Project Assistant Jobs in Tonica, IL (NOW HIRING)

Working at KE

Along with building state-of-the-art projects, we build meaningful careers, lasting opportunities, and teams of dedicated individuals who truly own their work. As a leading turnkey specialty contractor specializing in Automation, Electric, Energy, and Power Services, our team tackles challenging, cutting-edge projects that provide opportunities to build new skills, confidence, and gain valuable hands-on experience in a variety of different industries. We tackle industrial electrical installations, advanced automation systems, and renewable energy solutions.

Since our founding as a family-owned company in 1988, we've grown while staying true to our core values. Starting your career with KE means joining a culture that values your contributions, moves quickly, takes calculated risks, and celebrates team members who step up and own their work.

If you're ready to join a team where your voice matters, your growth is supported, and your impact is celebrated, KE is the place for you.

Purpose: 

The Concrete Finisher is responsible for placing, finishing, repairing, and curing concrete used in the construction of utility-scale ground mount solar energy projects. This role supports civil and structural construction activities, including foundations, equipment pads, inverter pads, transformer pads, collection system structures, and other concrete installations. The Concrete Finisher works closely with civil crews, equipment operators, and supervision to ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with project specifications and quality standards. 

What you'll do: 

• Place, spread, level, and finish concrete for solar project infrastructure. 
• Construct and strip concrete forms for pads and foundations. 
• Read and interpret construction drawings, grade plans, and project specifications. 
• Set anchor bolts, embeds, and templates according to project requirements. 
• Monitor concrete curing and protection processes. 
• Assist with layout and grade verification using string lines, lasers, and site benchmarks. 
• Inspect finished concrete surfaces and perform repairs or corrections as needed. 
• Operate hand and power tools, including concrete saws, vibrators, grinders, and finishing equipment. 
• Maintain a clean and organized work area. 
• Coordinate with quality control personnel to ensure compliance with project standards. 
• Support other construction activities as required. 
• Follow all company, client, OSHA, and site-specific safety regulations. 
• Participate in daily job hazard analyses (JHAs), toolbox talks, and safety meetings. 
• Identify and report unsafe conditions, incidents, and near misses. 
• Maintain awareness of heavy equipment operations, excavation activities, and energized work zones. 

What you'll bring: 

• The requirements listed in job descriptions are guidelines, not fixed rules. You do not have to satisfy every requirement or meet every qualification listed. If you feel you are an excellent candidate, we encourage you to apply!
• 2+ years of concrete finishing experience in commercial, industrial, energy, or heavy civil construction. 
• Knowledge of concrete placement, finishing techniques, and curing methods. 
• Ability to read construction drawings and perform basic measurements. 
• Experience working outdoors in varying weather conditions. 
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds regularly. 
• Ability to stand, kneel, bend, squat, and work on uneven terrain for extended periods. 
• Reliable transportation and willingness to travel to project sites. 
• Experience on utility-scale solar, renewable energy, power generation, or EPC projects. 
• Knowledge of grade control and concrete layout procedures. 
• Experience operating skid steers, telehandlers, or other construction equipment. 

Total Rewards Statement

As a full-time employee at KE, you'll have access to a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, wellbeing, and future.

• 100% employer-paid health and dental coverage for employees
• HSA contributions to support your medical expenses
• Company-paid life insurance and disability coverage
• 401(k) with competitive company match
• Performance-based incentives
• Paid weekly with competitive wages
• PTO, six paid holidays, and education reimbursement
• Exclusive employee discounts through Working Advantage

The salary range for this position is $20.00 - $30.00 per hour, which reflects a good-faith estimate based on market data and internal equity.  

We believe your work should be rewarded with more than just a paycheck. At KE, we invest in your total wellbeing.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to sit, stand, kneel, stoop, walk, and sit for long periods of time
• Must be capable of working in inclement conditions to include extreme hot and cold temperatures.
• Must be physically capable of manually digging & back-filling holes and trenches.
• Must be physically capable of lifting and carrying up to 80 lbs.

Accessibility: If you need accommodations as part of the employment process, please contact Knobelsdorff Human Resources via email at [email protected].

Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO)

Knobelsdorff (KE) is an EEO to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, citizenship, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws:

• EEO is the Law (English/Spanish)

KE participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States. For more information about E-Verify, please review the E-Verify Participation and Right to Work posters.

If you need accommodation during the hiring process, let us know and we'll work with you.