Geotechnical Technician
Position Overview
Woolpert is hiring a Geotechnical Technician to join our dynamic Infrastructure Team at our Harrisburg, PA office. This position reports to the Geotechnical Team Leader and is responsible performing intermediate-level geotechnical field and laboratory testing in support of public and private infrastructure projects. Works under the general supervision of senior technicians, engineers, and project managers. Responsibilities include conducting standardized field and lab tests, documenting results, supporting drilling operations, and ensuring compliance with quality and safety procedures for the Aviation, Water, and Transportation Markets.
We are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Applicants must already possess work authorization in the country the job is located.
What You Will Do:
Collect and document soil, concrete, asphalt, and aggregate samples in accordance with project requirements
Support geotechnical drilling operations: log samples, assist drill crews, and prepare boring logs
Maintain accurate and complete field notes, test results, chain of custody documentation, and daily activity reports
Perform geotechnical field testing including nuclear density gauges, soil classification, compaction testing, moisture content testing, and concrete/asphalt sampling
Assist with typed boring logs and geotechnical report preparation
Apply established techniques, procedures, and testing criteria consistently
Calibrate, maintain, and operate field/lab equipment with minimal guidance
Observe site construction activities for compliance with plans, specifications, and material requirements
Communicate test results and deficiencies to contractors and senior personnel
Assist in reviewing and interpreting project plans, site drawings, and specifications
Support contract documentation, reporting, and project recordkeeping
Identify and communicate work items deemed unacceptable
Assist with training and mentoring entry-level technicians
Follow Woolpert safety standards and ensure safety protocols are executed on job sites
Contribute to tracking project progress, resolving issues, and supporting quality assurance and quality control processes
What You Will Bring:
High school diploma or equivalent required.
3+ years of combined experience in geotechnical drilling inspection or related fieldwork required.
Valid driver's license required.
10-Hour OSHA Construction Certificate or ability to obtain required.
PennDOT Drill Inspection Certification or ability to obtain required.
Demonstrated knowledge of geotechnical field and laboratory testing standards (ASTM, AASHTO)
Ability to complete accurate and detailed field and laboratory documentation
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to safely work on active construction sites
Ability to read and understand site plans, specifications, and technical documents
Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently in the field
PREFERRED EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE:
Associates or higher-level degree in a related field preferred.
Completed internship and coursework in geotechnical engineering with hands-on field and lab experience preferred.
Field & lab expertise: Conducting soil and rock sampling, in-situ tests (SPT, CPT), advanced lab testing, and site investigations.
Data management & reporting: Organizing, analyzing, and reporting geotechnical data using software like gINT, Excel, or AutoCAD.
Technical knowledge & safety: Understanding soil mechanics, construction practices, and site safety; ability to work independently and support engineering decisions.
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:
Work in both field and office environments.
Frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting, and climbing on construction sites.
Operate and manipulate standard field and laboratory testing equipment.
Sit for extended periods for documentation and reporting.
Exposure to outdoor weather conditions, uneven terrain, loud equipment, and construction site hazards.
Frequently lift/move 25lbs and occasionally lift/move up to 50lbs.
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS: • Travel up to 75%, including potential overnight stays, holidays, and weekends
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Benefits You Will Love
Certified as a Great Place to Work, Woolpert is one of the fastest-growing architecture, engineering, and geospatial companies in the world. With over 75 offices and countless projects around the globe, you’ll work on meaningful assignments that improve quality of life around the world. In addition to offering competitive pay, we provide employees with a robust set of unique benefits, including:
Freedom to Work program: Set your own schedule and location (as appropriate).
Principal program: Earn the opportunity to become an owner of the firm.
Flexible paid time off/vacation: Take time off when it makes sense for you and your team.
Career development: Explore a wide range of learning and growth opportunities within and across industries.
Health, life, vision, and dental insurance: Cover all your medical bases.
Paid sick time, retirement plan, fitness reimbursement, pet insurance, identity protection, technology stipend, employee assistance program, and more!
Base pay offered may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.
Pay Range
$31.63—$47.50 USD