Geotechnical Internship (Level 1)

ECS Group of Companies; Fredericksburg (VA); On-site; USD 22,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

ECS Group of Companies in Fredericksburg, VA is seeking a motivated student to assist in geotechnical fieldwork and subsurface exploration, supporting drilling operations and site access. The role involves preparing drilling instructions, performing boring layouts with GPS, observing soil samples, and documenting field observations; lab work may be required.

This entry-level position offers hands-on experience in geotechnical engineering with opportunities to complete certifications and grow

Qualifications

• Pursuing an Associate, Bachelor, or Master degree in Civil Engineering or a related field.
• Expect to complete required certifications within 90/270 days, including Radiation Safety, Soils I, and Concrete I.
• Valid driver's license required for ECS driving assignments.
• Strong communication, dependability, and organizational skills.
• Willingness to work outdoors in field conditions.

Responsibilities

• Assist with geotechnical fieldwork and subsurface exploration activities.
• Supports scheduling and coordination of drilling operations.
• Assists with obtaining utility clearances and evaluating site access.
• Supports preparation of drilling instructions and field plans.
• Performs boring and test pit layout using conventional surveying and GPS equipment.
• Assists in observation and classification of soil samples and test pits.
• Supports preparation of boring logs and location diagrams.
• Performs hand auger borings to obtain soil samples and subsurface information.
• Assists with site seismic testing and other field investigations.
• Observes foundation construction and ground improvement activities.
• Assists with laboratory testing activities as needed.
• Documents field observations and supports data collection efforts.
• Performs other field or project support tasks as assigned

Skills

Strong communication

Dependable

Detail-oriented

Organized

Independent work

Team player

Ability to follow directions

Problem-solving

Observational skills

Willingness to work outdoors

Education

Civil Engineering degree pursuit

Related degree pursuit

Tools

GPS equipment

Surveying equipment

Job description

• Assists with geotechnical fieldwork and subsurface exploration activities
• Supports scheduling and coordination of drilling operations
• Assists with obtaining utility clearances and evaluating site access
• Supports preparation of drilling instructions and field plans
• Performs boring and test pit layout using conventional surveying and GPS equipment
• Assists in observation and classification of soil samples and test pits
• Supports preparation of boring logs and location diagrams
• Performs hand auger borings to obtain soil samples and subsurface information
• Assists with site seismic testing and other field investigations
• Observes foundation construction and ground improvement activities
• Assists with laboratory testing activities as needed
• Documents field observations and supports data collection efforts
• Performs other field or project support tasks as assigned

Responsibilities

• Assists with geotechnical fieldwork and subsurface exploration activities
• Supports scheduling and coordination of drilling operations
• Assists with obtaining utility clearances and evaluating site access
• Supports preparation of drilling instructions and field plans
• Performs boring and test pit layout using conventional surveying and GPS equipment
• Assists in observation and classification of soil samples and test pits
• Supports preparation of boring logs and location diagrams
• Performs hand auger borings to obtain soil samples and subsurface information
• Assists with site seismic testing and other field investigations
• Observes foundation construction and ground improvement activities
• Assists with laboratory testing activities as needed
• Documents field observations and supports data collection efforts
• Performs other field or project support tasks as assigned

Required Qualifications

• 0 years of related experience
• Must be pursuing an Associate, Bachelor, or Master degree in Civil Engineering, or other degree related to our services
• 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
• If driving for or on behalf of any ECS subsidiary, a valid driver's license is required
• Strong communication skills (verbal and written)
• Dependable, detail-oriented, and organized work ethic
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Ability to follow directions and work under close supervision
• Basic problem-solving and observational skills
• Willingness to work in outdoor environments and field conditions

Military Qualifications

• The following US Military ranks would qualify for this position:
• E-4
• The expected pay range for this role and location is $16-$18/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 3,00 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 #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.