Geotechnical Technician

Koontz Bryant Johnson Williams (KBJW) is seeking a Geotechnical Technician to join our dynamic growing team in our Chesterfield, VA office.

Named a 2025 Top Workplace by the Richmond Times-Dispatch, KBJW is a fun, family-oriented business, dedicated to the success of our employees, clients, and our communities. For more than 30 years, we have served as a leading engineering firm in the Mid-Atlantic Region. With our rapid growth and several strategic acquisitions there is an excellent opportunity to begin a fulfilling career at KBJW.

KBJW offers interesting projects, a friendly atmosphere, professional development, and a competitive benefits package. We look for employees who are willing to work hard, solve problems and help us grow.

Position Summary:

The primary function of a Geotechnical Technician is to assist engineers and geologists in assessing soil, rock, and groundwater conditions for various construction and infrastructure projects. This role involves conducting field and laboratory tests, analyzing soil properties, and assisting with report preparation to support engineering decisions.

Job Responsibilities:

• Conduct soil and rock sampling using hand augering, drilling, test pits, and other geotechnical exploration methods.
• Perform in-situ testing, such as probing, Standard Penetration Tests (SPT) and Dynamic Cone
• Penetrometer (DCP) tests.
• Document field conditions, take photographs, and prepare logs and sketches.
• Perform soil classification, moisture content, Atterberg limits, gradation and other laboratory testing as assigned.
• Conduct shrink/swell analysis of soils to determine their expansion potential.
• Analyze test results for engineering reports.
• Work closely with the Laboratory Manager to ensure project completion within schedule and budget along with client satisfaction.
• Maintain accurate records of test results and observations.
• Assist in preparing detailed geotechnical reports, maps, and technical drawings.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards such as ASTM, AASHTO, and local regulations.
• Work closely with the Shrink/Swell Manager to ensure project completion within schedule and budget along with client satisfaction.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Job Qualifications:

• Minimum High School Diploma.
• Prior experience in field and laboratory testing environment is preferred but not required.
• Familiarity with MS Office Suite
• Ability to read construction drawings
• Strong organizational ability and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Ability to work individually or in a team environment
• Valid driver's license

Work requirements :

• Job responsibilities split as 70% field work, 20% laboratory work and 10% reporting.
• Requires physical activity, including pushing, pulling or lifting up to 50 pounds, digging, standing, walking, climbing, crawling, bending, stooping, crouching, manipulating and working, sometimes in challenging terrain. The employee may sometimes be exposed to loud or noisy environments.
• May require occasional travel to offsite locations to perform work and work-related errands or to attend meetings.
• Requires good hand-eye coordination, arm, hand, and finger dexterity, including the ability to grasp, and visual acuity to use a keyboard, operate technical equipment, read technical information, and to analyze complex data.

Why KBJW?

KBJW employees receive competitive compensation as well as the following benefits:

• Comprehensive group medical insurance including health, dental, vision and life.
• Paid vacation and sick time
• Short and long-term disability coverage
• 401K retirement
• Opportunity for professional growth and advancement
• Tuition reimbursement
• Flexible work hours
• Profit-sharing and bonuses

KBJW is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status or any other characteristic covered by law.

Reasonable accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities as defined by the ADA.