Geotechnical Internship (Level 2)

ECS Group of Companies; Virginia Beach (VA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

ECS Group of Companies (ECS) seeks a motivated Geotechnical Field Student/Assistant to support field exploration and testing activities in Virginia Beach. You will perform field duties, assist with drilling schedules, collect samples, document observations, and work under supervision while pursuing a Civil Engineering related degree; willingness to work outdoors is essential.

Qualifications include internship experience, pursuing relevant degree, and completion of safety certifications within

Qualifications

• 90 days of related experience
• At least one internship with ECS or another firm
• Enrolled in Civil Engineering or related field
• Certifications to be completed within specified timeframes (Radiation Safety, Soils I, Concrete I)
• Additional certifications may be required for Level 2
• Valid driver's license if driving for ECS subsidiary
• Strong communication, verbal and written
• Dependable, detail-oriented, organized
• Ability to work independently and in a team
• Ability to follow directions with limited supervision
• Basic geotechnical fieldwork & testing knowledge
• Basic problem-solving and observational skills
• Willingness to work outdoors in varying conditions

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

Detail oriented

Independent worker

Team player

Follow directions

Geotechnical fieldwork

Observation skills

Education

Pursuing Civil Engineering degree (Associate/Bachelor/Master)

Job description

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

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

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.