Construction Materials Testing and Geotechnical Engineer

Universal Engineering Sciences•Auburn, AL

10h•Hybrid

About The Position

UES is hiring engineering professionals across construction materials testing (CMT) and geotechnical engineering, including Field Engineers, Staff Engineers/EITs, Project Engineers, Senior Engineers, and Principal Engineers. The role involves investigating sites, testing materials, evaluating ground conditions, and developing engineering solutions that support safe construction. Responsibilities and scope depend on experience, qualifications, certifications, and licensure. Early-career engineers work under appropriate supervision; more experienced engineers may manage projects, provide technical oversight, develop client relationships, mentor staff, and support business growth. The position involves work in office, laboratory, and field environments, with moderate travel of approximately up to 40% to job sites, field locations, and regional offices. Work may take place outdoors in varying terrain and weather, and may involve laboratory equipment, chemicals, biological samples, and field hazards. The role requires adherence to safety procedures, applicable standards, project requirements, and PPE protocols. Occasional extended hours or overnight assignments may be needed to accommodate project schedules.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
At least 2 years of experience in construction materials testing, geotechnical engineering, or quality control.
Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification required; Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred or ability to obtain.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with data analysis and reporting tools.
Strong communication, analytical, and technical writing skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in office, laboratory, and field environments.
Ability to determine how materials will be used in a wide variety of conditions.
Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record and ability to travel to job sites as needed.
Ability to meet applicable background screening requirements and perform essential duties, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Ability to lift and carry 35–75 pounds of equipment or samples over distances up to 75 feet.
Ability to stand, walk, drive, and operate laboratory and field equipment for extended periods.
Ability to bend, twist, reach, stoop, kneel, climb, and balance as needed during laboratory and fieldwork.
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing in varied environments, often while wearing PPE.
Ability to use visual and olfactory sensory capabilities for observation and safety purposes.
Project Engineer / PE: Active PE license and at least five years of progressive engineering experience, including independent technical work and project coordination.
Senior Engineer / PE: Active PE license and substantial relevant experience managing complex projects, reviewing technical work, and mentoring staff.
Principal Engineer / PE: Active PE license and extensive relevant experience providing technical oversight, responsible charge, client development, and team leadership.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in civil, geotechnical, construction, or a related engineering discipline.
Professional Engineer (PE) license, or ability to obtain one.
Strong problem-solving and documentation skills.
Proficiency with software appropriate to the role.
Commitment to safety, quality, and teamwork.
Engineering Intern: Foundational engineering knowledge and willingness to learn under supervision; student interns must be enrolled in an applicable degree program.
Staff Engineer / EIT: Ability to assist with calculations, data analysis, and technical reports; EIT certification is preferred or in progress unless required for a designated EIT position.
Additional testing certifications, depending on the assignment.

Responsibilities

Conduct site investigations, construction observations, and materials testing.
Collect and analyze soil samples, field measurements, and laboratory data.
Assist with subsurface explorations, instrumentation monitoring, engineering calculations, and geotechnical recommendations.
Review plans and specifications; prepare field records and technical reports.
Maintain calibrated testing equipment and promptly communicate findings and concerns.
Perform engineering analyses and develop recommendations, specifications, and technical reports.
Manage investigations, testing, and project delivery, including scopes, proposals, budgets, schedules, and staffing.
Review technical work, address project risks, and mentor junior staff.
Coordinate with clients, contractors, and regulatory agencies.
Direct complex CMT and geotechnical projects, resolve technical issues, and approve deliverables.
Exercise responsible charge and sign and seal documents within authorized licensure and expertise.
Guide technical standards, staff development, and quality assurance.
Develop client relationships and support business growth, resource planning, and profitability.
Follow safety procedures, applicable standards, and project requirements.
Maintain accurate documentation and collaborate across project teams.
Travel and accommodate project schedules, including occasional extended hours or overnight assignments.
Perform other duties appropriate to the role.