Common Career Paths in Geotechnical, Environmental, and Construction Testing

The work in geotechnical engineering, environmental science, and construction testing reaches into almost every type of project. Because these fields cover such a broad range of work, career paths are just as varied. 

There are opportunities for people who are just beginning their careers as well as for those who already have years of experience. Some professionals work in the field, testing soil and concrete on active sites. Others work in laboratories, studying samples and checking if materials meet required standards. 

Whether your strength lies in technical testing, data interpretation, or environmental assessment, there is room to grow and specialize in this industry.

In this blog, we’ll look at several of the most common positions across the field. Each section highlights what the role involves and what a typical workday might look like, offering a clear view of the paths available in geotechnical, environmental, and construction testing.

An Overview of Career Opportunities in the Field

Construction Observation and Testing (COT) Technician

COT Technicians are responsible for monitoring construction sites to ensure that materials and workmanship meet project specifications. They perform field and laboratory tests on soil, concrete, asphalt, and other construction materials to verify quality and compliance.

Responsibilities often include:

• Conducting field density tests and concrete sampling
• Performing special inspections during construction
• Recording and reporting field and lab data
• Communicating findings with engineers and contractors

Typical environment:
Most of the work happens outdoors on active construction sites. Days vary with technicians visiting multiple projects, interacting with contractors and engineers, and recording results that feed back into project quality control.

The ideal candidate:
This role suits individuals who enjoy being outdoors and appreciate hands-on work. Certifications such as ACI or NICET are usually beneficial for advancement.

Geotechnical Field and Engineering Technician

Geotechnical Field and Engineering Technicians help assess subsurface conditions by collecting soil and rock samples, logging borings, and conducting in-situ field tests. The data they gather helps engineers determine the suitability of a site for construction and informs foundation design.

Responsibilities often include:

• Supporting drilling operations and collecting samples
• Conducting field and lab tests for soil classification and strength
• Assisting engineers with data interpretation and reporting

Typical environment:
Work is split between the field (supporting drilling or sampling) and the office/lab (processing data, preparing reports). Projects might include roads, bridges, building foundations, and slope stability studies.

The ideal candidate:
This position is a good fit for individuals who are curious about geology, enjoy outdoor work, and want to gain a deeper understanding of how natural materials affect construction.

Laboratory Technician

Laboratory Technicians analyze construction and geotechnical materials under controlled conditions to ensure they meet performance standards.

Responsibilities often include:

• Testing soil, asphalt, and concrete samples
• Recording and analyzing test results
• Maintaining equipment calibration and quality control procedures

Typical environment:
These jobs are primarily lab-based within dedicated testing facilities. The work is precise and procedural, involving calibrated equipment and strict documentation.

The ideal candidate:
For those who enjoy detailed, data-driven work, laboratory roles provide a structured environment and are essential to project accuracy and safety.

Drilling and Subsurface Exploration Specialist

Drillers and their crews collect the data that forms the foundation for geotechnical and environmental analysis. They operate drilling rigs, obtain core samples, and install monitoring wells that allow engineers to study soil and groundwater conditions.

Responsibilities often include:

• Operating and maintaining drilling equipment
• Extracting samples for laboratory testing
• Supporting environmental and geotechnical investigations

Typical environment:
Almost entirely field-based. Work is often outdoors in varying weather conditions, with travel between project sites.

The ideal candidate:
This role is well-suited for mechanically inclined individuals who enjoy physical work, problem-solving, and working outdoors.

Environmental Scientist and Natural Resources Specialist

As sustainability and environmental compliance become more central to development, environmental consulting and natural resources positions are increasingly growing. These roles combine science and regulatory knowledge, offering opportunities to contribute to sustainable development and conservation.

Responsibilities often include:

• Conducting site assessments and field sampling
• Performing wetlands delineations and habitat studies
• Managing remediation and environmental permitting processes

Typical environment:
A mix of office analysis, field sampling, and regulatory documentation. Some roles focus on ecological fieldwork, while others emphasize compliance reporting and data interpretation.

The ideal candidate:
The ideal candidate would be a professional with a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Geology, or Environmental Engineering, and possess strong knowledge of local, state, and federal regulations, including experience in their implementation and guidance.

Project Manager and Senior Engineer

Project managers and senior engineers draw from years of experience in the field, bringing both technical expertise and leadership to their teams. Their roles focus on coordinating teams, reviewing data, managing budgets, and ensuring quality and compliance across multiple disciplines.

Responsibilities may include:

• Overseeing field and laboratory operations
• Managing client communications and project timelines
• Providing technical oversight and mentoring junior staff

The ideal candidate:
In addition to the required years of experience, this role requires strong leadership, mentoring, and team management abilities.

Start Your Career with GTA

With more than 27 offices across the Mid-Atlantic, Southeast, Midwest, and Texas, GTA brings together over 600 engineers, scientists, technicians, and support professionals. Our collaborative, multidisciplinary teams work on projects that shape communities from geotechnical investigations to environmental consulting and construction observation.

If you’re looking to start or advance your career at a growth-oriented firm, GTA is actively seeking new talent, and we’d love to hear from you! Learn more by visiting our careers page at: gtaeng.com/careers