Geotechnical & Construction Materials Testing (PE)

Universal Engineering Sciences•Wichita, KS

About The Position

UES is seeking an experienced Professional Engineer with a background in geotechnical engineering and construction materials testing (CMT) to support its engineering teams. The position works across both Geotechnical and CMT departments, providing engineering solutions and oversight throughout design and construction. The role combines technical problem-solving, project management, and collaboration with field and laboratory teams. Geotechnical work includes planning and overseeing subsurface investigations, evaluating site and laboratory data, developing recommendations for foundations and earthwork, performing or reviewing engineering analyses, preparing reports, and guiding field and laboratory personnel. CMT work includes engineering oversight of testing and inspection for soils, concrete, asphalt, masonry, and reinforcing steel; reviewing test results and project documentation; addressing nonconforming results; and supporting quality assurance and quality control. The role also manages projects, coordinates with clients and project teams, supports proposals and business development, maintains client relationships, and mentors junior engineers and technical staff. Extensive travel of approximately up to 20% is required. Work is primarily outdoors and may take place at job sites, field locations, or regional offices, with exposure to rugged terrain, construction environments, noise, dust, chemicals, sun, heat, humidity, and varying weather. PPE and adherence to company safety protocols are required during travel and onsite work.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Geotechnical, or a related Engineering discipline.
5–8 years of geotechnical engineering experience.
Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification required.
Demonstrated proficiency in advanced geotechnical analysis and design methods.
Strong leadership, communication, and mentoring skills.
Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously with minimal oversight.
Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel.
Ability to travel extensively, approximately up to 20% of the time, including on short notice as project needs require.
Ability to lift and carry 35–75 lbs. over distances up to 75 feet, with regular repetitive motion.
Ability to stand, walk, drive, operate laboratory and field equipment for extended periods, and perform the bending, twisting, reaching, stooping, pulling, kneeling, climbing, balancing, lifting, carrying, and pushing required for field and laboratory work.
Ability to work outdoors in rugged or uneven terrain and in construction and laboratory environments, with exposure to noise, dirt, dust, chemicals, sun, heat, humidity, and varying weather.
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing in laboratory and field environments, including while using PPE.

Nice To Haves

Professional Engineer (PE) license, or progress toward obtaining one.
Master’s degree in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering.
Experience in an engineering consulting environment supporting both Geotechnical and CMT operations.
Experience developing foundation recommendations, evaluating subsurface conditions, and preparing geotechnical reports.
Familiarity with ASTM, ACI, ICC, DOT, and applicable construction testing standards.
Experience managing engineering projects, budgets, schedules, and client relationships.
Previous experience mentoring engineers, field technicians, or laboratory personnel.

Responsibilities

Plan, coordinate, and oversee geotechnical subsurface investigations, drilling programs, soil sampling, field exploration, and associated laboratory work.
Evaluate subsurface conditions and laboratory data to develop engineering recommendations for foundations, earthwork, and site development.
Perform or review geotechnical analyses, including bearing capacity, settlement, slope stability, retaining structures, and seismic design considerations.
Prepare and review geotechnical reports, engineering calculations, specifications, technical recommendations, and cost estimates.
Provide technical guidance to geotechnical field personnel, drilling crews, laboratory technicians, CMT field technicians, inspectors, and laboratory personnel.
Provide engineering oversight for construction materials testing and inspection projects involving soils, concrete, asphalt, masonry, and reinforcing steel.
Review field testing results, laboratory reports, construction plans, and specifications for compliance with project requirements.
Evaluate nonconforming test results and construction conditions and provide technical recommendations and corrective solutions.
Review and approve engineering reports, technical documentation, project deliverables, and work prepared by junior engineers and technicians.
Manage engineering projects across Geotechnical and CMT departments, including schedules, budgets, resources, and deliverables.
Coordinate with project managers, contractors, clients, and internal technical teams to support successful project execution.
Build and maintain client relationships, serve as the primary technical contact on assigned projects, and identify opportunities for additional engineering services.
Assist with proposals, scope development, cost estimates, and business development efforts.
Oversee foundation design, earth retention, pavement, and ground improvement projects.
Use advanced geotechnical software for modeling and analysis, such as PLAXIS, GeoStudio, and gINT.
Conduct site visits and construction observations to assess adherence to geotechnical recommendations.
Mentor and provide technical training to junior engineers, field technicians, and laboratory professionals.
Promote technical excellence, safety, and quality assurance and quality control across construction projects.