Geotechnical Field Inspector

About the role

Sanbell is a multi-disciplinary engineering, community planning, and design firm serving clients throughout the Western United States. An ENR Top 500 firm with 300+ team members and 13 office locations in Montana, Colorado, Nevada, California, Texas, and Washington. By joining the Sanbell team, you will work alongside a network of Cool + Smart + Talented + People (CSTP) with diverse technical expertise and experience. The Geotechnical Field Inspector performs construction materials testing, special inspection support, field sampling, and laboratory testing for Sanbell's Nevada projects, providing accurate, timely documentation to verify that construction materials and methods meet project requirements.

Work Location: Elko, NV • Job Type: Full-time

Responsibilities

• Perform field testing and inspection for earthwork, utility backfill, roadways, foundations, concrete, asphalt, reinforcing steel, masonry, structural steel, or other assigned construction activities within the employee's qualifications and certifications.
• Collect, identify, transport, log, prepare, cure, and test soil, aggregate, concrete, and asphalt samples in accordance with approved procedures and project requirements.
• Conduct laboratory testing using applicable ASTM, AASHTO, ACI, NAQTC, and project-specific methods; record results accurately and alert supervisory staff when results, site conditions, or construction practices may not meet requirements.
• Participate in geotechnical explorations, including test pits and drilling, and assist with soil classification, sampling, and documentation of subsurface conditions.
• Read and apply project plans, specifications, testing frequencies, and inspection requirements; work within limits of assigned certifications and request direction when conditions fall outside the assignment.
• Prepare complete daily field reports, test records, sample logs, photographs, and other documentation; submit reports and test data on time for technical and administrative review.
• Communicate professionally with contractors, clients, project managers, engineers, and laboratory staff while maintaining independence and accuracy in reporting observations and results.
• Inspect, operate, clean, and maintain field and laboratory equipment; report damaged, out-of-calibration, or unsafe equipment and help maintain organized work areas and records.
• Follow all safety requirements, including applicable radiation safety, traffic control, mine-site, personal protective equipment, and site-specific procedures.
• Support laboratory workload, project scheduling, and other geotechnical department needs when field assignments allow.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Ability to perform basic math, follow standardized test procedures, read plans and specifications, use mobile and computer-based reporting tools, and prepare clear and accurate written records.
• Strong communication, dependability, situational awareness, and time-management skills.
• Must be able to work independently in the field while coordinating with project and laboratory staff.
• Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record.
• Availability for variable start and end times, overtime, weekend work, and occasional overnight travel based on construction schedules and project locations.

Qualifications

• College coursework, technical school training, or an associate degree in construction technology, engineering technology, geology, or a related field is preferred.
• Construction materials testing, special inspection, geotechnical, laboratory, or construction experience is preferred.
• Entry-level candidates with strong mechanical aptitude and a willingness to train may be considered.
• Current ACI, NAQTC, or ICC certifications are preferred.
• The ability to obtain and maintain certifications required for assigned work is required; additional training may include nuclear gauge safety, MSHA, OSHA, HAZMAT, and project-specific qualifications.

Benefits

• Employer-Paid Medical Insurance
• Employer-Paid Dental and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) with 4% Match
• Paid Holidays and Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Employer-Paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Paid Parental Leave Program
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contribution
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• FSA Dependent Care Plan (Section 129)
• Reimbursement for Certification and License Expenses
• Bring Your Good Dog to Work (select offices)
• Employer-Paid Life Insurance
• Tuition Assistance
• Bonus Opportunities