Entry-Level Construction Materials Engineering Technician

S&ME; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 20,664 - 34,440; Part time

Job summary

S&ME is seeking a part-time Entry-Level Construction Materials Engineering Technician in Columbia, South Carolina. This role offers hands-on learning, where you'll start with concrete sampling, expanding your skills as you progress in various materials testing.

The ideal candidate will have a high school diploma/GED and the ability to learn quickly. You will work outdoors in diverse weather conditions, requiring a strong work ethic and attention to detail.

This position provides competitive pay based on experience and supports your ongoing professional growth.

Qualifications

• Curiosity and willingness to learn; obtaining certifications is part of your growth.
• Strong work ethic and a team mindset.
• Understanding of a fluctuating schedule and occasional travel.

Responsibilities

• Perform concrete sampling and testing, expanding into soils, asphalt, and masonry.
• Conduct inspections per IBC codes and manage data using Metafield®.
• Maintain testing equipment and ensure accurate reporting.

Skills

Strong attention to detail

Effective communication skills in English

Basic math skills

Education

High school diploma/GED

Job description

Requisition Number

2026-1610-11

S&ME is looking for a hard‑working part‑time Entry‑Level Construction Materials Engineering Technician ready for hands‑on learning to join our Construction Services team in Columbia, South Carolina.

As an entry‑level Construction Materials Engineering Technician, you enjoy starting your day outdoors and take pride in hands‑on work that impacts the projects you work on. Each day brings new challenges as you help ensure construction quality and safety while growing your technical skills. At S&ME, our Construction Materials Engineering Technicians are vital to ensuring construction projects meet quality and safety standards. From day one, you’ll be in the field gaining hands‑on experience and building a strong foundation for your career.

Your Day‑to‑Day

• Start with the basics: Begin with concrete sampling and testing, then expand into soils, asphalt, and masonry as your expertise grows.
• Earn while you learn: Receive paid, on‑the‑job training and support for certifications through ACI and ICC.
• Outdoor work environment: Enjoy working outside year‑round in changing conditions, with new sites and crews keeping things fresh.
• Testing & documentation: Perform field and lab tests, maintain equipment, and ensure accurate, complete reporting.
• Inspections & standards: Conduct inspections per IBC codes, document findings, and manage data using Metafield®.

Experience shifting work hours based on project needs and weather conditions, including early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and overtime (paid at time and a half).

What You Bring

• A high school diploma/GED
• The curiosity and willingness to learn; obtaining certifications is part of your growth
• A strong work ethic and a team mindset
• Strong attention to detail and effective communication skills in English, including speaking, reading, and writing
• Basic math skills with an understanding of weight, volume, pressure, and units of measure
• The understanding of a fluctuating schedule and occasional travel

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

• Working the majority of the time outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Walking over rough, uneven terrain and standing for potentially long periods
• Routinely lifting and carrying 40‑50 lbs (field/laboratory samples and equipment)
• Working outside of normal business hours when necessary

We Are S&ME

At S&ME, we’re committed to your growth, professionally and personally. With over 50 years of experience delivering innovative solutions in geotechnical, civil, environmental, and construction materials engineering, we’ve built a strong foundation for long‑term careers. Our team of over 1,000 employee‑owners across 10+ states collaborates to create a meaningful impact for our clients and communities. When you join S&ME, you become part of a collaborative, honest, and people‑focused culture that invests in your success. We offer exciting project opportunities, ongoing training, and a comprehensive benefits package to support you and your family. This is more than a job; it’s a place to grow, thrive, and build a future.

This part‑time role offers competitive pay based on experience. Candidates must comply with our Fleet Management, Substance Policy, and Reference Check requirements. Only candidates with valid employment eligibility (I‑9) will be considered. Visa assistance is not available. S&ME reserves the right to hire internally or externally at any time. No candidate/recruiter calls, personal calls, or walk‑ins are accepted.