Field Geotechnical Engineer / Geologist (Nuclear)

S&ME; Knoxville (TN); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental & Vision Plans

100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

401(k) Retirement Plan

Paid Time Off (PTO) with rollover options

Tuition Reimbursement

Job summary

S&ME, located in Knoxville, Tennessee, is seeking a Geotechnical Engineer or Geologist to support high-profile projects in the nuclear sector. The position demands travel and involves extensive fieldwork, including subsurface exploration and data analysis. Ideal candidates should have a Bachelor's degree and field experience, with opportunities for growth in a collaborative environment.

The role offers a full-time contract with competitive pay and a robust benefits package including medical, dental, vision plans, and a 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan. Candidates can expect a focus on career development and skill advancement.

Qualifications

• 2 years of experience in geotechnical engineering, geology, or consulting.
• Experience working on nuclear projects or in highly regulated environments is a plus.
• EIT, GIT, Professional Engineer (PE), or Professional Geologist (PG) is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Support civil, geotechnical, and environmental projects focused on nuclear project sites.
• Conduct fieldwork including soil borings and drilling oversight.
• Analyze subsurface conditions and interpret geological and geotechnical data.
• Prepare technical reports and develop engineering recommendations.

Skills

Field subsurface exploration experience

Technical capability

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Geology, or a related field

Job description

Requisition: 2026-2690-01

Are you a geotechnical engineer or geologist in training who would be interested in exploring the opportunity to work on high-profile, complex projects within the nuclear sector?

S&ME is excited about the nuclear project work we are pursuing and seeking additional team members eager to apply their geotechnical or geological knowledge to contribute to the success of these projects. This position requires traveling out of state for months at a time, supporting not only nuclear projects but also expanding your skill set and exposure to other markets throughout the organization. This individual has the flexibility to be in Knoxville, Charlotte, Raleigh, Columbia, Atlanta, Greenville-Spartanburg, and Columbus.

What You Will Do:

As a Geotechnical Engineer or Geologist, you will support a wide range of civil, geotechnical, and environmental projects with a focus on nuclear project sites. Project types may include site selection and due diligence, field exploration, and/or construction quality assurance services supporting new nuclear facility permitting, licensing, and construction. Nuclear facilities generically include traditional light water reactors, small modular reactors, uranium enrichment facilities, and fuel fabrication facilities.

Field Investigations & Exploration

• Conduct fieldwork, including soil borings, drilling oversight, monitoring well installation, and in-situ testing
• Perform soil and rock classification and oversee the collection of soil, groundwater, and gas samples
• Lead and support subsurface exploration activities in complex and regulated environments, including nuclear project sites

Data Analysis & Technical Support

• Analyze subsurface conditions and interpret geological and geotechnical data
• Support laboratory testing programs and evaluate results for engineering and environmental applications
• Assist in developing engineering recommendations based on field and laboratory data

Reporting & Documentation

• Prepare data tables, figures, and graphical presentations
• Compare findings to state and federal regulatory standards
• Develop clear, well-organized technical reports for client and regulatory review

Construction & Environmental Inspections

• Perform construction and environmental inspections
• Document site conditions and ensure compliance with project plans, specifications, and regulatory requirements
• Support quality assurance and field verification activities

Collaboration & Communication

• Coordinate with drilling contractors, laboratories, vendors, and project teams
• Communicate effectively with internal staff, clients, and regulatory stakeholders
• Contribute to project planning and execution through clear technical communication

Who We're Looking For:

We are seeking a motivated and experienced professional who enjoys the field and is comfortable operating in demanding project environments. The ideal candidate brings strong field experience, technical capability, detailed and well organized, and adaptability, with an interest in supporting complex projects, including those in the nuclear sector.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Geology, or a related field
• 2 years of experience in geotechnical engineering, geology, or consulting
• Field subsurface exploration experience is required
• Experience working on nuclear projects or in highly regulated environments is a plus
• EIT, GIT, Professional Engineer (PE), or Professional Geologist (PG) is a plus

Work Schedule & Conditions:

• Ability to travel and work a rotational schedule: 10 days on / 4 days off during field assignments (returning home between rotations)
• Significant fieldwork supporting subsurface exploration on nuclear project sites
• Work outdoors in varying weather conditions and on uneven terrain
• Ability to stand for extended periods (up to 12+ hours)
• Routinely lift and carry 40-50 lbs of equipment and samples

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 1,000+ employee-owners across 10+ states works together to create 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.

Here's what you can look forward to:

• Medical, Dental & Vision Plans with HSA and FSA options
• Wellness Program - $50 off per month on your 2027 premiums!
• Pet Insurance
• 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
• Mentorship & Career Development Programs
• Credential Incentive Program - get rewarded for advancing your skills
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Recognition Program
• Company Vehicle & Fuel Card - for project-based roles
• $2,000 Employee Referral Bonuses - and more!

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&ME reserves the right to hire internally or externally at any time.