Engineering Technician I

33334BR

Service Line : Materials

Office Name : Des Moines

Job Description :

Gain valuable experience with Terracon over the summer! This position is for May through August 2026 but can extend to a Co-Op position through Fall 2026 if so desired.

As a Construction Materials Field Professional, you are entrusted to protect our client’s biggest investments and work alongside our industry partners to help solve their construction related challenges. Your role includes performing critical materials testing, observation and inspection services on construction projects that impact the quality of our communities including : transportation projects, such as roadways, bridges, airports, large commercial developments, power generation and transmission, such as wind farms and solar farms, healthcare, K-12 schools and higher education facilities, and more. By using Terracon’s innovative technology you will provide high quality, high speed, documentation of your results / observations to our clients and industry partners. This service keeps everyone informed and allows our partners to address deviations quickly, saving time and money. Critical testing and inspections may include field or laboratory testing of soils, concrete, and asphalt as well as field observations and inspections for foundations, reinforcing steel, masonry and structural steel to improve the durability and safety and ensure compliance with project plans and specifications.

General Responsibilities :

Perform field and / or laboratory testing, observation, and inspection of construction materials (e.g. soils, aggregates, concrete, asphalt, and steel). Communicate with project manager, engineering technicians, client representative, contractor’s representative and others as applicable regarding the construction site, project requirements, and testing, observation, and inspection requirements and results. Transport material samples with associated identifying documentation to the laboratory for further testing and analysis. Tabulate, prepare, and submit data and observation in the form of written and digital reports as work is performed for daily transmittal to the Terracon Project Manager. Maintain and clean equipment, vehicles and work areas. Adhere to strict safety standards.

Essential Roles and Responsibilities :

Under close supervision of higher level technicians or staff professionals, assist on tasks and perform basic testing and observations duties.

Provides clear documentation of findings and results.

Communicates information to Project Manager and discusses accuracy of data in preparation for submittal.

Submits documentation and communicates results as directed by the Project Manager

Will be placed in a progressively increased role of training and responsibility in work assignments.

Maintains assigned equipment.

Follow safety rules and practices and other safety requirements for all projects. Perform pre-task planning prior to executing work. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.

Be responsible for maintaining quality standards on all projects.

Requirements :

High school diploma or equivalent

Valid driver’s license with acceptable violation history.

Exemption : Non-exempt

Requisition ID : 33334BR

Posting Title :

Summer 2026 - Construction Materials Testing Engineering Technician

Employment Type : Seasonal Worker

City, State (Office Location) :

Des Moines, IA

About Terracon :

Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 7,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 180 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon’s growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace.

Terracon’s vision of “Together, we are best at people” is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.

EEO Statement :

Terracon is an EEO employer. We encourage qualified minority, female, veteran and disabled candidates to apply and be considered for open positions. We do not discriminate against any applicant for employment, or any employee because of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender, disability, age, or military status.

Job Category :

Technician / Inspector

Expected Salary Range :

The expected salary range for this position is listed below. The base range may be adjusted based on the specific location of the applicant. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience.

• For California residents please note : A valid driver’s license with acceptable violation history may be required for positions that require driving.