Soils Laboratory Technician

About the Role

ECS Limited is offering a unique opportunity for a Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Soils Laboratory Technician to join our Buffalo Grove team. No prior experience is necessary—paid training and certification fee coverage are provided. This role offers opportunities for growth with additional incentives as you earn certifications. You'll work under the guidance of experienced professionals to learn to safely perform tasks in our concrete and soils laboratories.

Responsibilities

• Performs basic laboratory tests on soil and construction material samples under supervision
• Assists with sample preparation and testing procedures
• Compiles test results, data input, data processing, and other administrative duties
• Performs soils laboratory testing including, but not limited to, under supervision:
  • Atterberg limits
  • Gradation analyses
  • Swell testing
  • Moisture content testing
  • Visual classifications (begin to learn)
  • Unconfined compressive strength testing of soil and rock
  • Standard and modified proctor testing
• Assists in maintaining a clean and organized laboratory environment
• Supports calibration and maintenance of laboratory equipment
• Maintains calibration records and documentation in accordance with QA/QC and accreditation requirements
• Notifies supervisors of damaged or missing equipment
• Assists with additional laboratory functions and occasional fieldwork as needed

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required
• 0 years of related experience required (no prior experience necessary)
• Obtain lab certifications applicable to the lab work performed as per the ECS Technician Certification Policy
• If work is performed in both soils and concrete labs, certifications are required for both laboratories
• If driving for or on behalf of any ECS subsidiary, a valid driver’s license is required
• Strong communication and basic math skills
• Attention to detail and accuracy in data recording
• Dependable, self-motivated, and responsible work ethic
• Ability to follow directions and work under close supervision
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Word and Excel
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds multiple times per day

Military Qualifications

The following US Military rank will qualify for this position if they also meet the education and license requirements listed above:

• E-4

Pay

The expected pay range for this role and location is $20–$24 per hour. The final agreed-upon compensation will be determined based on specific location and other individual qualifications.

About the Company

ECS Group of Companies (ECS) was founded in 1988 with the goal to raise the standards of professional engineering consulting. Today, we are a leader in geotechnical, construction materials, environmental, and facilities consulting services. We are employee-owned with more than 3,000 employees in 100+ offices and testing facilities coast to coast. ECS is currently ranked #60 in Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms (April 2026), #148 in Engineering News-Record’s Top 200 Environmental Firms (October 2025), and #50 in Zweig Group’s Hot Firm List (May 2025).