Construction Materials Technician

Construction Materials Technician

This role involves performing field and laboratory testing of construction materials, documenting results accurately, and collaborating closely with project teams to ensure that construction activities meet project specifications and quality standards. The construction materials technician communicates effectively with project personnel, other materials technicians, clients, and contractor representatives regarding construction activities, project requirements, testing, observation, and inspection needs and results. The technician transports material samples to the laboratory for further testing and analysis and prepares and submits electronic daily test and observation reports. This position offers in-depth technical training, industry certifications based on experience and skill level, and significant opportunities for career advancement within a fast-paced and highly successful team. Candidates should be comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions and be able to lift 50 to 75 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine to complex sampling and testing of soils, aggregates, concrete, masonry, and asphalt in the field and laboratory.
• Conduct concrete, soil, asphalt, and other construction materials testing in accordance with project specifications and applicable standards.
• Provide clear, accurate documentation of field activities and test results entered daily in electronic format.
• Transport material samples from job sites to the laboratory for further testing and analysis.
• Communicate effectively with project personnel, materials technicians, clients, and contractor representatives regarding construction activities, testing requirements, observations, inspections, and results.
• Work with the project team and lead technicians to ensure that all project specifications and quality assurance requirements are followed.
• Assist with training and mentoring junior staff as needed to support their technical development.
• Maintain a strong safety focus by following safety procedures and using proper techniques during sampling, testing, and field activities.
• Read and interpret construction plans and specifications to ensure proper testing and inspection coverage.
• Support a steady backlog of projects by managing assigned tasks efficiently and meeting project deadlines.

Essential Skills

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least 2 years of construction materials testing experience.
• Experience with construction materials testing, including concrete testing, concrete inspection, soil testing, asphalt testing, and general construction materials testing.
• ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician Certification.
• Excellent plan reading skills to interpret drawings and specifications.
• Demonstrated technical aptitude for performing and understanding materials testing procedures.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to interact with project teams, clients, and contractors and to prepare clear documentation.
• Strong safety focus and attention to detail in all field and laboratory activities.
• Valid driver's license and good driving history.
• Ability to lift 50 to 75 pounds and work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Flexibility to work extended or nontraditional hours as needed.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• MnDOT certifications are a plus.
• ICC certifications are a plus.
• Experience with quality assurance processes in construction materials testing.
• Ability to mentor and support junior staff.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced environment with a steady and growing backlog of projects.
• Willingness to pursue additional technical training and industry certifications provided by the employer.

Work Environment

The construction materials technician works primarily in the field at active construction sites and in a laboratory setting. The role requires frequent outdoor work in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, and inclement weather. The position involves physical activity, including lifting 50 to 75 pounds, handling material samples, and moving testing equipment. The work schedule may include extended or nontraditional hours based on project needs. The environment is fast paced, with a steady and growing backlog of projects, offering ongoing exposure to a variety of soils, aggregates, concrete, masonry, and asphalt testing assignments. The technician uses electronic systems to enter daily test and observation reports and works with standard construction materials testing equipment in both field and laboratory settings. The culture emphasizes safety, technical excellence, continuous training, and collaboration within a supportive project team.