Geotechnical Engineering Intern (Summer 2026)

Overview

At UES, we're a team of more than 4,000 engineers, scientists, geologists, inspectors, technicians, and drillers united by a shared purpose-to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. As a national leader in geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, and materials testing and inspection, we collaborate on transformative projects across transportation, energy, water, healthcare, and more. Learn more about the benefits of joining Team UES and our core values at careers.teamues.com.

Position Overview

Universal Engineering Sciences (UES) is seeking a motivated Geotechnical Engineering Intern to support our field and laboratory teams on active geotechnical and construction projects. This internship is ideal for students interested in soil mechanics, geotechnical design, construction materials, or civil engineering who want hands-on experience that builds technical skills and industry knowledge.

As a Geotechnical Intern, you will assist with soil classification, boring log creation, field sampling, and data documentation. You will work alongside experienced engineers, drillers, and technicians to learn how geotechnical investigations are conducted and how subsurface data supports design and construction decisions.

What You'll Do:

• Assist with soil classification, including visual/manual identification and laboratory support
• Support the creation and documentation of boring logs
• Perform fieldwork, including collecting soil samples using borings, hand augers, and other sampling tools
• Properly label, log, and organize materials to ensure accurate project data
• Maintain quality assurance standards throughout field and lab work
• Help calibrate, clean, and maintain field and laboratory testing equipment
• Prepare accurate field notes, reports, and documentation
• Follow all company policies, safety standards, and technical procedures

What You'll Gain:

• Hands-on experience in geotechnical field investigations and materials testing
• Exposure to drilling operations, sampling methods, and laboratory procedures
• Direct mentorship from geotechnical engineers, drillers, and technicians
• Strengthened technical, analytical, and documentation skills
• A deeper understanding of how subsurface data informs engineering design
• Opportunities for future internships or full-time roles in geotechnical engineering

Who We're Looking For:

• Students pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Geological Sciences, or related fields
• Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn technical processes
• Comfortable working outdoors and in varying field conditions
• Excellent teamwork, communication, and organizational skills
• Interest in geotechnical engineering, soil mechanics, or construction

Responsibilities

• Assist with soil classifications and boring log creation using AutoCAD
• Collect field samples with a hand auger and update boring logs
• Organize, label, and log material samples in accordance with quality assurance standards
• Maintain accurate and detailed field and lab reports
• Calibrate and clean testing equipment as required
• Adhere to company and safety protocols at all times
• Other duties may be assigned

Qualifications

Currently pursuing an associate's or bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Geology, or a related field.

Basic understanding of construction materials and testing procedures is a plus.

Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and on active construction sites.

Must possess a valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

Ability to pass a background check screening

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for documentation and reporting

Travel Requirements

This position requires moderate travel, approximately up to 20% of the time, in support of business
objectives and client engagements. Travel may be both scheduled and on short notice, depending on
project needs. Destinations typically include job sites, field locations, or regional offices, where work may
be conducted in outdoor or operational environments. Adherence to all company safety protocols and
use of PPE is required during travel and on-site work.

#LI-CB1

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• This position operates in a hybrid work environment, requiring flexibility to work effectively from both a laboratory and field work setting.
• Laboratory Environment:
  • Regular exposure to moderate to loud noise levels from laboratory equipment, ventilation systems, and instrumentation.
  • Routine handling of chemicals, biological samples, and lab equipment, requiring adherence to strict safety protocols.
  • Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as lab coats, gloves, safety goggles, and respiratory protection.
  • Possible exposure to chemical odors, dust, or temperature fluctuations within the lab environment.
• Field Environment:
  • Work at outdoor sites including wetlands, forests, grasslands, construction zones, and undeveloped land.
  • Travel on foot across uneven, rugged, or obstructed terrain, sometimes in areas inaccessible by vehicle.
  • Exposure to varying weather conditions including heat, cold, humidity, rain, or sun.
  • Possible presence of insects, animals, or natural and man-made hazards in field environments.
• Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to lift and carry between 35-75 lbs. of equipment or samples over distances up to 75 feet.
  • Ability to stand, walk, drive, and operate lab and field equipment for extended periods.
  • Frequent use of hands and arms for sampling, operating tools/instruments, data entry, and testing procedures.
  • Ability to bend, twist, reach, stoop, kneel, climb, and balance as needed during both lab and fieldwork.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in both verbal and written formats in varied environments, often while wearing PPE.
  • Ability to use sensory capabilities to see (including close and distant vision, color perception, depth perception, and focus) and smell for observation and safety purposes

EEO Statement

UES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is proud to recruit the most qualified candidates. Please see our full EEO Statement at the bottom of the page here