Entry-Level Construction Materials Professional

S&ME, Inc.

6d•Onsite

About The Position

S&ME is looking for a motivated and passionate Entry-Level Construction Materials Professional to join our Construction Services team in Wilmington, North Carolina. Are you ready to grow your career with a firm that is committed to its employees and delivers high-quality service to its clients? Join us at S&ME! As an Entry-Level Construction Materials Professional, you will work directly on active construction sites, performing hands‑on testing and inspections of materials used in the field. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys hands-on work, being outdoors, and playing a critical role in keeping construction projects safe, compliant, and on track. This role follows a project‑driven, non‑traditional schedule, with start times and hours that vary based on construction activity and weather rather than a fixed 9-5 routine. You'll be trained to perform standardized material tests and inspections, learn how construction projects operate from the ground up, and build a strong foundation in construction materials testing In this role, you may experience changing weekly schedules driven by construction activity and weather conditions. Expect early mornings, late evenings, occasional weekends, and paid overtime (time and a half). Want to Grow? This role offers growth through expanded testing capabilities, certifications, and increasing responsibility on construction projects. Many professionals in this position choose to build long-term careers in construction materials testing, inspection, and project support. We Are S&ME: At S&ME, we're committed to your growth, professionally and personally. With over 50 years of experience delivering innovative solutions in geotechnical, civil, environmental, and construction materials engineering, we've built a strong foundation for long-term careers. Our team of 1,000+ employee-owners across 10+ states works together to create meaningful impact for our clients and communities. When you join S&ME, you become part of a collaborative, honest, and people-focused culture that invests in your success. We offer exciting project opportunities, ongoing training, and a comprehensive benefits package to support you and your family. This is more than a job; it's a place to grow, thrive, and build a future.

Requirements

A Bachelor's degree in civil engineering, construction management, engineering technology, geology, or a related technical field
Interest in hands-on, field-based work outdoors and learning how construction projects operate from the ground up
0-2 years of experience in construction materials testing, inspection, or field‑based construction work
Willingness to earn required industry certifications within the first 6 months (company-supported training provided)
Basic math and communication skills (speaking, reading, and writing) using the English language
The understanding of a fluctuating non-traditional weekly schedule and occasional travel
You are willing and able to perform the physical demands of this position with the use of Company-provided Personal Protective Equipment, such as: Working outdoors in varying weather conditions, moving and standing for extended periods of time (8+ hours a day) Walking over rough, uneven terrain and standing for potentially long periods Routinely lifting and carrying 40-50lbs (field/laboratory samples and equipment) Maneuver field equipment safely, such as a loaded wheelbarrow, on uneven ground around active construction sites Working outside of normal business hours when necessary

Responsibilities

Perform hands-on material testing and inspections: Conduct standardized field and laboratory tests on construction materials such as soil, concrete, asphalt, and masonry to confirm they meet project and industry requirements.
Support active construction projects on-site: Work alongside contractors, inspectors, and project teams to observe construction activities, verify material placement, and ensure quality control processes are followed.
Document results accurately and consistently: Record test results, observations, and site details using Metafield® or similar reporting systems to provide clear, organized project records.
Learn project requirements and inspection procedures: Review basic project documents and testing protocols before site visits to understand what needs to be inspected and how each test is performed.
Communicate observations to your team: Share field findings with supervisors and project managers, asking questions and escalating concerns as needed to help keep projects moving safely and efficiently.