Geotechnical Internship (Level 1)

ECS Southwest, LLP; Tempe (AZ); On-site; USD 25,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

ECS Southwest, LLP is seeking an entry-level Geotechnical Field Technician to support field exploration, boring and sampling, and data collection for geotechnical projects in Arizona. You will assist with scheduling, site access, and coordinating drilling operations under close supervision.

You will gain hands-on experience performing auger borings, observing soil samples, preparing boring logs, and assisting with laboratory testing as needed, while developing professional skills in a team-based

Qualifications

• 0 years of related experience.
• Pursuing an Associate, Bachelor, or Master degree in Civil Engineering or related field.
• One certification must be completed within the 90-day introductory period, and all basic certifications within 270 days (Radiation Safety, Soils I, Concrete I).
• Valid driver's license if driving for ECS subsidiary.
• Strong communication skills (verbal and written).
• Dependable, detail-oriented, and organized work ethic.
• Ability to work 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.

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

Skills

Strong communication

Dependable

Detail-oriented

Organized

Team player

Independent work

Ability to follow directions

Problem-solving

Observational skills

Outdoor work readiness

Education

Pursuing Civil Engineering degree

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.