge of utility infrastructure types and construction site safety.
Compensation & benefits assessment: No salary is listed, but entry-level SUE technicians in the US typically earn $18–$28/hour ($37K–$58K annually), with experienced technicians reaching $65K+. The benefits package here is notably strong for a field technician role — 95% medical coverage, 401(k) matching, tuition reimbursement ($5,250/year), and paid parental leave are well above industry norms for this level.
Green flags: Tuition reimbursement signals a pathway to advancement (e.g., engineering technologist certifications, PLS, or PE). The collaborative culture framing and ongoing training commitment suggest this is a company that invests in retention. Per diem and overtime incentives add meaningful earning potential beyond base pay.
Consideration: Career ceiling as a pure field technician is limited without further education — the tuition benefit is a smart tool to leverage for upward mobility into project management or engineering roles.
Join Blew & Associates, P.A. as a Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Technician and become a vital part of our field operations team! As a SUE Technician, you'll work on projects that involve detecting and mapping underground utilities, keeping safety and efficiency at the forefront of your efforts.
With hands-on training and access to cutting-edge SUE technology, you'll become an expert in operating advanced equipment like ground penetrating radar (GPR) and utility location tools. Your role is crucial in minimizing risks and ensuring smooth construction operations for our valued clients.
Your Responsibilities Will Include:
- Conducting field investigations using state-of-the-art SUE equipment
- Mapping and documenting underground utilities to provide essential data for construction projects
- Collaborating with other skilled professionals to ensure accuracy and efficiency in all operations
- Participating in ongoing training to enhance your knowledge and skills in SUE practices
- Maintaining a positive and proactive attitude while adapting to various work environments
Requirements
- Experience with Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)
- Experience with Electromagnetic Locators
- Experience with RTK GPS
- Competency in common utility infrastructure
- A high school diploma or equivalent; technical education is a plus
- Previous experience in construction, electrical, plumbing, and/or hydro-vac is beneficial but not required
- Previous experience in construction, utility services, or a related field is beneficial but not required
- Exceptional attention to detail and strong communication skills are essential for success in this role
- A willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies and processes is a must
- Physical ability to perform fieldwork in different weather conditions and environments
At Blew & Associates, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative environment where your contributions are valued and your professional growth is encouraged. Join us at BLEW!
Benefits
- 95% coverage of health benefits, including Medical and Dental, with optional family and/or dependent enrollment paid by the employee at a group rate
- 50% company contribution towards Vision coverage
- Tuition reimbursement (up to $5,250 per year)
- 401(k) matching program: company matches 100% of deferrals up to 3% of compensation, plus 50% of deferrals over 3% not exceeding 5% of compensation
- 100% employer-paid Short-Term Disability with employee buy-up options
- 100% employer-paid Life Insurance Coverage with employee buy-up options
- Holiday pay
- Sick pay
- Paid vacations
- Paid parental leave
- Per diem for any overnight stay
- Overtime incentives
- Possible year-end bonuses based on performance and tenure
- Apparel allotments for boots and work attire
- Company Truck
- Company-Paid Cell Phone
- Company Equipment
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this SUE Technician role remote or field-based?
Do I need a college degree to apply for this position?
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Does this job involve travel or overnight stays?
What is the 401(k) matching policy at Blew & Associates?
