Concrete Research Engineer

Hawkins Construction Company; Omaha (NE); On-site; USD 21,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Highly competitive wages

Company paid health insurance

Life Insurance

Paid vacation

Internal and external training

Bonuses based on performance

Paid vacation

Paid holidays

Training and advancement opportunities

Job summary

A major construction firm in Omaha is seeking a motivated Research Assistant to support innovation in recycled concrete aggregate. The role includes operating equipment, conducting quality control tests, and coordinating with university teams. Candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or related field along with hands-on testing experience. This position offers highly competitive wages, health insurance, and opportunities for advancement.

Qualifications

• Experience with laboratory and field testing of construction materials.
• Familiarity with aggregate testing and QC procedures.

Responsibilities

• Operate equipment to produce carbonated aggregate.
• Perform quality control testing of aggregate.
• Coordinate with university research assistants.
• Conduct studies to source recycled concrete and explore market opportunities in other states; coordinate with third‑party engineers on plant design iterations.

Skills

Strong work ethic

Teamwork

Problem-solving

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or related field

Pursuing with relevant hands-on experience

Tools

Laboratory equipment

Field testing equipment

Job description

About the Role

We are seeking a motivated, hands‑on Research Assistant to support our innovation in recycled concrete aggregate and sustainable materials. This role blends fieldwork, laboratory testing, academic coordination, and engineering design.

Core Duties

Carbonated Aggregate Production

• Operate and maintain equipment (skid loader, generator, compressor) to produce carbonated aggregate daily.
• Monitor tank pressurization and operating conditions under Hawkins safety standards.

Quality Control Testing

• Perform aggregate QC, including LA abrasion and crush value testing.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment on site.

University & Research Coordination

• Partner with UNO graduate assistants to deliver rock material, compare results, and analyze third‑party research and technical papers.

Market Research

• Conduct studies to source recycled concrete and explore market opportunities in other states.
• Coordinate with third‑party engineers on treatment plant design iterations.
• Provide engineering input and design support to reduce reliance on outside consultants.

Traits Required

• Strong work ethic
• Strong desire to advance
• Teamwork
• Problem‑solving

Required Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Construction Management, or related field (or currently pursuing with relevant hands‑on experience).
• Familiarity with laboratory and field testing of construction materials (aggregate testing, concrete testing, QC procedures).

Preferred Experience

• Hands‑on research experience with recycled concrete aggregate, carbonated aggregate production, or sustainable construction technologies.
• Knowledge of landfill operations, debris recycling, and/or wastewater treatment plant commissioning.
• Familiarity with environmental compliance reporting and sustainability certifications.

Benefits

• Highly competitive wages.
• Company paid health insurance for the employee and dependent(s).
• Life Insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Company paid pension plan.
• Performance based bonuses.
• Paid vacation.
• Paid holidays.
• Internal and external training to improve skills and provide advancement opportunities.

Employment Details

• Seniority level: Internship
• Employment type: Full‑time
• Job function: Research, Analyst, and Information Technology
• Industries: Construction