Geotechnical & Materials Testing Intern: Field & Lab

UES, Inc.; Corpus Christi (TX); On-site; USD 28,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

UES, Inc. invites you to a 10-week geotechnical internship combining field testing, laboratory analysis, and investigations. You’ll experience how soils and concrete are tested to assure quality in construction projects and how findings influence design decisions.

You’ll complete a capstone project and gain practical skills for a career in geotechnical consulting, construction materials testing, or engineering, working with experienced teams and real-world deliverables.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree program in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or a related field.
• Completion of at least two years of coursework preferred.
• Strong academic foundation in engineering principles, with interest in applied fieldwork and testing.
• Effective communication and technical writing skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook); familiarity with AutoCAD, GIS, or engineering software is a plus.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Must hold a valid driver’s license and have reliable transportation.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Attention to detail with a commitment to quality and accuracy.
• Willingness to work outdoors in varying conditions.
• Ability to adapt to a fast-paced, project-driven environment.
• Professionalism and eagerness to learn.

Responsibilities

• Geotechnical Investigations: Learn how boring locations are identified, assist with underground utility coordination, and observe geotechnical drilling in action.
• Soils Laboratory Testing: Conduct Atterberg limits, sieve analyses, proctor compaction, and swell tests to evaluate soil performance.
• Concrete Laboratory Testing: Prepare and test specimens, measure cylinder dimensions, and determine material strength.
• Field Testing - Soils: Perform density tests, observe proof rolling, and monitor lime treatments while learning how compliance ensures safe and durable structures.
• Field Testing - Concrete: Conduct plastic concrete testing, cast cylinders, and verify rebar placement, connecting your findings to structural performance.
• Capstone Project: At the end of the internship, you’ll complete a specialized capstone project that pulls together your field and lab experiences into a formal presentation for department leadership. This deliverable will highlight your technical and analytical skills—and provide a résumé-ready example of your ability to apply engineering principles in practice.

Skills

Effective communication

Technical writing

Teamwork

Problem solving

Attention to detail

Willingness to learn

MS Office proficiency

AutoCAD familiarity

GIS familiarity

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree program in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or related field

Two years of coursework preferred

Tools

AutoCAD

GIS

Job description

UES, Inc. invites you to a 10-week geotechnical internship combining field testing, laboratory analysis, and investigations. You’ll experience how soils and concrete are tested to assure quality in construction projects and how findings influence design decisions.

You’ll complete a capstone project and gain practical skills for a career in geotechnical consulting, construction materials testing, or engineering, working with experienced teams and real-world deliverables.