📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Junior Field Technician
Company: GHD
Location: Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Job Type: On-site
Category: Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Construction
Date Posted: June 24, 2025
Experience Level: Entry-level (0-2 years)
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

Join GHD's Materials Technology Team as a Junior Field Technician in Ottawa, working under the supervision of civil and geotechnical engineering professionals.
Contribute to integrated geotechnical, construction materials, and environmental engineering services for transportation, infrastructure, and industrial projects.
Gain hands-on experience in field and laboratory testing, site inspections, and technical assistance.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers an excellent opportunity for recent graduates or early-career professionals to develop their skills in a supportive team environment, working on diverse and impactful projects.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

Field Testing & Support: Conduct field testing of various materials on construction sites, including in-situ density testing and concrete/asphalt material testing. Assist in field work operations for geotechnical and materials investigations, such as layout, operating specialized equipment, supervising subcontractors, and logging boreholes/test pits.
Site Reconnaissance & Inspections: Perform construction site reconnaissance, inspections, and observations to ensure project quality and compliance with standards.
Laboratory Testing: Carry out laboratory tests on soils, aggregates, concrete, and other construction materials to various industry standards.
Technical Assistance & Support: Provide technical assistance to other team members in field, laboratory, and office activities as required.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires strong attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work effectively in both field and laboratory environments.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: College diploma in Geotechnical, Civil Engineering, Civil Engineering Technology, or Construction.

Experience: 1 to 2 years of relevant experience.

Required Skills:

Excellent time management skills
Strong communication skills (both oral and written)
Strong organizational and interpersonal skills
Team player, willing to work nights when required
Ability to meet challenging deadlines
G Driver’s license and reliable automobile

Preferred Skills:

CCIL certification or ACI level 1 and 2 certification for concrete testing
Familiarity with specialized field equipment and software

📝 Enhancement Note: While relevant experience is preferred, GHD is open to considering recent graduates with strong academic records and a passion for learning.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Detailed project reports demonstrating field and laboratory testing results, site observations, and data analysis.
High-quality photographs and sketches of construction sites, test pits, and equipment in use.
Clear and concise written communication, highlighting technical findings and recommendations.

Technical Documentation:

Detailed test procedures and methodologies, following industry standards and best practices.
Accurate and well-organized data records, including test results, site conditions, and material properties.
Clear and concise technical reports, summarizing findings and making data-driven recommendations.

📝 Enhancement Note: As a Junior Field Technician, your portfolio should showcase your technical skills, attention to detail, and ability to communicate complex information clearly and effectively.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $45,000 - $55,000 CAD per year (based on experience and qualifications)

Benefits:

Competitive salary and benefits package
Opportunities for professional development and growth
A dynamic and inclusive work environment
The chance to work on diverse and impactful projects across various industries

Working Hours: Full-time (40 hours/week), with potential for overtime and night shifts as required by project needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: GHD offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans, as well as opportunities for professional development and growth.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: GHD operates in the engineering, architecture, and environmental consulting industry, with a strong focus on transportation, infrastructure, and industrial projects.

Company Size: GHD is a large, global organization with over 10,000 employees across five continents. The Ottawa office is one of many locations in Canada, providing a supportive and collaborative work environment.

Founded: GHD was founded in 1928 and has since grown into one of the world's leading professional services companies.

Team Structure:

The Ottawa office consists of various teams, including Materials Technology, Geotechnical Engineering, Environmental Services, and more.
The Materials Technology team works closely with other teams to provide integrated services and support project delivery.
The team structure is hierarchical, with senior engineers providing guidance and mentorship to junior team members.

Development Methodology:

GHD follows a structured project management approach, with clear processes for project delivery, quality assurance, and risk management.
The company encourages continuous learning and professional development, with regular training opportunities and performance reviews.

Company Website: https://www.ghd.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: GHD's company culture emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and sustainability, providing an excellent environment for junior professionals to grow and develop their skills.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Web Technology Career Level: This role is an entry-level position, offering an excellent opportunity for recent graduates or early-career professionals to gain hands-on experience in geotechnical engineering and construction materials testing.

