Geotechnical Internship (Level 2)

ECS Southeast, LLP; Franklin (TN); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

ECS Group of Companies in Franklin, TN is seeking a motivated student to assist geotechnical field teams and support subsurface exploration. You will help with field plans, boring, logging, and data collection while learning hands-on field techniques.

The role emphasizes safety, teamwork, and growing certifications within 9–12 months, including driving responsibilities and outdoor work in varying weather and site conditions.

Qualifications

• Pursuing an Associate, Bachelor, or Master in Civil Engineering, or a related field.
• Must have had an internship with ECS or another firm.
• Must complete 1 certification within 90 days and basic certifications within 270 days.
• Valid driver’s license required if driving for ECS.
• Good communication, dependability, and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Performs geotechnical fieldwork and supports subsurface exploration activities.
• Assists with scheduling drilling operations and coordinating field efforts.
• Obtains utility clearances for subsurface investigation activities.
• Supports preparation of drilling instructions and field plans.
• Performs boring and test pit layout using surveying and GPS equipment.
• Observes and classifies soils and test pits.
• Prepares boring logs and location diagrams.
• Performs hand auger borings to obtain soil samples and subsurface data.
• Assists with or performs specialized testing (e.g., Pile Driving Analyzer testing).
• Supports site seismic testing and other geotechnical investigations.
• Observes foundation construction and ground improvement installations.
• Documents field observations and supports data collection and reporting.
• Performs other field or project support tasks as assigned.

Skills

Strong communication

Team-oriented

Detail-oriented

Independent worker

Field surveying basics

Education

Pursuing Civil Engineering degree

Tools

GPS equipment

Surveying equipment

Job description

What You'll Do

Responsibilities

• Performs geotechnical fieldwork and supports subsurface exploration activities
• Assists with scheduling drilling operations and coordinating field efforts
• Obtains utility clearances for subsurface investigation activities
• Supports preparation of drilling instructions and field plans
• Performs boring and test pit layout using surveying and GPS equipment
• Observes and classifies soils and test pits
• Prepares boring logs and location diagrams
• Performs hand auger borings to obtain soil samples and subsurface data
• Assists with or performs specialized testing (e.g., Pile Driving Analyzer testing)
• Supports site seismic testing and other geotechnical investigations
• Observes foundation construction and ground improvement installations
• Documents field observations and supports data collection and reporting
• Performs other field or project support tasks as assigned

What We're Looking For

Required Qualifications

• 90 days of related experience
• At least one internship with ECS or another firm
• 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
  • Additional certifications applicable to the work performed may be required for Level 2
• 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 independently and as part of a team
• Ability to follow directions with limited supervision
• Basic understanding of geotechnical fieldwork and testing procedures
• Basic problem-solving and observational skills
• Willingness to work in outdoor environments and varying site 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 facilities consulting services. We are employee-owned with more than 3,000 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 #50 in Zweig Group's Hot Firm List (May 2025). For additional information about ECS, visit: www.ecslimited.com.

ECS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.