Field Geotechnical Engineer or Geologist - Nuclear

S&ME, Inc.•Columbia, SC

About The Position

S&ME is seeking an early-career engineer or geologist to support civil, geotechnical, and environmental projects, with a focus on nuclear project sites. Projects may include site selection and due diligence, field exploration, and construction quality assurance services supporting permitting, licensing, and construction of nuclear facilities, including traditional light water reactors, small modular reactors, uranium enrichment facilities, and fuel fabrication facilities. The role involves substantial fieldwork in complex and regulated environments, along with data analysis, technical reporting, inspections, and collaboration with project teams and stakeholders. The position may be based in Knoxville, Charlotte, Raleigh, Columbia, Atlanta, Greenville-Spartanburg, or Columbus. Field assignments involve a rotational schedule of 10 days on and 4 days off, with employees returning home between rotations. The work includes outdoor conditions, uneven terrain, prolonged standing, and carrying equipment and samples. S&ME offers training, mentorship, career development, and participation in its employee-ownership program.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Geology, or a related field.
2 years of experience in geotechnical engineering, geology, or consulting.
Field subsurface exploration experience.
Ability to travel and work a 10-days-on/4-days-off rotational schedule during field assignments.
Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and on uneven terrain.
Ability to stand for extended periods, up to 12 or more hours.
Ability to routinely lift and carry 40–50 pounds of equipment and samples.

Nice To Haves

Experience working on nuclear projects or in highly regulated environments.
EIT, GIT, Professional Engineer (PE), or Professional Geologist (PG) credential.

Responsibilities

Conduct fieldwork including soil borings, drilling oversight, monitoring well installation, and in-situ testing.
Perform soil and rock classification and oversee the collection of soil, groundwater, and gas samples.
Lead and support subsurface exploration in complex and regulated environments, including nuclear project sites.
Analyze subsurface conditions and interpret geological and geotechnical data.
Support laboratory testing programs and evaluate results for engineering and environmental applications.
Assist in developing engineering recommendations based on field and laboratory data.
Prepare data tables, figures, and graphical presentations.
Compare findings with state and federal regulatory standards.
Develop technical reports for client and regulatory review.
Perform construction and environmental inspections.
Document site conditions and check compliance with project plans, specifications, and regulatory requirements.
Support quality assurance and field verification activities.
Coordinate with drilling contractors, laboratories, vendors, and project teams.
Communicate with internal staff, clients, and regulatory stakeholders.
Contribute to project planning and execution through clear technical communication.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision plans with HSA and FSA options.
Pet insurance.
100% employee stock ownership plan (ESOP), with a minimum 5% company contribution and automatic enrollment.
401(k) retirement plan.
Paid holidays and paid time off (PTO), with rollover options.
Paid maternity and parental leave.
Mentorship and career development programs.
Credential incentive program.
Tuition reimbursement.
Employee recognition program.
Company vehicle and fuel card for project-based roles.
$2,000 employee referral bonuses.