Geotechnical Internship (Level 1)

Engineering Consulting Service; Knoxville (TN); On-site; USD 35,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Engineering Consulting Service is seeking a motivated student to assist geotechnical field teams in Knoxville, TN. You will help with site exploration, boring layouts, and documentation while learning field procedures and safety practices.

The role emphasizes teamwork, outdoor work, and hands-on training in surveying and site access coordination as part of a growing geotechnical consulting operation.

Qualifications

• Pursuing an Associate, Bachelor, or Master in Civil Engineering or related field.
• Basic field safety and documentation skills are required.
• Must progress through certifications within specified introductory periods.

Responsibilities

• Assist with geotechnical fieldwork and subsurface exploration activities.
• Support scheduling and coordination of drilling operations.
• Prepare boring logs and location diagrams under supervision.
• Observe soil samples and test pits and document findings.
• Assist with site seismic testing and field investigations.
• Support laboratory testing activities as needed.

Skills

Communication skills

Dependable

Detail-oriented

Organized

Teamwork

Follow directions

Problem solving

Observation skills

Outdoor work willingness

Education

Civil Engineering related degree (Associate/Bachelor/Master)

Tools

GPS equipment

Surveying equipment

Job description

What You'll Do

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

What We're Looking For

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

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 3,00 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.