Entry-Level Construction Materials Engineering Technician

S&ME, Inc. • Knoxville, TN

5d • Onsite

About The Position

S&ME is looking for a hard-working Entry-Level Construction Materials Engineering Technician ready for hands-on learning to join our Construction Services team in Knoxville, Tennessee. At S&ME, we have a history of delivering innovative geotechnical, civil, environmental, and construction material testing for over 50 years. Over the decades, we have grown into a trusted partner for clients across various industries, including transportation, energy, water, waste management, education, government, commercial, industrial, and more. Our commitment to technical excellence and integrity has established us as a leader in our field.

As an entry-level Construction Materials Engineering Technician, you enjoy starting your day outdoors and take pride in hands-on work that impacts the projects you work on. Each day brings new challenges as you help ensure construction quality and safety while growing your technical skills. At S&ME, our Construction Materials Engineering Technicians are vital to ensuring construction projects meet quality and safety standards. From day one, you'll be in the field gaining hands-on experience and building a strong foundation for your career. Start with the Basics: Begin with concrete sampling and testing, then expand into soils, asphalt, and masonry as you grow. Earn While You Learn: Receive paid, on-the-job training and support for certifications through ACI and ICC. Outdoor Work Environment: Enjoy working outside year-round in changing conditions, with new sites and crews keeping things fresh. Testing & Documentation: Perform field and lab tests, maintain equipment, and ensure accurate, complete reporting. Inspections & Standards: Conduct inspections per IBC codes, document findings, and manage data using Metafield®. Experience shifting weekly work hours based on project needs and weather conditions, including early mornings, late evenings, weekends, possible holidays, and overtime (paid at time and a half).

Requirements

• High School diploma/GED
• Curiosity and the willingness to learn
• Strong work ethic
• Team mindset
• Strong attention to detail
• Effective communication skills in English, including speaking, reading, and writing
• Basic math skills with an understanding of weight, volume, pressure, and units of measure
• Understanding a fluctuating weekly schedule and occasional travel
• Willing and able to perform the physical demands of the position with the use of company-provided Personal Protective Equipment
• Willing to work the majority of the time outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Willing to walk over rough, uneven terrain and stand for potentially up to 12 hours a day
• Willing to routinely lift and carry 40-50lbs (field/laboratory samples and equipment)
• Willing to maneuver field equipment safely, such as a loaded wheelbarrow, on uneven ground around active construction sites

Nice To Haves

• Obtaining certifications is part of your growth

Responsibilities

• Perform field and lab tests
• Maintain equipment
• Ensure accurate, complete reporting
• Conduct inspections per IBC codes
• Document findings
• Manage data using Metafield®
• Start with concrete sampling and testing, then expand into soils, asphalt, and masonry

Benefits

• Mentorship
• Training
• Leadership opportunities
• Paid, on-the-job training
• Support for certifications through ACI and ICC
• Medical, Dental & Vision Plans with HSA and FSA options
• 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with a 5% company contribution
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Time Off (PTO) - with rollover options
• Paid Maternity/Parental Leave
• Employee Recognition Program
• Credential Incentive Program
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Company Vehicle with Fuel Card for Project-Based Work
• $2,000 Referral Bonuses

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED