Materials Science Lab Internship

ECS Mid-Atlantic, LLC; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 31,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

ECS Mid-Atlantic, LLC is seeking a motivated student to perform laboratory tasks related to construction materials under supervision. You will receive samples, label, bag, prepare paperwork, and assist with test preparation and data recording.

You will help with preparing polished sections, conducting chemistry tests, taking photographs of samples, and maintaining a clean, organized lab while supporting project tracking in ECS software systems.

Qualifications

• Actively pursuing a degree in Earth Sciences, Materials Science, Chemistry, Biological Sciences, Civil/Structural Engineering or related field.
• Interest in materials science as applied to building materials.
• Demonstrates reliability, attention to detail and organization.
• Good communication skills (speaking, reading and writing).
• Some knowledge of laboratory equipment and test methods.
• Ability to interpret data and properly record information.
• Proficient with Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Must be able to stand for long periods and lift up to 40 pounds multiple times daily.
• Valid driver's license if driving for ECS subsidiary.

Responsibilities

• Perform tasks associated with laboratory tests on construction materials under direction.
• Receive samples, label, bag and prepare paperwork for testing operations.
• Support project management tracking in ECS software systems.
• Perform photographs of samples.
• Cut and/or crush concrete samples for test preparation.
• Prepare polished sections of concrete for microscopic analysis.
• Perform chemistry tests of concrete.
• Maintain laboratory cleanliness and organization.
• Notify supervisor of broken or missing equipment.
• Other duties as assigned

Skills

Materials science interest

Data interpretation

Computer skills (Word, Excel)

Communication skills

Physical stamina

Dependable & organized

Driver's license

Education

Earth Sciences / Materials Science degree candidate

Tools

Laboratory equipment familiarity

Job description

Responsibilities

• Perform specific tasks associated with laboratory tests on construction materials under the direction of others.
• Receive samples and label, bag and prepare paperwork for testing operations
• Support project management tracking in ECS software systems
• Perform photographs of samples
• Cut and/or crush concrete samples for test preparation
• Prepare polished sections of concrete for microscopic analysis
• Perform chemistry tests of concrete
• Maintain the laboratory cleanliness and organization
• Notify supervisor of broken or missing equipment
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Actively pursuing a degree in Earth Sciences, Materials Science, Chemistry, Biological Sciences, Civil/Structural Engineering or other degree relevant to the study of building materials.
• Interest in materials science as applied to building materials
• Dependable, detail-oriented, and organized
• Demonstrates good communication skills (speaking, reading, and writing)
• Limited knowledge of laboratory equipment and test methods
• Limited knowledge of sample preparation and test methods
• Ability to interpret data and properly record collected information
• Proficient with computers, Microsoft Word, and Excel
• Must be able to stand for long periods and lift a minimum of 40 pounds a number of times each day
• If driving for, or on behalf of, any ECS subsidiary, a valid driver's license is required

About Us

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 3,200 employees in 125 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.