Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Project Manager

Introduction

RETTEW is seeking an experienced Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) Project Manager to support and grow our SUE team, based in either Pittsburgh, PA, or Akron, OH. This leadership-track position offers a balance of hands-on technical work, project management responsibility, and client engagement, with clear opportunities for advancement. The role is closely supported by the Regional Director and Vice President.

About RETTEW

RETTEW is a multi-discipline engineering, architecture, and consulting firm delivering integrated solutions across infrastructure, environmental, geotechnical, and field services markets. As a 100% employee-owned company, we are driven by collaboration, accountability, and long-term thinking. Our core values guide every decision, fuel every project, and empower every employee.

Work Environment

This is a hybrid role based out of RETTEW’s Pittsburgh, PA or Akron, OH office. Periodic regional travel is required to support field activities, project needs, and client engagement.

Position Summary

The Subsurface Utility Engineering Project Manager is responsible for managing SUE projects from proposal through delivery while ensuring technical accuracy, safety compliance, and client satisfaction. This role combines project management, technical leadership, team oversight, and relationship-building across utility, energy, development, and transportation markets.

Responsibilities / Day-to-Day

- Manage SUE projects in accordance with contract requirements, schedules, budgets, and professional standards

- Lead and mentor project teams of 1–5 staff, including field and technical personnel

- Serve as a technical resource for subsurface utility designating and investigation activities

- Coordinate and oversee field operations including utility locating, test holes, and data collection

- Maintain and grow client relationships within utility, energy, development, and transportation markets

- Prepare technical reports, exhibits, and deliverables consistent with ASCE 38-21 standards

- Ensure compliance with RETTEW’s safety culture and field safety requirements

- Support business development efforts and participate in professional organizations

Qualifications

Required

- 5–10+ years of hands-on utility locating and SUE experience

- Demonstrated experience managing projects with budgets up to $250K

- Working knowledge of ASCE 38-21 and SUE Quality Levels D through A

- Proficiency in subsurface utility designating methods including:

- Electromagnetics (EM)

- Metal detection

- Duct rodding

- Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)

- Experience locating water, sewer, gas, electric, fiber, telecom, storm, and sanitary utilities

- Experience managing air or hydro excavation (test hole) activities

- Strong verbal and written communication skills

- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities

- Commitment to safety, quality, and client service

Preferred

- Concrete scanning GPR and rebar mapping experience

- Experience with CCTV pipe inspection (storm/sanitary)

- Exposure to or interest in advanced geophysical methods (seismic, gravity, borehole, EM)

- GPS/GNSS surveying experience

- Surveying background with PA, MD, OH, or WV PLS licensure

- Multi-disciplinary project management experience

- Active participation in professional organizations

Safety & Compliance Requirements

This position is designated as safety-sensitive and requires successful completion of all pre-employment screenings as a condition of employment. Responsibilities include operating company-owned vehicles and performing field-based work in active construction and utility environments. Continued compliance with RETTEW’s safety policies is required throughout employment.

What We Offer

RETTEW offers a competitive salary aligned with experience, participation in the company’s Employee Stock Ownership Plan, and a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, retirement savings, and paid time off. Employees benefit from a strong safety culture, clear career advancement pathways, and a collaborative, technically engaged work environment.

RETTEW is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

If you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process, please contact us at [email protected] to request assistance.
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