Geotechnical Internship (Level 1)

ECS Southeast, LLP; North Charleston (SC); On-site; USD 22,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

ECS Southeast, LLP is seeking a geotechnical field technician in North Charleston, SC. You will assist with fieldwork, logging, and coordination of subsurface explorations, while supporting data collection and reporting.

This entry-level role emphasizes safety, accuracy, and teamwork in outdoor site conditions. The position offers hands-on experience in geotechnical testing, boring operations, and site evaluations, with mentorship and opportunities to advance in field services within the ECS

Qualifications

• Pursuing an accredited civil engineering degree or related field.
• Must complete Radiation Safety, Soils I, Concrete I within 90/270 days as applicable.
• Valid driver's license if driving for ECS subsidiary.
• Strong communication, dependable, detail-oriented, and organized.

Responsibilities

• Assist with geotechnical fieldwork and subsurface exploration.
• Support scheduling and coordination of drilling operations.
• Assist with obtaining utility clearances and evaluating site access.
• Prepare drilling instructions and field plans.
• Perform boring and test pit layout using surveying and GPS equipment.
• Document field observations and support data collection.

Skills

Field observations

Communication skills

Teamwork

Detail-oriented

Organized

Education

Pursuing Civil Engineering or related field

Tools

GPS equipment

Soils lab 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.