Entry Level Construction Observer – Springfield, Illinois

WHKS & Co; Springfield, Northern (IL, KY); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

WHKS & Co is seeking Civil Engineering personnel for on-site construction observation across central and northwestern Illinois. The role involves monitoring transportation and structural projects, verifying contractor work, and documenting material results throughout the project lifecycle.

Candidates should have 0–5+ years of civil engineering experience, a valid driver’s license, and the ability to read plans, perform field tests, and work in varying weather.

Qualifications

• 0–5+ years of Civil Engineering field experience.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Read and interpret construction documents, plans and specs.
• Ability to perform physical tasks (up to 50 lbs).
• Work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Responsibilities

• Perform construction observation for transportation and structural projects.
• Verify contractor work for compliance with plans and specifications.
• Conduct field material testing (concrete and asphalt).
• Prepare and document material reports, test results and sources.
• Maintain daily logs of inspections and address discrepancies.
• Prepare and review pay applications.
• Provide constructability reviews and CADD drafting support when needed.

Skills

Construction observation

Reading plans and specs

Communication skills

Physical stamina

Education

B.S. Civil Engineering

A.A.S. Civil Engineering Technology

Tools

MicroStation

OpenRoads Designer

Civil 3D

Bluebeam

Job description

This position is primarily on the construction site with locations in central and northwestern Illinois. WHKS strives to provide a flexible, supportive, and collaborative workplace where individuals can utilize and develop their strengths and pursue their interests in Civil Engineering. WHKS offers excellent compensation and benefits, as well as work schedule flexibility. Part-time and full-time positions are available.

Responsibilities Include:

• Perform construction observation for transportation and structural projects such as bridge replacement, bridge rehabilitation, box culvert replacement, new roadway, roadway rehabilitation, and parking lot and sidewalk construction.
• Construction observation tasks may include:
  • Verifying the quality of the contractor’s work and compliance with the plans and specifications.
  • Conducting field-required material testing such as concrete and asphalt testing.
  • Preparing and documenting material reports, test results and material sources.
  • Maintaining daily logs of inspections and reviewing any discrepancies with the appropriate parties.
  • Preparing and reviewing pay applications.
  • Performing project staking and layout. Verifying field dimensions and elevations to project plans.
• Provide constructability reviews, quality control reviews, and CADD drafting support for design projects if construction shuts down in the winter-season.

Qualifications Required:

• 0 – 5+ years of experience in Civil Engineering field.
• A valid driver’s license.
• Excellent computer and communication skills (both verbal and written).
  • Read and interpret construction documents, plans and specifications.
  • Perform physical tasks that may involve moving materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Operate equipment and tools safely and effectively.
  • Remain in a stationary position and/or move about the work site, including standing, walking, bending, and climbing, for extended periods.
  • Work in varying outdoor weather conditions or environments.

Preferred

• Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering or Construction or Associate Degree in Civil Engineering Technology or a related field.
• Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) construction inspection certifications.
• Ability to use basic survey equipment.
• Experience with Microsoft Office products, MicroStation, OpenRoads Designer, Civil 3D, and Bluebeam.