Geotechnical Field Technician

ECS Group of Companies; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

The ECS Group of Companies in Charlotte, NC is looking for a field technician to assist with geotechnical testing and construction material analysis. Responsibilities include soil classification, performing tests, and working on active construction sites.

Ideal candidates should have a high school diploma or GED, with preferred experience in Civil Engineering. This role involves physical demands such as lifting heavy materials and may require overtime and travel.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED; BS in Civil Engineering from an ABET-accredited university preferred.
• 0–2 years of experience.
• Ability to carry 40–70 lbs and occasionally lift 85 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Layout borings and test pits using surveying and GPS.
• Classify samples and perform geotechnical field work.
• Conduct routine field and laboratory tests.
• Work on active construction sites for soil and materials testing.

Skills

Field testing

Soil classification

Data reduction

Construction safety

Education

High school diploma or GED

BS in Civil Engineering (preferred)

Job description

Responsibilities

• Layout of borings and test pits using conventional surveying and GPS.
• Observe and classify test pits and soils, perform hand auger borings, DCP testing, soil logging, and related geotechnical field work.
• Classify samples from drilling operations and reduce GPS and other geotechnical data for utilization and production.
• Perform routine field and laboratory tests under the direction of staff professionals/project managers.
• Assist in more complex tasks, calculations, data reduction of test results, and drafting as required.
• Work primarily on active construction sites, observing, testing, sampling, and inspecting soil, aggregates, concrete, grout, masonry, asphalt, and structural steel placement.
• Communicate daily with site contractors, other technicians, and project managers.
• Possibly perform department administrative duties and work in the construction materials testing department.
• Undergo training in ECS methodology to document findings according to accepted engineering practice and gain a sound understanding of construction practices.
• Engage in continuous skill development through internal and external training programs and certifications (ACI, ASNT, AWS, ICC, NICET, NRCA, IIBEC, State DOTs, WACEL, etc.).

Physical Requirements

The employee will be regularly exposed to outdoor weather conditions such as wet or humid environments, extreme cold or heat, dusty and noisy work environments. Noise levels will typically be moderate to moderately loud. The employee may also be exposed to high, precarious places. Some weekend and overtime work and overnight travel may be required.

Physically, the role involves long-term standing, repetitive motions, handling, reaching, climbing, balancing, crouching, stooping, crawling, kneeling, and sitting. The employee must have the ability to see and smell, with close, distance, and peripheral vision, depth vision, and ability to focus. Driving hundreds of miles per day may be required.

Lifting requirements: regularly lift or move up to 40 pounds (soil and concrete tests), frequently lift or move 60–80 pounds (soil, sand samples, nuclear density equipment), occasionally move more than 100 pounds (loaded wheelbarrow of concrete samples). Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED; BS in Civil Engineering from an ABET‑accredited university preferred.
• 0–2 years of experience.
• Capability to carry 40–70 lbs multiple times a day or occasionally lift 85 lbs to waist height.

Military Qualifications

• E‑4 military rank will qualify for this position if education requirements are met.

Equal Opportunity

ECS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.