Geotechnical Assistant Staff Professional - Special Projects Group

ECS Ltd; Chantilly (VA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

ECS Group is seeking a Geotechnical Assistant Staff Professional in Chantilly, VA to support field investigations, collect data, document site conditions, and assist senior staff while learning geotechnical methods. You will perform boring and test pit layout, help with drilling packages, and coordinate with field crews, contractors, and project teams.

A strong customer service mindset and teamwork are essential.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Earth Sciences, Engineering Technology, or related field is preferred.
• 2 years of related experience.
• If driving for or on behalf of any ECS subsidiary, a valid driver's license is required.
• Strong communication skills (verbal and written).
• Dependable, self-motivated, and responsible work ethic.
• Basic computer proficiency.
• Ability to work effectively in teams and independently.
• Basic knowledge of geotechnical principles and field testing methods.
• Familiarity with ASTM standards (developing).
• Experience with GPS/GIS systems and geotechnical field operations.
• Interest in project management, consulting, and business development.

Responsibilities

• Supports geotechnical field investigations and construction materials testing activities.
• Documents field observations for geotechnical and CMT work accurately and thoroughly.
• Performs boring and test pit layout using surveying and GPS methods.
• Prepares drilling packages and obtains utility clearances.
• Assists with supervision and coordination of drilling and test pit crews.
• Performs in-situ testing and soil classification.
• Conducts research on site conditions and local geologic history.
• Assists with the reduction and organization of geotechnical field data.
• Supports preparation of reports, proposals, and project documentation.
• Assists with project management tasks, including budgeting and invoicing support.
• Communicates with contractors, field personnel, and project teams.
• Performs other field, office, and project support tasks as assigned.

Skills

Strong communication

Dependable

Basic computer proficiency

Teamwork and independence

ASTM familiarity

GPS/GIS experience

Project management interest

Driver's license

Education

HS diploma or GED required

BS in Engineering/Earth Sciences/Engineering Technology or related field preferred

Tools

GPS/GIS systems

Job description

What You'll Do

The Geotechnical Assistant Staff Professional performs field-based tasks in support of geotechnical engineering projects under the direction of more senior staff. This role focuses on collecting field data, documenting site conditions, and assisting with project activities while gaining familiarity with geotechnical methods and practices. The Geotechnical Assistant Staff Professional develops technical skills and professional competency over time while maintaining a positive customer service attitude and demonstrating an understanding of ECS Core Values.

Responsibilities

• Supports geotechnical field investigations and construction materials testing activities
• Documents field observations for geotechnical and CMT work accurately and thoroughly
• Performs boring and test pit layout using surveying and GPS methods
• Prepares drilling packages and obtains utility clearances
• Assists with supervision and coordination of drilling and test pit crews
• Performs in-situ testing and soil classification
• Conducts research on site conditions and local geologic history
• Assists with the reduction and organization of geotechnical field data
• Supports preparation of reports, proposals, and project documentation
• Assists with project management tasks, including budgeting and invoicing support
• Communicates with contractors, field personnel, and project teams
• Performs other field, office, and project support tasks as assigned

What We’re Looking For

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
  • Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Earth Sciences, Engineering Technology, or related field is preferred
• 2 years of related experience
• If driving for or on behalf of any ECS subsidiary, a valid driver's license is required
• Strong communication skills (verbal and written)
• Dependable, self-motivated, and responsible work ethic
• Basic computer proficiency
• Ability to work effectively in teams and independently
• Basic knowledge of geotechnical principles and field testing methods
• Familiarity with ASTM standards (developing)
• Experience with GPS/GIS systems and geotechnical field operations
• Interest in project management, consulting, and business development

Military Qualifications

• The following US Military ranks would qualify for this position:
  • E-4

The expected pay range for this role and location is $26/hour. The final agreed-upon compensation will be determined based on specific location and other individual qualifications.

Who We Are

ECS Group of Companies (ECS) was founded in 1988 with the goal to raise the standards of professional engineering consulting. Today, we are a leader in geotechnical, construction materials, environmental and building science + infrastructure consulting services. We are employee-owned with more than 3,200 employees in 125 offices and testing facilities coast to coast. ECS is currently ranked #60 in Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms (April 2026), #144 in Engineering News-Record’s Top 200 Environmental Firms (October 2026) and #38 in Zweig Group’s Hot Firm List (June 2026). For additional information about ECS, visit: www.ecslimited.com.

ECS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To learn more, click here.