Field Technician I

Universal Engineering Sciences • North Charleston, SC

12d • Onsite

About The Position

UES is seeking an entry-level Field Technician I in Charleston, South Carolina, to support commercial and industrial construction projects through construction materials testing and field inspections. The role is primarily based outdoors at active construction sites, where the technician works with contractors, project teams, experienced technicians, supervisors, and project managers. The position offers hands-on learning, mentorship, training, and opportunities to pursue industry certifications and develop skills for advancement into more technical roles.

The work includes testing construction materials such as soil, concrete, asphalt, and aggregate, and learning how test results help determine whether construction meets project requirements and industry standards. The position requires extensive travel, approximately up to 70% of the time, including scheduled or short-notice travel to job sites, field locations, and regional offices. Work takes place in outdoor and operational environments and may involve variable schedules, early mornings, weekends, overtime, and potential overnight travel.

The role involves exposure to rugged or uneven terrain, construction and industrial noise, dirt, dust, sun, heat, humidity, and adverse weather. Physical duties may include lifting and carrying 35–50 pounds up to 75 feet, standing, walking, driving, operating equipment, and performing a range of movements required for fieldwork and inspections. Safety protocols, OSHA standards, and proper use of personal protective equipment are required.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record and ability to safely operate company-assigned vehicles.
• Commitment to workplace safety, including compliance with OSHA standards and company safety policies and proper use of PPE.
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and Field Data Collection (FDC) software or similar tools.
• Math skills sufficient to perform arithmetic using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals across units of measure.
• Ability to read, write, and interpret blueprints, procedures, manuals, technical documents, and reports related to drilling, safety, and project requirements.
• Time-management, organizational, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to complete work efficiently and accurately.
• Attention to detail in sample collection, testing procedures, and documentation.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, with a strong work ethic and commitment to quality.
• Flexibility to work varying schedules, including early mornings, weekends, overtime, and potential overnight travel, as project demands require.
• Willingness and ability to work outdoors in active construction and industrial environments and perform the physical tasks described.
• Ability to travel extensively, approximately up to 70% of the time.

Nice To Haves

• Vocational training or coursework in construction, engineering, geology, or a related field.
• 0–3 years of experience in a field-based, outdoor, or physically demanding role; construction, materials testing, geotechnical, or related industry experience is a plus.
• Applicable industry certifications, such as ACI Level 1 Concrete Testing, or ability to obtain certification within a specified time period.
• Enjoyment of outdoor, hands-on work; strong communication and relationship-building skills; dependability, adaptability, and willingness to learn.

Responsibilities

• Perform field testing on construction materials, including soil, concrete, asphalt, and aggregate.
• Learn how testing confirms that construction work meets project requirements and industry standards.
• Work with experienced technicians, supervisors, contractors, and project managers.
• Build professional relationships with crews and other professionals at project sites.
• Develop technical skills through field experience and ongoing training.
• Pursue applicable industry certifications, including opportunities such as ACI Concrete Testing certification.
• Follow OSHA standards, company safety policies, and PPE requirements during travel and on-site work.
• Collect samples, conduct testing, and document results accurately.
• Travel to job sites, field locations, and regional offices in support of business and client needs.

What This Job Offers

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