Reporting Structure: The Junior Field Technician reports directly to senior engineers within the Materials Technology team. The team structure is hierarchical, with opportunities for growth and advancement as skills and experience develop.

Technical Impact: The Junior Field Technician plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality and integrity of construction materials and projects. Their work directly impacts the safety, durability, and performance of infrastructure and industrial facilities.

Growth Opportunities:

Technical Development: Gain experience in various aspects of geotechnical engineering and construction materials testing, leading to certification and specialization opportunities.
Leadership & Mentoring: As skills and experience develop, opportunities may arise to mentor junior team members and take on leadership roles in projects or teams.
Career Progression: With experience and demonstrated proficiency, opportunities may exist to progress to senior roles, such as Senior Field Technician, Project Engineer, or Engineering Manager.

📝 Enhancement Note: GHD offers a clear career progression path, with opportunities for growth and development in both technical and leadership capacities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: GHD's Ottawa office is a modern, collaborative workspace designed to facilitate teamwork and knowledge-sharing.

Office Location(s): The Ottawa office is located in the city's downtown core, providing easy access to public transportation and amenities.

Workspace Context:

The office features open-plan workspaces, with dedicated areas for team meetings, training, and quiet work.
Field technicians have access to specialized equipment, software, and resources to perform their duties effectively.
The work environment encourages collaboration, with regular team meetings, workshops, and social events.

Work Schedule: The work schedule is typically Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with potential for overtime and night shifts as required by project needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: GHD's work environment is designed to support collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning, providing an excellent setting for junior professionals to grow and develop their skills.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Resume Screening: GHD will review your resume and cover letter to assess your qualifications and experience.
Phone/Video Screen: A brief phone or video call to discuss your application, experience, and career goals.
Technical Interview: A more in-depth discussion of your technical skills, experience, and understanding of geotechnical engineering and construction materials testing.
Final Interview: A meeting with the hiring manager or team lead to discuss your fit within the team and company culture.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Highlight your relevant experience and projects, demonstrating your technical skills and attention to detail.
Include clear and concise written communication, summarizing your findings and recommendations.
Showcase your ability to work effectively in both field and laboratory environments.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

Brush up on your knowledge of geotechnical engineering principles, construction materials, and industry standards.
Familiarize yourself with GHD's company culture, values, and mission.
Prepare questions to ask the interviewer about the role, team, and company to demonstrate your interest and engagement.

ATS Keywords: (Organized by category)

Geotechnical Engineering: Geotechnical Engineering, Soil Mechanics, Foundation Engineering, Site Investigation, Slope Stability, Retaining Walls, Pavement Design, etc.
Construction Materials: Concrete, Asphalt, Aggregates, Soils, Cement, Fly Ash, etc.
Testing & Inspection: Field Testing, Laboratory Testing, Site Inspection, Quality Control, Quality Assurance, etc.
Software & Equipment: Nuclear Densometer, Soil Testing Equipment, Concrete Testing Equipment, etc.
Industry Standards: ASTM, ACI, CCIL, CSA, etc.
Soft Skills: Communication, Teamwork, Organization, Time Management, Problem-Solving, etc.

📝 Enhancement Note: GHD's interview process is designed to assess your technical skills, experience, and cultural fit within the team. Prepare thoroughly and be ready to discuss your portfolio, experience, and career goals in detail.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Field Equipment:

Nuclear Densometer Gauge
Soil Testing Equipment (e.g., Triaxial Testing Machine, Direct Shear Apparatus)
Concrete Testing Equipment (e.g., Compression Testing Machine, Flexural Strength Tester)
Specialized Surveying Equipment (e.g., Total Station, GPS Receiver)

Laboratory Software:

Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)
Data Analysis Software (e.g., Microsoft Excel, R, MATLAB)
Technical Drawing Software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit)

Company Infrastructure:

GHD's global network of offices and resources
Collaborative work environment, with access to specialized equipment, software, and expertise
Opportunities for professional development and growth through training, workshops, and mentorship programs

