Description
Assist geotechnical engineers with field investigations and laboratory testing of soil and rock to characterize subsurface conditions for foundations, earthworks, pavements, and slopes. Collect and analyze samples; operate drilling, sampling, and in-situ testing equipment; install and monitor instrumentation; and compile logs, profiles, and data to support design and construction.
- • Collect disturbed and undisturbed soil and rock samples from borings, cores, and test pits.
- • Perform standard geotechnical laboratory tests (grain size, Atterberg limits, moisture-density, Proctor/CBR, shear strength, consolidation) per ASTM/AASHTO.
- • Prepare, label, and preserve samples; maintain chain of custody and laboratory intake logs.
- • Conduct in-situ tests such as SPT, CPT, DCP, field vane shear, permeability, infiltration, and plate load.
- • Record groundwater levels, seepage observations, and drilling conditions during investigations.
- • Install and monitor geotechnical instrumentation (piezometers, inclinometers, settlement plates, vibrating wire sensors).
- • Operate, calibrate, and maintain field and lab equipment, including nuclear density gauges and penetrometers.
- • Perform earthwork QA/QC, including soil compaction testing (nuclear gauge or sand cone) and subgrade evaluations.
- • Observe and document sampling and basic field tests of concrete, asphalt, and aggregates when required for geotechnical projects.
- • Compile, QA/QC, and enter field and laboratory data into databases or spreadsheets.
- • Create notes, sketches, subsurface profiles, and cross-sections; prepare figures for reports.
- • Use CAD/GIS or logging software to plot boring locations, logs, and test results.
- • Assist with geophysical surveys (seismic refraction/MASW, electrical resistivity, GPR) for subsurface characterization.
- • Evaluate and summarize lab and field results to support foundation, pavement, and earthwork recommendations under engineer supervision.
- • Prepare daily field reports, photographs, and logs for review.
- • Research previous investigations, geologic maps, and public databases to compile background subsurface information.
- • Coordinate drilling, utility clearance, site access, and traffic control with contractors and stakeholders.
- • Follow project specifications and test methods; ensure data completeness and traceability.
- • Adjust or perform minor repairs on testing and sampling equipment.
- • Lead or direct field crew activities to set up and operate equipment safely.
- • Measure and document settlement, deformation, and slope movement from instrumentation readings.
- • Plot and interpret CPT and SPT data, correction factors, and soil behavior types with software tools.
- • Assess and document site conditions and potential hazards such as soft ground, voids, expansive or collapsible soils, and liquefaction indicators.
- • Monitor erosion and sediment controls and stormwater conditions that affect subsurface work.
- • Assist with environmental screening of soils (e.g., PID readings) and management of investigation-derived waste when part of geotechnical programs.
- • Survey or verify boring and test pit locations and elevations using GPS or total station.
- • Participate in safety meetings; comply with OSHA and company safety procedures.
- • Log borings and test pits; classify soils using USCS; prepare boring and core logs.
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
