Staff Engineer

About the role

We are seeking a motivated Geotechnical Engineer to join our growing engineering consulting team. This individual will support geotechnical investigations, construction materials testing, and engineering analysis for a variety of infrastructure and construction projects. The role offers a mix of field and office responsibilities, providing hands-on experience with site investigations, laboratory testing, client interaction, and technical report preparation. This position is ideal for an early-career engineer looking to expand their geotechnical expertise, gain project management experience, and work toward obtaining their Professional Engineer (PE) license.

Responsibilities

• Perform field and laboratory testing related to geotechnical engineering and construction materials.
• Conduct site observations and monitor construction activities to ensure compliance with project specifications.
• Collect, document, and analyze field data and testing results.
• Assist with the preparation of geotechnical engineering reports, recommendations, and technical documentation.
• Develop engineering solutions and make project recommendations for review by senior engineers.
• Prepare proposals and cost estimates for geotechnical investigations and materials testing projects.
• Manage small-scale geotechnical and construction materials testing projects from initiation through completion.
• Maintain regular communication with clients and support ongoing business relationships.
• Collaborate with engineers and project teams on larger, more complex projects while independently managing assigned tasks.
• Support professional development efforts, including experience requirements toward Professional Engineer (PE) licensure.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Construction Engineering, Materials Engineering, or a related field.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
• Experience performing field testing, construction materials testing, or geotechnical investigations.
• Strong technical writing and report preparation skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
• Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly and up to 75 pounds occasionally.
• Willingness to perform field-related work at least 50% of the time.
• Ability to travel up to 25% as required for project needs.

Qualifications

• Prior engineering consulting experience (0-4 years).
• Geotechnical engineering experience.
• Experience with construction materials testing and field inspection services.
• Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification or progress toward obtaining licensure.
• Experience preparing technical reports and engineering recommendations.

Work environment

This role offers a combination of office, laboratory, and field work. Employees should expect to spend approximately 50% or more of their time performing field services at project sites, with travel throughout the local region as needed. The company supports a robust environment for geotechnical work in Iowa.

Job type & location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Cedar Rapids, IA.

Pay

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $33.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Benefits

• 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 Cedar Rapids, IA.