Entry Level Field Engineer - Construction

Engineering Field Technician

Job Description

The Engineering Field Technician performs a variety of field testing, project-specific observations, and site assessment duties under general supervision and following detailed procedures. This role focuses on monitoring drilled piles, overseeing foundation installations, and accurately documenting field activities to support civil and geotechnical engineering projects. The position offers extensive overtime opportunities, long-term growth, and a clear path to transition into roles such as Construction Materials Testing (CMT) technician or inspector.

Responsibilities

• Monitor drilling of piles and oversee the installation of foundations to ensure work follows project specifications and procedures.
• Complete a detailed observation form for each drilling pile, documenting measurements, conditions, and relevant field data.
• Read and interpret basic construction blueprints, drawings, specifications, and diagrams to understand project requirements and field activities.
• Operate testing equipment to perform field tests on materials such as soil, concrete, or other construction materials, following established methods and procedures.
• Collect, record, and organize test data, and provide clear assessments and summaries of results through written reporting.
• Use specific methods to make detailed observations of site activities and provide limited interpretation of findings under general supervision.
• Maintain accurate and thorough documentation of all tests, observations, and site assessments in accordance with project and company standards.
• Use basic tools such as a stopwatch and tape measure to record time, distance, and other measurements required for testing and observations.
• Communicate effectively with project personnel and supervisors to report field conditions, test results, and any issues observed on site.
• Follow safety guidelines and procedures while working on active construction sites, including working at heights and in varying weather conditions.
• Support civil and geotechnical department activities as needed and perform additional related duties as assigned.

Essential Skills

• Ability to read and understand basic construction blueprints, drawings, and diagrams.
• Experience or familiarity with operating testing equipment for soil, concrete, or other construction materials.
• Ability to use a stopwatch and tape measure accurately for field measurements.
• Basic technical and writing skills to complete detailed observation forms and reports.
• Valid driver's license and a reliable driving record.
• Ability to work off-shift, including overnight hours, and perform overtime as needed.
• Ability to lift, move, push, and pull 30 to 50 pounds frequently, and occasionally more than 50 pounds with assistance.
• Ability to receive detailed information through oral communication and distinguish sounds effectively.
• Ability to walk and stand for long periods of time on construction sites.
• Ability to kneel and squat occasionally while performing field tasks.
• Ability to climb occasionally and work at various heights.
• Ability to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions, including hot and cold temperatures.
• Availability to work 10-12+ hour days up to 7 days a week, as the project operates 7 days a week.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Foundation in civil engineering, environmental work, masonry, concrete, earthwork, rebar, or drilling is preferred.
• Interest in developing a career in Construction Materials Testing (CMT) or inspection.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accurate data collection and documentation.
• Ability to follow detailed procedures and work effectively under general supervision.
• Willingness to take on long-term projects and pursue growth opportunities within the field.

Work Environment

This role is field-based and involves working on active construction sites in support of civil and geotechnical projects. The Engineering Field Technician uses testing equipment for materials such as soil and concrete, along with basic tools like stopwatches and tape measures, to perform observations and collect data. The position requires working outdoors in varying and sometimes adverse weather conditions, including hot and cold temperatures. The project schedule operates 7 days a week, and technicians should expect to work 10-12+ hour shifts, including overnight and off-shift hours, with extensive overtime opportunities. The work involves frequent walking and standing for long periods, occasional kneeling, squatting, climbing, and working at various heights, as well as lifting and moving materials and equipment. The role supports the civil/geotechnical department and operates within a structured, safety-focused environment with clear procedures and long-term growth potential.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of San Antonio, TX.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $19.00 - $22.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in San Antonio,TX.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 23, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.