Geotechnical Field Technician

Engineering Consulting Service; Buffalo Grove, Northern (IL, KY); On-site; USD 30,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

ECS Group of Companies is seeking a Geotechnical Field Technician for field-based testing and observation in Buffalo Grove, IL. You will perform boring layouts, soil classification, DCP testing, logging, and data documentation while coordinating with project managers and team members.

The role emphasizes hands-on field work, safety, and ongoing certification within 90–270 days. A driving license is required when operating for ECS subsidiaries.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 0 years of related experience.
• One certification must be completed within 90 days, and all basic certifications within 270 days: Radiation Safety, Soils I, Concrete I.
• Additional certifications may be required.
• Valid driver's license if driving for ECS.
• Strong communication skills (verbal and written).
• Basic math skills.
• Ability to read maps, follow directions, and interpret construction plans.
• Dependable, detail-oriented, and responsible work ethic.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to work in field conditions, including varying weather and site environments.

Responsibilities

• Performs field and laboratory testing in support of geotechnical projects.
• Logs soil samples and documents field observations.
• Performs boring layouts, soil classification, and DCP testing.
• Supports data reduction and project documentation.
• Communicates daily with contractors, PMs, and team members about site conditions.
• Maintains field equipment and ensures proper test result documentation.
• Contributes to reports and calculations as needed.
• Performs other field, laboratory, or project support tasks.

Skills

Communication skills

Math skills

Maps and plans reading

Detail-oriented

Independence / teamwork

Valid driver's license

Field safety awareness

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Responsibilities

The Geotechnical Field Technician performs field and laboratory testing in support of geotechnical and construction materials projects under the direction of project managers and senior staff. This role is primarily field-based and involves subsurface exploration, construction observation, and material testing activities. The Geotechnical Field Technician develops technical skills through hands-on experience and certification programs while maintaining a positive customer service attitude and demonstrating an understanding of ECS Core Values.

• Performs layout of borings and test pits using conventional surveying techniques and GPS
• Observes and classifies soils, test pits, and subsurface conditions
• Performs hand auger borings, dynamic cone penetrometer (DCP) testing, and other field investigations
• Logs soil samples and documents field observations
• Assists with data reduction and preparation of field and project documentation
• Performs field testing, sampling, and inspection of construction materials, including soil, aggregates, concrete, asphalt, masonry, and structural steel
• Assists with laboratory testing and sample classification
• Communicates daily with contractors, project managers, and team members regarding site conditions and testing activities
• Supports preparation of reports, calculations, and documentation as needed
• Maintains field equipment and ensures proper documentation of test results
• Performs other field, laboratory, or project support tasks as assigned

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• 0 years of related experience
• High school diploma or GED required
• One certification must be completed within the 90-day introductory period, and all basic certifications must be completed within 270 days of employment, including: Radiation Safety, Soils I, and Concrete I
• Additional certifications applicable to the work performed may be required
• If driving for or on behalf of any ECS subsidiary, a valid driver's license is required
• Strong communication skills (verbal and written)
• Basic math skills
• Ability to read maps, follow directions, and interpret construction plans
• Dependable, detail-oriented, and responsible work ethic
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle and comply with safety requirements
• Willingness to work in field conditions, including varying weather and site environments

Military Qualifications

• The following US Military ranks will qualify for this position IF they also meet the education requirements from the above section titled "Required Qualifications":
• E-4

The expected pay range for this role and location is $22-$25/hour. The final agreed-upon compensation will be determined based on specific location and other individual qualifications.

About Us

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 facilities consulting services. We are employee-owned with more than 3,000 employees in 100+ 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 #50 in Zweig Group’s Hot Firm List (May 2025). For additional information about ECS, visit: www.ecslimited.com.

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