Geotechnical Research Analyst

AGR LLC; McLean (VA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

AGR LLC is seeking a Geotechnical Research Technician to join the FHWA TFHRC geotechnical laboratory in McLean, VA. You will support experiments on soils, foundations, erosion, pavements, and geotechnical materials, set up instrumentation, collect data, and help maintain a state-of-the-art facility.

The role emphasizes hands-on testing, data organization, and collaboration with engineers, with a start date within two weeks of the background check.

Qualifications

• Must pass federal background check with no criminal record and pass drug test.
• Completion of at least two years of technical training in engineering technician skills or related fields.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to work with tools and lab equipment.
• Hands-on experience in a geotechnical laboratory.
• Knowledge of ASTM/AASHTO soil testing methods.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs and stand up to 8 hours daily.
• Strong communication skills and ability to follow detailed technical instructions.
• Comfortable working with formulas in spreadsheets.

Responsibilities

• Laboratory testing and experiment support across geotechnical tests.
• Set up, operate, and break down tests and prepare soil specimens.
• Install sensors and data acquisition systems for readings.
• Perform tests per ASTM/AASHTO procedures and document results.
• Assist with field testing and data collection at off-site locations.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Lab experience

Data analysis

Spreadsheet skills

Communication skills

Physical stamina

Education

Two years technical training

Bachelors in civil engineering or geology

Tools

Data acquisition hardware

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Geotechnical Research Analyst

Full Time DOT LAB, McLean, VA, US

2 days ago Requisition ID: 1042

Geotechnical Research Technician (On‑Site)

Location: Turner–Fairbank Highway Research Center, 6300 Georgetown Pike, McLean, VA

Employer: Advanced Global Resources (AGR), LLC.

Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday 8 hours shifts, 7:30 am – 4:00 pm

Clearance: Must meet TFHRC facility access requirements

Hiring immediate with start date within 2 weeks of passing federal background check

About the Role

Join a nationally recognized federal research center supporting geotechnical innovation that directly impacts U.S. transportation infrastructure. As a Geotechnical Research Technician, you will work hands‑on in the FHWA Geotechnical Laboratory, supporting research on soils, foundations, erosion, pavements, and geotechnical materials. You’ll assist engineers, set up and run experiments, install instrumentation, collect data, and help maintain a state‑of‑the‑art research facility.

This role is ideal for mechanically inclined, detail‑oriented individuals who enjoys research testing, technically inclines, data organizer experienced with spreadsheets, and contributing to meaningful national research.

Key Responsibilities

Laboratory Testing & Experiment Support

• Set up, operate, and break down geotechnical experiments (triaxial, direct shear, resilient modulus, erosion testing, permeability, etc.)
• Prepare, mix, and fabricate soil specimens using sands, clays, gravels, and engineered materials.
• Install sensors, reference assemblies, and data acquisition systems for manual and automated readings.
• Conduct standardized geotechnical tests following ASTM and AASHTO procedures.
• Document procedures with clear notes, photos, and organized data.

Instrumentation & Field Support

• Assist with field testing, instrumentation installation, and data collection at off‑site locations.
• Operate forklifts, cranes, and rigging equipment (training provided).
• Handle Shelby tube and other sensitive samples to minimize disturbance.

Operations & Maintenance (Engineering Lab)

• Maintain laboratory cleanliness, organization, and equipment readiness.
• Support calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of lab equipment.
• Coordinate logistics, materials, and supplies for ongoing research activities.

Research Support & Data Management

• Collect, organize, and analyze test data in approved formats.
• Assist engineers with experimental plans, schematics, and documentation.
• Contribute to high‑quality research outputs, including internal reports and technical notes.

Required Qualifications

• Ability to pass a federal background check (no criminal record, pass drug test, either US citizen or non-US citizen who has an authorization to work in the US and resided in the US for the last 3 years, valid drivers license.)
• Completion of at least two years of technical training in engineering technician skills, electronics, computer science, or related fields (GT‑RT‑1 requirement).
• Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to work with tools and laboratory equipment.
• Demonstrated hands‑on experience in a geotechnical laboratory.
• Knowledge of standard ASTM/AASHTO soil testing methods.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs and be on your feet for up to 8 hours per day.
• Strong communication skills and ability to follow detailed technical instructions.
• Comfortable working with formulas in spreadsheets

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree within the area of civil engineering or geology.
• Experience with large‑scale geotechnical testing (triaxial, direct shear, erosion function apparatus, interface shear).
• Familiarity with instrumentation systems and data acquisition hardware.
• Data analysis skills and ability to prepare clear summaries of test results.
• Forklift or overhead crane experience (training can be provided).