📝 Enhancement Note: GHD provides its employees with access to cutting-edge technology, specialized equipment, and a supportive work environment to facilitate their growth and success.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Web Development Values:

Quality & Precision: GHD emphasizes the importance of accurate and precise testing, data collection, and reporting to ensure the quality and integrity of construction materials and projects.
Collaboration & Teamwork: GHD fosters a collaborative work environment, encouraging team members to work together, share knowledge, and support one another's growth and development.
Continuous Learning & Improvement: GHD encourages its employees to stay up-to-date with industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies, and to continuously seek opportunities for professional development and growth.
Safety & Sustainability: GHD is committed to ensuring the safety of its employees and the sustainability of its operations, with a strong focus on environmental stewardship and responsible business practices.

Collaboration Style:

Cross-Functional Integration: The Materials Technology team works closely with other teams, including Geotechnical Engineering, Environmental Services, and Project Management, to provide integrated services and support project delivery.
Knowledge Sharing: GHD encourages its employees to share their knowledge and expertise with one another, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
Mentorship & Guidance: Senior team members provide guidance and mentorship to junior team members, helping them develop their skills and advance their careers.

📝 Enhancement Note: GHD's team culture is built on collaboration, continuous learning, and a commitment to quality, safety, and sustainability, providing an excellent environment for junior professionals to grow and develop their skills.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

Field Testing: Conducting field testing in challenging environments, such as remote locations, extreme weather conditions, or tight deadlines.
Laboratory Testing: Performing complex laboratory tests, requiring a strong understanding of materials science, physics, and chemistry.
Data Analysis: Interpreting and analyzing complex data sets to draw accurate and meaningful conclusions.
Report Writing: Preparing clear, concise, and well-structured technical reports, summarizing findings and making data-driven recommendations.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Certification Programs: Pursuing relevant certifications, such as CCIL or ACI, to enhance your knowledge and skills in construction materials testing.
Workshops & Training: Participating in workshops, seminars, and webinars to stay up-to-date with industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies.
Mentorship & Coaching: Seeking guidance and support from senior team members to develop your skills, advance your career, and achieve your professional goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: GHD offers numerous opportunities for technical and professional growth, with a strong focus on continuous learning, knowledge-sharing, and mentorship.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

Geotechnical Engineering: Can you explain the principles of soil mechanics, foundation engineering, or slope stability? How have you applied these principles in your previous experience?
Construction Materials: How do you ensure the quality and integrity of construction materials, such as concrete, asphalt, or aggregates? What testing methods and standards do you use?
Data Analysis: Can you walk us through your approach to analyzing complex data sets, drawing accurate conclusions, and making data-driven recommendations?

Company & Culture Questions:

GHD's Mission & Values: How do GHD's mission and values resonate with your personal and professional goals? How do you see yourself contributing to our success?
Team Dynamics: How do you work effectively in a team environment, supporting the growth and development of your colleagues? Can you provide an example from your previous experience?
Adaptability: How do you adapt to new situations, challenges, or priorities? Can you give us an example of a time when you had to pivot quickly or think on your feet?

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Storytelling: Use your portfolio to tell a story about your technical skills, experience, and growth as a professional. Highlight your accomplishments, challenges, and lessons learned.
Data Visualization: Use charts, graphs, and other visual aids to communicate complex data and findings effectively.
Engagement: Engage the interviewer in a conversation about your portfolio, asking questions and seeking their input and feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: GHD's interview process is designed to assess your technical skills, experience, and cultural fit within the team. Prepare thoroughly and be ready to discuss your portfolio, experience, and career goals in detail.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Junior Field Technician position:

Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight your relevant experience, skills, and qualifications for this role.
Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a portfolio of your best work, demonstrating your technical skills, attention to detail, and ability to communicate complex information clearly and effectively.
Research GHD: Familiarize yourself with GHD's company culture, values, and mission. Understand the role and team dynamics to ensure a strong fit with your career goals and aspirations.
Practice Your Interview Skills: Prepare for the interview process by practicing common interview questions, brushing up on your technical knowledge, and seeking feedback from mentors or career coaches.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with GHD before making application decisions.

Junior Field Technician