Construction Materials Internship (Level 2)

Engineering Consulting Service; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 22,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

ECS Group of Companies is offering a Construction Materials Testing Intern Level 2 position in Charlottesville. You will perform routine field and laboratory testing with increasing independence, contributing to data collection, documentation, and testing activities while evolving knowledge of construction practices and standards.

The role emphasizes reliability, professionalism, and strong communication as you work with field staff, contractors, and project teams.

Qualifications

• 90 days of related experience
• At least one internship with ECS or another firm
• Pursuing an Associate, Bachelor, or Master degree in Civil Engineering or related field
• One certification must be completed within 90 days, and basic certifications within 270 days including Radiation Safety, Soils I, Concrete I
• Valid driver’s license if driving for ECS
• Strong communication skills (verbal and written)
• Dependable, detail-oriented, self-motivated
• Ability to work independently and in a team
• Knowledge of construction materials testing principles and standards
• Basic math and data interpretation
• Ability to read plans and interpret construction documents
• Proficiency with electronic devices and data entry tools
• Ability to work outdoors and lift equipment
• Must lift 85 pounds several times daily

Responsibilities

• Performs field observation and testing with guidance from senior staff
• Conducts routine testing of soil, concrete, asphalt, and other materials with increasing independence
• Documents field conditions and testing results in field reports
• Assists in preparation, organization, and maintenance of field and lab equipment
• Performs basic calculations, data reduction, and data entry
• Communicates with contractors, field staff, and project teams
• Notifies supervisors of changes in site conditions or testing needs
• Assists with laboratory testing including sample preparation and curing
• Maintains clean field and lab environments
• Participates in project meetings and coordination activities
• Assists with reviewing laboratory results and supporting project documentation
• Performs other duties as assigned

Job description

What You’ll Do

The Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Intern Level 2 performs routine field and laboratory testing tasks in support of construction materials testing projects with increasing independence. This role builds on foundational experience to contribute more actively to data collection, documentation, and testing activities while continuing to develop knowledge of construction practices, materials testing standards, and project workflows. The CMT Intern Level 2 demonstrates growing technical competency, reliability, and professionalism while maintaining a positive customer service attitude and demonstrating ECS Core Values.

• Performs construction materials observation and testing in the field with guidance from senior staff
• Conducts routine testing of soil, concrete, asphalt, and other materials with increasing independence
• Documents field conditions and testing results in accurate and timely field reports
• Assists in the preparation, organization, and maintenance of field and laboratory equipment
• Performs basic calculations, data reduction, and data entry tasks
• Communicates with contractors, field staff, and project teams regarding testing activities and site conditions
• Notifies supervisors of changes in site conditions, testing needs, or potential issues
• Assists with laboratory testing, including sample preparation, curing, and testing procedures
• Maintains organized and clean field and laboratory work environments
• Participates in project-related meetings and coordination activities as requested
• Assists with reviewing laboratory results and supporting project documentation
• Performs other duties as assigned

What We’re Looking For

Required Qualifications

• 90 days of related experience
  • At least one internship with ECS or another firm
• 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
  • Additional certifications applicable to the work performed may be required for Level 2
• 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 self-motivated work ethic
• Ability to work effectively both independently and within a team
• Developing knowledge of construction materials testing principles and standards
• Basic math and data interpretation skills
• Ability to read plans, follow directions, and interpret construction documents
• Proficiency with electronic devices and data entry tools
• Ability to work in outdoor environments and lift required equipment
• 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

The expected pay range for this role and location is $16-$18/hour. The final agreed-upon compensation will be determined based on specific location and other individual qualifications.

Please note: relocation assistance is not provided for this position.

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 3,200 employees in 125 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.