Concrete Research Engineer

Hawkins Construction Company; Omaha (NE); On-site; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Highly competitive wages

Company paid health insurance

Life Insurance

Paid vacation

Internal and external training

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.

Skills

Strong work ethic

Teamwork

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or related field

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