Entry Level Field Engineer

Job Title: Entry Level Field EngineerJob Description

The Entry Level Field Engineer (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 and foundation installations, conducting soil and concrete tests, and documenting field activities to support civil engineering and construction projects. It offers significant overtime opportunities and a clear pathway into roles such as Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Technician or Inspector for long-term career growth.

Responsibilities

• Monitor drilling piles in the field and oversee the installation of foundations to ensure work follows project specifications and procedures.
• Complete detailed observation forms for each drilling pile and maintain accurate written records of field activities.
• Read and interpret basic construction blueprints, drawings, specifications, and diagrams to understand project requirements and site conditions.
• Operate testing equipment to perform field and laboratory tests on materials such as soil and concrete, following established methods and standards.
• Collect soil and concrete samples as a Materials Technician and ensure proper handling, labeling, and storage of all samples.
• Provide assessments of test data by preparing clear and concise reports that summarize findings and observations.
• Use specific methods to make detailed observations of site activities and provide limited interpretation of results under supervision.
• Maintain detailed documentation and data from test results, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and organization for project records.
• Use basic tools such as a stopwatch and tape measure to record measurements and timing during field activities.
• Work outdoors on active construction and solar project sites, adapting to varying site conditions and tasks as needed.
• Follow safety procedures and guidelines while working at various heights, on uneven terrain, and in changing weather conditions.
• Support civil and geotechnical teams on solar and commercial projects by performing assigned field engineering and testing tasks.
• Work flexible schedules, including overnight shifts, weekends, and extended hours, to support time-sensitive activities such as early-morning concrete pours.

Essential Skills

• Ability to read and understand basic construction blueprints, drawings, and diagrams.
• Basic technical and writing skills to accurately complete observation forms and field reports.
• Ability to operate testing equipment for soil, concrete, and other construction materials under guidance.
• Construction knowledge and familiarity with field civil engineering practices.
• Ability to use a stopwatch and tape measure to perform accurate measurements and time recordings.
• Valid driver's license and a reliable driving record.
• Ability to work off-shift and overtime as needed, including nights and weekends.
• 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 clearly.
• Ability to walk and stand for long periods of time on active construction sites.
• Ability to kneel and squat occasionally to perform tests and inspections at ground level.
• Ability to climb occasionally and work at various heights as required by site conditions.
• Ability to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions, including hot and cold temperatures.
• Willingness and ability to work overnight hours and off-shift schedules, including 10-12+ hour days up to 7 days a week.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Background or education in civil engineering, environmental science, or related disciplines is highly beneficial.
• Experience or familiarity with masonry, concrete, earthwork, rebar, and drilling operations.
• Interest in construction materials testing (CMT) and inspection work, with a desire to transition into CMT Technician or Inspector roles.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain thorough and accurate documentation.
• Motivation to pursue long-term growth opportunities within field engineering and construction testing.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced, project-driven environment with changing priorities and schedules.

Work Environment

This role is primarily field-based and involves working on a large solar project near Nixon, Texas, as well as various commercial projects in and around the San Antonio area. The position requires daily work on active construction sites, including uneven terrain, open fields, and partially developed structures. You will work closely with civil and geotechnical teams and report into a departmental leadership structure. The schedule is intensive and project-driven, with frequent 10-12+ hour shifts and the potential to work 65-75 hours per week. Work may occur at any time of day or night, including early-morning concrete pours (such as at 12 a.m., 2 a.m., or 4 a.m.) and up to seven days a week, depending on project needs. The environment includes exposure to outdoor conditions such as heat, cold, wind, and inclement weather. You may be required to climb, kneel, squat, and work at various heights while performing tests and observations. Standard field attire suitable for construction sites is expected, including appropriate footwear and personal protective equipment provided or required according to site safety policies. The role offers significant overtime opportunities and a clear path for advancement into long-term positions in construction materials testing and inspection.

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 $18.00 - $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 Aug 15, 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.