Geotechnical Technician — Soils Testing & ObservationOverview
Join our team as a Geotechnical Technician, supporting construction projects through field observation and testing of soils. This role works on active construction sites, monitoring earthwork operations and performing in-situ and field testing to verify that soil placement and compaction meet project specifications. Your accuracy, attention to detail, and adherence to standardized test procedures directly support the safety and durability of the infrastructure we help build.
Duties
- Perform field observation of soil placement, fill operations, and grading activities to verify conformance with project specifications and the geotechnical engineer's recommendations.
- Conduct in-situ soil testing, including field density/compaction testing (using Egauge electrical density testing or other applicable methods per ASTM/AASHTO standards), moisture content testing, and proctor comparison testing.
- Collect soil samples for laboratory testing in accordance with established sampling protocols.
- Document field observations, test results, and site conditions in daily field reports.
- Report test results and field observations to the assigned project engineer or supervising geotechnical engineer; technicians do not have independent authority to accept or reject soil placement — acceptance/rejection determinations are made by the geotechnical engineer of record based on the technician's reported data.
- Maintain calibration records and daily function checks for field testing equipment.
- Communicate test results and field observations clearly and professionally to project engineers, contractors, and clients.
- Maintain accurate documentation using software tools for field reports and testing records.
- Assist with training or mentoring newer technicians in field testing procedures and site safety protocols, commensurate with experience level and certification.
- Follow all site-specific safety requirements, including excavation and trenching safety protocols; technicians do not enter unshored or unprotected excavations.
Qualifications
- 2+ years of experience in soils field testing and construction observation preferred.
- NICET certification in Geotechnical Engineering Technology (or actively working toward certification) preferred.
- Working knowledge of ASTM and AASHTO standards applicable to soil field density, moisture content, and compaction testing.
- Experience with field density testing methods; familiarity with electrical density gauge testing (e.g., Egauge) preferred. Company-provided equipment training will be provided.
- Familiarity with earthwork and grading operations on active construction sites.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications for field documentation and reporting.
- Basic math and measurement skills sufficient for field calculations and data recording.
- Valid driver's license and acceptable motor vehicle record; role requires regular travel between job sites, including sites with unpaved or limited access.
- OSHA 10-Hour (or higher) construction safety training preferred; willingness to complete company safety training, including excavation/trenching awareness, required.
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and on uneven or unstable terrain; role requires walking, standing, and carrying field testing equipment for extended periods at active construction sites.
- Strong communication skills for reporting technical findings clearly to engineers, contractors, and clients.
- Ability to follow detailed, standardized field procedures accurately and consistently.
Physical Requirements
Regular outdoor work on active construction sites in all weather conditions; ability to walk and stand on uneven or unstable ground for extended periods; ability to lift and carry field testing equipment (typically up to 40 lbs); reasonable accommodations available in accordance with the ADA.
Pay: $30.00 - $40.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Cell phone reimbursement
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
