About Our Company
LGC Geotechnical, Inc. is an established geotechnical consulting firm providing professional engineering and geologic services throughout Southern California. Our projects include master-planned residential communities, commercial and industrial developments, public infrastructure, and custom residential construction.
We are involved in some of Southern California's most technically challenging and diverse projects and take pride in delivering responsive service, practical solutions, and high-quality technical work.
About the Position
LGC Geotechnical is seeking an experienced, motivated, and dependable Senior Soils Field Technician to join our team. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in grading observation and soils testing, sound technical judgment, and the ability to independently manage field assignments on active construction projects.
This position requires strong communication and problem-solving skills, the ability to identify and address field issues proactively, and the professionalism to work effectively with contractors, superintendents, project managers, and clients.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Independently perform geotechnical observation and testing during rough grading, precise grading, post-grading, and other earthwork construction activities.
• Observe and evaluate excavation bottoms, remedial grading, keyways, fill placement, moisture conditioning, compaction, utility trench backfill, and related earthwork operations.
• Perform field density and moisture testing using nuclear density gauges, sand cone equipment, and other applicable testing methods.
• Identify unsuitable soil conditions, deficient compaction, and potential geotechnical concerns, and promptly communicate findings to project managers.
• Review and interpret plans, geotechnical reports, and construction specifications to verify compliance with project requirements.
• Coordinate with contractors, superintendents, and project managers to facilitate efficient construction activities and address routine field issues.
• Collect representative soil samples for laboratory testing and perform geotechnical instrumentation monitoring as required.
• Prepare accurate, thorough, and timely daily field reports documenting construction activities, observations, testing results, and relevant site conditions.
• Provide technical guidance and support to less-experienced field technicians as needed.
• Maintain strong professional relationships with clients, contractors, and project representatives while representing LGC Geotechnical in the field.
Qualifications and Experience
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in geotechnical field observation, grading operations, and soils testing.
• Strong understanding of earthwork construction, soil compaction requirements, and applicable field testing procedures.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, exercise sound technical judgment, and recognize potentially problematic geotechnical conditions.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting plans, geotechnical reports, and construction specifications.
• Strong communication, organizational, documentation, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to coordinate effectively with construction personnel and project managers.
• Experience with large-scale grading operations, residential developments, and commercial construction preferred.
• Valid California driver's license and reliable personal transportation.
Certifications
• Nuclear Density Gauge Operator Certification (required).
• ACI, ICC, or other applicable construction materials testing certifications (preferred).
Physical and Field Requirements
• Ability to safely transport and operate portable nuclear density gauges weighing approximately 50 pounds, or up to approximately 100 pounds with their transport containers.
• Ability to perform physically demanding fieldwork, including shoveling, lifting, carrying equipment, and collecting soil samples weighing approximately 50 pounds.
• Ability to remain on your feet for prolonged periods, including extended standing, walking, bending, squatting, kneeling, and climbing throughout the workday.
• Ability to frequently navigate uneven terrain, slopes, excavations, and other challenging conditions commonly encountered on active construction sites.
• Ability to work outdoors for extended periods in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, wind, and rain.
• Willingness to use a personal vehicle for travel to and within construction sites, including off-road driving when necessary. Company vehicles are not provided.
• Ability to work independently in the field, with the majority of the workday spent at construction sites.
Work Schedule
• Typical work hours fall between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday, depending on project requirements.
• Flexibility to work extended hours, overtime, and occasional weekends as needed to accommodate construction schedules.
Compensation and Benefits
LGC Geotechnical offers competitive compensation commensurate with experience and qualifications, along with a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Paid time off and paid holidays.
• A stable, team-oriented work environment with opportunities to work on diverse and technically challenging projects.
Apply Today
If you are an experienced soils technician who takes pride in producing quality work, exercises sound field judgment, and enjoys working independently on challenging construction projects, we encourage you to apply and become part of the LGC Geotechnical team.
LGC Geotechnical, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Total Estimated Compensation DOE/DOQ
Estimated annual compensation is between $50,000 to $90,000 DOE/DOQ. For work-related vehicle use we provide reimbursement of $5/hr. and $0.76/mile. In addition, regular opportunities for overtime and prevailing wage projects are occasional.
