Field Technician I

Universal Engineering Sciences • Ashland, VA

13d • Onsite

About The Position

UES is hiring an early-career Field Technician I to support construction and infrastructure projects through field testing and inspections of construction materials. The role offers hands-on experience and training alongside industry professionals, with opportunities to develop technical knowledge and pursue industry certifications. The technician works independently at job sites while staying connected with project managers, contractors, and field teams, and uses technology to record observations and test results. Extensive travel—up to approximately 70%—is required, and schedules may vary based on project needs.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record and ability to operate assigned vehicles safely.
• Commitment to workplace safety, OSHA standards, company safety policies, and proper use of personal protective equipment.
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office Suite and Field Data Collection software or similar tools.
• Mathematical ability to perform calculations 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 ability to complete tasks 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 high-quality results.
• Flexibility to work varying schedules, including early mornings, weekends, overtime, and potential overnight travel as project demands require.
• Ability to travel extensively, approximately up to 70% of the time, including scheduled and short-notice travel.
• Ability to work outdoors in changing job-site and weather conditions.
• Ability to lift or carry 35 to 50 pounds up to 75 feet and perform repetitive motions.
• Ability to stand, walk, drive, and operate equipment for extended periods; use hands and arms frequently; and bend, twist, reach, stoop, pull, kneel, climb, balance, lift, carry, and push as fieldwork requires.
• Ability to communicate effectively by speaking and hearing in noisy environments and use required visual, auditory, tactile, and other senses for fieldwork.

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.
• Experience in construction, materials testing, or another outdoor or hands-on environment.
• A degree or coursework in civil engineering, geology, construction, or a related field, or construction-focused trade school experience.
• Genuine interest in building a career in construction or civil engineering.

Responsibilities

• Perform field testing and inspections involving concrete, soil, asphalt, aggregate, and other construction materials.
• Help verify that construction work and materials meet project and industry standards.
• Work independently at job sites while coordinating with project managers, contractors, and field teams.
• Record accurate field observations and test results using field data tools and other technology.
• Maintain testing equipment and the assigned company vehicle.
• Build technical knowledge through hands-on training and industry certification opportunities.
• Follow established safety practices while working on active construction sites.

What This Job Offers

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