Staff Geotechnical Engineer in Training (On-site)
Engineering and Testing Services is expanding and has an opening for a Staff Geotechnical Engineer in Training to join our growing team.Engineering & Testing Services is a premier Geotechnical Engineering and Construction Materials Testing Firm serving Virginia and North Carolina. Our success is the result of having the most certified and experienced staff of Professional Geotechnical Engineers and field and laboratory technicians and inspectors in the area, working on high-profile transportation, municipal, federal, DoD, private, and globally recognized projects. As we continue to grow, we are actively expanding our team and taking on some of the most technically complex and robust projects in the region. ETS has a reputation for excellence in our field and operates the most advanced full-service geotechnical and materials testing laboratory in the region, accredited by AASHTO and validated by USACE. Our team boasts one of the highest certifications-per-employee ratios, and we pride ourselves on investing in every team member through ongoing education and training, providing the latest equipment, a strong support staff, and exceptional benefits.Position OverviewThe Staff Geotechnical Engineer in Training will play a vital role across all phases of geotechnical engineering and materials testing projects, including field exploration, laboratory testing, analysis, and technical report preparation. This position is ideal for an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) with relevant experience who is on a Professional Engineer (PE) track and expected to obtain licensure within two years or less. ETS provides a structured path for advancement to a Project Engineer role, supported by senior mentorship, hands-on project experience, and guidance throughout the licensure process.Responsibilities include (but are not limited to):Responsible for all phases of assigned geotechnical engineering and materials testing projects, from field exploration and instrumentation to analysis, interpretation, and reporting.Perform and oversee vibration and noise monitoring activities using specialized equipment (e.g., seismographs), including pre-construction surveys, real-time monitoring during construction, and post-construction evaluations to ensure compliance with project specifications and regulatory thresholds.Interpret vibration monitoring data (e.g., peak particle velocity, frequency) and prepare clear, concise reports for clients and project teams.Mentor engineering interns while continuing professional development under the guidance of Professional Geotechnical Engineers and experienced field and laboratory personnel.Prepare operation schedules and coordinate field and laboratory testing activities to ensure timeliness, efficiency, and compliance with project specifications.Maintain the Quality Manual and support execution of Quality Systems; serve as Laboratory Supervisor in the absence of the Laboratory Manager.Oversee specialized testing such as Dynamic Pile Testing using the Pile Driving Analyzer (PDA), as well as laboratory testing including Direct Shear and Triaxial testing.Perform and demonstrate field and laboratory testing procedures as needed to support project demands.Engage with clients and project stakeholders to ensure satisfaction, provide technical insight, and proactively resolve issues.Support proposal preparation, technical reporting, and continuous improvement initiatives within the geotechnical group.Contribute to a collaborative team environment that promotes technical excellence, safety, and professional growth.Qualification RequirementsEducation:Bachelor’s Degree in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering from an accredited four-year college or university.Engineer in Training (EIT) certification required.Professional Engineer (PE) license is a plus; candidates actively working toward PE licensure and expected to obtain it within two years or less are strongly preferred.Skills & Experience:Geotechnical analysis: bearing capacity, settlement, deep foundations, slope stability, seepage, liquefaction, and pavement design.Field exploration: SPT borings, rock coring, CPT soundings, dual-mass DCP, dilatometer.Foundation construction: shallow foundations, driven piles, augered cast piles, drilled shafts.Geotechnical report writing for roadways, bridges, buildings, marine piers, and bulkheads.Proficiency in Dynamic Pile Testing (PDA), Direct Shear, and Triaxial testing.Experience managing soils lab testing, lab technicians, drilling crews, and non-professional staff.Proficient in software such as L-Pile Plus 5.0, AllPile, GRLWEAP, STABL v3.0, gINT, Blastware, and Geosystem.Strong technical writing skills for client communication and technical report preparation.Ability to prepare schedules, coordinate testing activities, and maintain quality control.Ability to read, analyze, and interpret scientific and technical journals.Strong communication and multitasking skills in a fast-paced environment.Benefits and CompensationDelta Dental Insurance for employee (100% paid by ETS, Inc.); employees may elect coverage for family members up to age 26. Effective 90 days after employment.Sentara Health Insurance (50% paid by ETS, Inc. for employee); employees may elect family coverage up to age 26. Effective 90 days after employment.401(k) plan with ETS matching up to 3% annually.Company-provided cell phone, laptop, automobile, and fuel card. Paid training, certifications, and continuing education.7 paid holidays, 5 paid sick leave, and 10 paid vacation time/PTO.Why Join ETS?At ETS, we foster a collaborative environment where team members gain exposure to diverse, high-profile projects across transportation, municipal, industrial, and federal sectors. Staff Engineers are supported with mentorship, advanced tools, and opportunities for continuous career growth.________________________________________To learn more about ETS please visit our website at www.etsva.com.ETS, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and ensures nondiscrimination and equal employment opportunity in all programs and activities. ETS, Inc. is a participant in the E-Verify right to work program.