Environmental Field Technician

UES; Topeka (KS); On-site; USD 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

UES is seeking an Environmental Field Technician to work indoors and outdoors, often in challenging environments with regional travel. The role rewards grit, reliability, and a strong work ethic as you collect samples, operate systems, and document field data.

You will join a large team of engineers and technicians, with opportunities to grow safety skills. Travel up to 70% may be required, and lifting up to 50 lbs is anticipated in this hands-on position.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; vocational training is a plus.
• 0–3 years in a field-based outdoor role preferred (enviro/construction/geotech).
• Valid driver's license with clean driving record; safe operation of company vehicles.
• Basic computer skills; familiarity with Word/Excel; good data recording.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, set up, and maintain equipment for sampling events.
• Collect groundwater samples using pumps or bailers and prepare them for shipment.
• Conduct field inspections, operate remediation systems, record data, troubleshoot issues, and perform repairs.
• Walk routes through industrial/outdoor settings to visually inspect equipment.
• Perform pumping operations with a vacuum truck (training provided).
• Repair well heads and related equipment.
• Document and report field data accurately using Word and Excel.

Skills

Hardworking & gritty

Dependable

Resourceful

Team‑Oriented

Flexible

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Outlook

Job description

Overview

At UES, we’re a team of more than 4,000 engineers, scientists, geologists, inspectors, technicians, and drillers united by a shared purpose—to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. As a national leader in geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, and materials testing and inspection, we collaborate on transformative projects across transportation, energy, water, healthcare, and more. Learn more about the benefits of joining Team UES and our core values at careers.teamues.com.

Position Overview

The Environmental Field Technician role is well-suited for individuals who don’t mind getting their hands dirty, thrive in physically demanding environments, and take pride in tackling tough challenges. This is a hands‑on role that requires grit, reliability, and a strong work ethic. You’ll work both indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions, often in physically challenging environments, with occasional regional travel. The position is a great fit for someone who enjoys problem‑solving in the field, is eager to learn, and can keep accurate records while staying safety‑focused.

Overview

At UES, we’re a team of more than 4,000 engineers, scientists, geologists, inspectors, technicians, and drillers united by a shared purpose—to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. As a national leader in geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, and materials testing and inspection, we collaborate on transformative projects across transportation, energy, water, healthcare, and more. Learn more about the benefits of joining Team UES and our core values at careers.teamues.com.

Position Overview

The Environmental Field Technician role is well-suited for individuals who don’t mind getting their hands dirty, thrive in physically demanding environments, and take pride in tackling tough challenges. This is a hands‑on role that requires grit, reliability, and a strong work ethic. You’ll work both indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions, often in physically challenging environments, with occasional regional travel. The position is a great fit for someone who enjoys problem‑solving in the field, is eager to learn, and can keep accurate records while staying safety‑focused.

The Ideal Candidate

We’re looking for someone who isn’t afraid of hard work and brings determination to every task:

• Hardworking & Gritty – Willing to roll up your sleeves and do physically demanding work in all types of weather.
• Dependable – Shows up consistently, keeps commitments, and takes ownership of responsibilities.
• Resourceful – Tackles problems head‑on, learns quickly, and adapts to new situations.
• Team‑Oriented – Works well with others, communicates effectively, and contributes to a positive team environment.
• Flexible – Able to handle changing priorities, multiple projects, and occasional travel/overtime.

If this sounds like you, and you’re ready to build your technical skills in a supportive but fast‑paced environment, we’d love for you to apply.

Responsibilities

Duties may vary based on business needs.

• Prepare, set up, and maintain equipment for sampling events.
• Collect groundwater samples using pumps or bailers and prepare them for shipment.
• Conduct field inspections, operate remediation systems, record data, troubleshoot issues, and perform repairs and maintenance.
• Walk routes through industrial and outdoor settings to visually inspect equipment.
• Perform pumping operations with a vacuum truck (training provided).
• Repair well heads and related equipment.
• Document and report field data accurately using Microsoft Word and Excel.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; vocational training or coursework in construction, engineering, geology, or a related field is a plus.
• 0-3 years of experience in a field‑based, outdoor, or physically demanding role preferred (environmetnal, construction, materials testing, geotechnical, or related industry experience is a plus).
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record; ability to operate company‑assigned vehicles safely.
• Basic computer proficiency, including experience with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook)
• Mathematical skills sufficient to add, subtract, multiply, and divide into all units of measure using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
• Ability to read, write, and interpret blueprints, procedures, manuals, technical documents
• Ability to perform physical tasks, including lifting and carrying equipment weighing up to 50 lbs., standing for extended periods, and working in various weather and environmental conditions.
• Efficient time management, organizational, and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to complete tasks efficiently and accurately.
• Attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, demonstrating a strong work ethic and commitment to producing high‑quality results.
• Flexibility to work varying schedules, including early mornings, weekends, overtime, and potential overnight travel as project demands require.

Travel Requirements

• This position requires extensive travel, approximately up to 70% of the time, in support of business objectives and client engagements. Travel may be both scheduled and on short notice, depending on project needs. Destinations typically include job sites, field locations, or regional offices, where work may be conducted in outdoor or operational environments. Adherence to all company safety protocols and use of PPE is required during travel and on‑site work.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Must be comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions (hot, cold, wet, humid, dusty, and noisy environments).
• Expect long hours on your feet, repetitive motions, and physically intensive tasks.
• Approximately 90% field work and 10% office work.
• Ability to climb, crawl, crouch, kneel, stoop, and work in confined spaces such as crawlspaces and attics.
• Frequent use of PPE, including respirators.
• Ability to lift and move up to 50 lbs regularly.
• May be required to drive long distances (hundreds of miles per day) and work occasional overtime or overnight shifts.
• Limited regional travel may be required, including some overnight stays.

EEO Statement

UES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is proud to recruit the most qualified candidates. Please see our full EEO Statement at the bottom of the page here