Entry-Level Construction Materials Engineering Technician

S&Me, Inc.; Knoxville (TN); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental & Vision

ESOP

401(k)

PTO & Holidays

Parental Leave

Recognition Program

Credential Incentive

Tuition Reimbursement

Company Vehicle

Referral Bonus

Job summary

S&M E is seeking an entry-level Construction Materials Engineering Technician to join our Knoxville Construction Services team. The role focuses on outdoor, hands-on testing of concrete, soils, and related materials to ensure quality and safety on active sites.

You will begin with basic sampling, then expand into soils, asphalt, and masonry while earning certifications through ACI and ICC. This is a full-time, field-oriented opportunity in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Willingness to learn and obtain certifications.
• Strong work ethic and team mindset.
• Good English communication—spoken and written.

Responsibilities

• Assist in field sampling and testing of concrete, soils, and related materials.
• Perform lab and field testing and document results accurately.
• Follow IBC codes and safety procedures; use PPE as required.
• Maintain and care for equipment; report data clearly.

Skills

English communication

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Work ethic

Willingness to learn

Education

High School diploma/GED

Job description

Entry-Level Construction Materials Engineering Technician

Requisition Number: 2026-1430-09

S&M E is looking for a hard-working Entry-Level Construction Materials Engineering Technician ready for hands-on learning to join our Construction Services team in Knoxville, Tennessee.

At S&M E, we have a history of delivering innovative geotechnical, civil, environmental, and construction material testing for over 50 years. Over the decades, we have grown into a trusted partner for clients across various industries, including transportation, energy, water, waste management, education, government, commercial, industrial, and more. Our commitment to technical excellence and integrity has established us as a leader in our field.

Why Work at S&M E?

• Career Growth: We invest in your success with mentorship, training, and leadership opportunities.
• Exciting Projects: Big or small, simple or complex, we do it all. Our projects are as diverse as they are exciting, so every day brings something new.
• Supportive Culture: Collaboration, respect, and positivity fuel our team environment.
• Flexibility: Work-life balance matters to us, helping you thrive inside and outside the office.
• Community Impact: Your work will directly improve the communities where we live, work, and play.

About The Role:

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&M E, 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.

• Start with the Basics: Begin with concrete sampling and testing, then expand into soils, asphalt, and masonry as you grow.
• 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 weekly work hours based on project needs and weather conditions, including early mornings, late evenings, weekends, possible holidays, and overtime (paid at time and a half).

About You:

• You have a High School diploma/GED
• You bring curiosity and the willingness to learn; obtaining certifications is part of your growth
• You have a strong work ethic and a team mindset
• You have strong attention to detail and effective communication skills in English, including speaking, reading, and writing
• You have basic math skills with an understanding of weight, volume, pressure, and units of measure
• You understand a fluctuating weekly schedule and occasional travel

You Are Willing and Able to:

Perform the physical demands of the position with the use of company-provided Personal Protective Equipment such as:

• Working the majority of the time outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Walking over rough, uneven terrain and standing for potentially up to 12 hours a day
• Routinely lifting and carrying 40-50lbs (field/laboratory samples and equipment)
• Maneuvering field equipment safely, such as a loaded wheelbarrow, on uneven ground around active construction sites

Grow With Us:

At S&M E, your career growth matters. You'll receive professional training, work on exciting projects, and be part of a company that truly invests in its people. This is more than a job; it's a chance to build a long-term career in the engineering and construction industry. S&M E provides a comprehensive benefits package to support you and your family, as well as career development resources. Come grow and thrive with us at S&M E!

• Medical, Dental & Vision Plans with HSA and FSA options
• 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with a 5% company contribution
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO) - with rollover options
• Paid Maternity/Parental Leave
• Employee Recognition Program
• Credential Incentive Program
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Company Vehicle with Fuel Card for Project-Based Work
• $2,000 Referral Bonuses & More!

Join us at S&M E!

This full-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&M E reserves the right to hire internally or externally at any time. No candidate/recruiter calls, personal calls, or walk-ins are accepted.