Construction Materials Internship (Level 1)

Engineering Consulting Service; Buffalo Grove (IL); On-site; USD 26,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

ECS Group of Companies (ECS) is seeking a Construction Materials Testing Intern Level I to observe and assist with routine field and laboratory testing tasks. You will help with data collection, documentation, and testing activities under supervision while gaining practical knowledge of soils, concrete, asphalt, and other materials.

The role emphasizes building foundational technical skills, strong customer service, and a collaborative approach in a safety-conscious environment.

Qualifications

• Pursuing an Associate, Bachelor, or Master in Civil Engineering or related field.
• 0 years of related experience.
• Certifications must be completed within stated timeframes (Radiation Safety, Soils I, Concrete I).
• Valid driver's license if driving for ECS.
• Strong communication skills (verbal and written).
• Dependable, detail-oriented, and organized work ethic.
• Able to work independently or in a team.
• Able to lift up to 85 pounds repeatedly.

Responsibilities

• Assists with construction materials observation and testing in field and lab.
• Observes and participates in testing of soil, concrete, asphalt, and other materials.
• Documents site conditions and testing results in field reports.
• Assists with preparing and organizing field and laboratory equipment.
• Performs basic data entry, calculations, and data reduction tasks.
• Communicates with field staff, contractors, and project team members.
• Keeps supervisors informed of changing site conditions or testing needs.
• Supports laboratory testing activities, including sample prep, curing, and testing.
• Maintains cleanliness and organization of field and lab work areas.
• Notifies supervisors of damaged or missing equipment.
• Attends project meetings with senior staff as requested.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills

Field testing

Laboratory testing

Documentation

Data entry

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Civil Engineering degree (in progress)

Job description

What You'll Do

The Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Intern Level I observes and begins performing routine field and laboratory testing tasks in support of construction materials testing projects. This role assists with data collection, documentation, and testing activities under the direction of more experienced staff while gaining familiarity with construction practices, materials testing methods, and project workflows. The CMT Intern Level I develops foundational technical skills and professional competencies while maintaining a positive customer service attitude and demonstrating ECS Core Values.

Responsibilities

• Assists with construction materials observation and testing activities in the field and laboratory
• Observes and participates in testing of soil, concrete, asphalt, and other construction materials
• Documents site conditions and testing results accurately in field reports
• Assists with the preparation and organization of field and laboratory equipment
• Performs basic data entry, calculations, and data reduction tasks
• Communicates with field staff, contractors, and project team members
• Keeps supervisors informed of changing site conditions or additional testing needs
• Assists with reviewing laboratory results and supporting project documentation
• Supports laboratory testing activities, including sample preparation, curing, and testing
• Maintains cleanliness and organization of field and laboratory work areas
• Notifies supervisors of damaged or missing equipment
• Attends project meetings with senior staff as requested
• Performs other duties as assigned

What We're Looking For

Required Qualifications

• 0 years of related experience
• Must be pursuing an Associate, Bachelor, or Master degree in Civil Engineering, or other degree related to our services
• One certification must be completed within the 90-day introductory period, and all basic certifications must be completed within 270 days of employment, including: Radiation Safety, Soils I, and Concrete I
• If driving for or on behalf of any ECS subsidiary, a valid driver's license is required
• Strong communication skills (verbal and written)
• Dependable, detail-oriented, and organized work ethic
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Ability to follow directions and work under close supervision
• Basic problem-solving and observational skills
• Willingness to work in outdoor environments and field conditions
• Must be able to lift a minimum of 85 pounds a number of times each day

Military Qualifications

The following US Military ranks would qualify for this position:

• E-4

Please note: relocation assistance is not provided for this position

The expected pay range for this role and location is $19-$22/hour. The final agreed-upon compensation will be determined based on specific location and other individual qualifications.

Who We Are

ECS Group of Companies (ECS) was founded in 1988 with the goal to raise the standards of professional engineering consulting. Today, we are a leader in geotechnical, construction materials, environmental and building science + infrastructure consulting services. We are employee-owned with more than 3,00 employees in 100+ offices and testing facilities coast to coast. ECS is currently ranked #60 in Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms (April 2026), #148 in Engineering News-Record’s Top 200 Environmental Firms (October 2025) and #38 in Zweig Group’s Hot Firm List (June 2026). For additional information about ECS, visit: www.ecslimited.com.

ECS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.