Geotechnical Assistant Staff Project Manager - Special Projects Group

ECS Group of Companies; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 34,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

ECS Group of Companies in Richmond, VA seeks a Geotechnical Assistant Staff Project Manager. This field‑based role supports subsurface exploration, data collection, and early project coordination to build foundational skills in geotechnical engineering and project workflows.

The position emphasizes hands-on field activities, documentation, and collaboration with field crews. Training emphasizes ECS Core Values and customer service while developing PM and consulting capabilities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor-level degree in Civil Engineering, Geological Engineering, Geology, or similar.
• 0 years of related experience.
• Valid driver’s license if driving for ECS subsidiary.
• Strong communication skills (verbal and written).
• Self-motivated and responsible work ethic; ability to work in teams and independently.
• Basic understanding of geotechnical principles (developing).
• Interest in project management, consulting, and business development.

Responsibilities

• Supports geotechnical field investigations and subsurface exploration activities.
• 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.
• Documents field observations and testing results accurately.
• Communicates site conditions and testing needs to project staff.
• Conducts research on local geologic conditions.
• Assists with preparation of calculations, reports, and project documentation.
• Supports project lifecycle activities, including planning and execution.
• Interfaces with contractors and field personnel on project sites.
• Performs other field and project support tasks as assigned.

Skills

Strong communication

Self-motivated

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelors or Masters in Civil Engineering

Geological Engineering

Geology

Tools

GPS

Job description

The Geotechnical Assistant Staff Project Manager supports geotechnical engineering projects through field investigations, data collection, and early project coordination activities. This role is primarily field-based and provides foundational experience in subsurface exploration, documentation, and project workflows. The Geotechnical Assistant Staff Project Manager develops technical, consulting, and project management skills while maintaining a positive customer service attitude and demonstrating an understanding of ECS Core Values.

Responsibilities

• Supports geotechnical field investigations and subsurface exploration activities
• 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
• Documents field observations and testing results accurately
• Communicates site conditions and testing needs to project staff
• Conducts research on local geologic conditions
• Assists with preparation of calculations, reports, and project documentation
• Supports project lifecycle activities, including planning and execution
• Interfaces with contractors and field personnel on project sites
• Performs other field and project support tasks as assigned

Required Qualifications

• 0 years of related experience
• Bachelor and/or Master of Science in Civil Engineering, Geological Engineering, Geology, or similar is required
• If driving for, or on behalf of, any ECS subsidiary, a valid driver’s license is required
• Strong communication skills (verbal and written)
• Self-motivated and responsible work ethicAbility to work effectively in teams and independently
• Basic understanding of geotechnical principles (developing)
• Limited knowledge of construction materials testing and ASTM standards
• Interest in project management, consulting, and business development
• Attention to detail in field observations and documentation

Military Qualifications

The following US Military ranks will qualify for this position IF they also meet the education and licenses requirements from the above section titled "Required Qualifications":

• E-5

The expected pay range for this role and location is $25-$35/hour. The final agreed-upon compensation will be determined based on specific location and other individual qualifications.

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), #148 in Engineering News-Record’s Top 200 Environmental Firms (October 2025) 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.