Construction Materials Co-op Student

About the Role

The Construction Materials Co‑op Student role offers hands‑on challenges in construction materials engineering. From day one you will support real projects, working both in the field and the laboratory to evaluate the materials that shape our roads, bridges and communities. Throughout the term you will develop on‑site skills, improve professional communication with engineers, contractors and crews, and deepen your understanding of safety hazards and how to mitigate them. You will also learn foundational principles of hot‑mix asphalt, recycled asphalt, soil and concrete, and strengthen technical writing through structured reporting. • Perform routine field and laboratory testing on soils, aggregates, concrete, and asphalt following established procedures and standards. • Collect field samples, ensuring accurate labeling, handling, and chain of custody. • Conduct material tests to assess engineering properties and verify compliance with project specifications. • Support supervisors in monitoring material placement, compaction, and quality control on construction sites. • Record, organize, and report test results with high accuracy and attention to detail. • Communicate daily findings and observations to engineers, contractors, and construction crews for timely issue resolution. • Apply a strong safety mindset, participating in orientations, toolbox talks, and on‑the‑job training. • Contribute to problem solving on engineering challenges related to construction methods, material selection, mix proportions, and mix design. • Build professional communication abilities with engineers, clients, contractors, and traffic control personnel. • Interpret test results from laboratory and field conditions to inform project decisions. • Strengthen technical writing through clear, structured reporting and support provincial experience record requirements. • Developing technical writing and data reporting skills with a focus on accurate documentation.

Key Responsibilities

• ▸field testing
• ▸lab testing
• ▸sample collection
• ▸quality control
• ▸data reporting
• ▸technical writing

What You Bring

You will gain practical experience testing soils, asphalt and concrete, learning directly from seasoned technicians, engineers and field supervisors. The role builds strong technical skills, confidence on construction sites, and a clear view of how your work contributes to safe, high‑quality infrastructure. We are looking for students enrolled in an engineering program (civil, geological, environmental, materials or related) who are curious about construction materials, analytical, organized and eager to work outdoors while following safety procedures. Prior exposure to construction sites or material testing is an asset, but comprehensive on‑the‑job training will be provided. • Develop on‑site skills and confidence working in active construction environments. • Learn foundational principles of hot‑mix asphalt, recycled asphalt, soil, and concrete. • Currently enrolled in a university engineering program (civil, geological, environmental, materials, or related) and eligible for a co‑op or internship term. • Curious about construction materials engineering and eager to grow skills in field and laboratory testing. • Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and data‑interpretation abilities. • Highly organized with effective time‑management and the ability to prioritize in a fast‑paced environment. • Willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and commitment to safety procedures and PPE. • Previous exposure to construction sites, asphalt pavement, concrete, or soil mechanics is an asset.

Requirements

• ▸engineering student
• ▸problem solving
• ▸organized
• ▸safety
• ▸site experience
• ▸material testing

Benefits

WSP offers a purpose‑driven environment where the brightest engineers, advisors and scientists collaborate to shape communities. Proudly Canadian, we are a Top 100 Employer in Canada for 2026, with a global network that provides limitless opportunities and flexible work to support your personal balance. Compensation ranges from $21.50 to $32.25 per hour depending on province, with final salary reflecting education, experience and other factors. Safety is a core value; all employees must adhere to WSP’s Health, Safety & Environment policy and client HSE requirements. • Competitive hourly wage ranging from $21.50 to $32.25 depending on province. • Flexible work arrangements that promote work‑life balance. • Opportunity to join a Top 100 Canadian employer with global reach and limitless career growth. • Inclusive, safety‑focused workplace that values employment equity and provides accommodations for candidates with disabilities.

Work Environment

Field