Field Geotechnical Engineer or Geologist - Nuclear

S&ME•Columbus, OH

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. The role provides exposure to different projects, teams, clients, and technical challenges, and involves fieldwork in demanding, complex, and regulated environments. Project work may include site selection and due diligence, field exploration, and construction quality assurance supporting permitting, licensing, and construction of nuclear facilities such as light water reactors, small modular reactors, uranium enrichment facilities, and fuel fabrication facilities. The position can be based in Knoxville, Charlotte, Raleigh, Columbia, Atlanta, Greenville-Spartanburg, or Columbus. Field assignments require travel and a rotational schedule of 10 days on and 4 days off, with employees returning home between rotations. The work includes outdoor field activities in varying weather and on uneven terrain, as well as extended periods standing and routinely carrying equipment and samples weighing 40–50 pounds. S&ME is a 100% employee-owned company. The role offers professional training, mentorship, career development, and hands-on experience. The position is full-time with competitive pay based on experience.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Geology, or a related field.
Two years of experience in geotechnical engineering, geology, or consulting.
Field subsurface exploration experience.
Ability to travel and work a rotational schedule of 10 days on and 4 days off 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.
Candidates must have valid employment eligibility (I-9); visa assistance is not available.

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.
Classify soil and rock 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 clear, organized technical reports for client and regulatory review.
Perform construction and environmental inspections.
Document site conditions and verify 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.
Professional training and mentorship.