Utilities Engineer in Preston

Part of the VolkerWessels UK Group, VolkerStevin is an industry-leading civil engineering business, providing complex and innovative engineering solutions across a wide range of sectors including maritime, flood risk management, defence, energy, water and regeneration. Collaborating with, and drawing on the specialist skills of the group's business units we deliver a truly integrated, multidisciplinary service.

We are seeking an experienced Utility Surveyor to join our civil engineering team. This role is essential for ensuring safe, compliant, and high-quality excavation practices across major infrastructure projects. The successful candidate will lead the Permit to Dig (PTD) process and deliver advanced Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey support - including data capture and post-processing - throughout pre-construction and all active project phases.

• Permit to Dig (PTD) Assurance
  • Lead and manage the Permit to Dig process across multiple sites.
  • Review and verify all utility information, survey outputs, and excavation plans.
  • Mentor site teams on safe-digging techniques and PTD standards.
  • Conduct on-site audits and support PTD compliance monitoring.
• Utility Surveying, GPR Operation & Post-Processing
  • Carry out advanced utility surveys using GPR, EML, and other detection technologies.
  • Help compile PAS128 Survey scope documents and review/verify results.
  • Post-process GPR data using industry-standard subsurface interpretation software.
  • Accurately interpret survey results to identify utilities, anomalies, voids, and risks.
  • Produce PAS128-compliant survey deliverables including drawings, models, and reports.
  • Provide ongoing GPR support during construction activities, including validation scans.
• Project Support Throughout the Lifecycle
  • Support pre-construction teams in identifying utility risks early.
  • Collaborate with engineers and designers to integrate utility data into plans.
  • Participate in design reviews, coordination meetings, and risk workshops.
  • Provide expert advice on utility conflicts and safe excavation strategies.
• Leadership & Collaboration
  • Mentor junior surveyors and support professional development.
  • Build strong working relationships with project teams, clients, and service providers.
  • Promote innovation in digital surveying and utility detection technologies.

• Essential
  • Extensive experience as a Utility Surveyor in civil engineering or major infrastructure.
  • Expert operation of GPR and EML equipment with strong interpretation skills.
  • ProQual Level 5 Diploma in Utility Mapping & Surveying (or progressing toward completion).
  • Proven experience in GPR post-processing using recognised platforms (e.g., GSSI, IDS, Leica).
  • Strong working knowledge of PAS128 standards.
  • Demonstrable experience managing Permit to Dig processes.
  • Proficient CAD skills for producing accurate survey drawings.
  • Excellent accuracy, analytical skills, and problem-solving ability.
  • CSCS card (essential for site access).
  • CAT & Genny qualification (essential).
  • HSG47 training or equivalent utility avoidance training (essential).
  • Full UK driving licence.
• Desirable
  • NVQ Level 3/4 in Utility Surveying or similar technical qualifications.
  • Experience on Tier 1 contractor projects or within major UK infrastructure programmes.
  • Experience with BIM workflows, point cloud integration, or digital twins.

If your past experience doesn't match perfectly with every requirement of the job description, we still encourage you to apply. You may be just the right candidate for us.

VolkerStevin is under the umbrella of VolkerWessels UK which is a multidisciplinary contractor that delivers innovative engineering solutions across the civil engineering and construction sectors including rail, highways, airport, marine, energy, water, and environmental infrastructure. By utilising the specialist skills of each business unit within VolkerWessels UK, VolkerStevin are able to ensure our staff provide unrivalled resources and expertise to our clients.

We offer competitive rewards and benefits, recognising the value we place on our employees. We offer a range of benefits, including:

• Competitive salary
• Competitive annual leave and an additional day off on your birthday
• Option to buy additional annual leave
• Private medical care
• Pension
• Life Assurance
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Shopping and restaurants vouchers, rewards, and discounts
• Training and development opportunities - comprehensive skills-based training
• Family friendly policies including enhanced maternity benefits
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Mental health, physical health, and financial support
• 24/7 Virtual GP service

Fairness, inclusion and respect are core values at VolkerWessels UK. We believe in pushing boundaries in the pursuit of these values, ensuring our teams can be comfortable that, whatever their background, VolkerWessels UK is a place where they can be themselves and thrive.