Construction Material Testing Laboratory Technician I

Physical Demands & Work Environment: Work is sometimes conducted in a laboratory setting, but may also involve fieldwork and exposure to outdoor conditions, including: Sites that may not be accessible by vehicle, requiring travel on foot through wetlands, swamps, grasslands, construction zones, and other uneven or rugged terrain with natural and man-made obstacles such as sand, brush, and debris. Your day will involve preparing and labeling samples, testing materials such as soil, concrete, asphalt, and aggregates, operating laboratory equipment, and recording results.

Who We Are:

At UES, we’re a team of more than 4,000 engineers, scientists, geologists, inspectors, technicians, and drillers united by a shared purpose—to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. As a national leader in geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, and materials testing and inspection, we collaborate on transformative projects across transportation, energy, water, healthcare, and more. Learn more about the benefits of joining Team UES and our core values at careers.teamues.com.

Position Overview:

UES is hiring a Construction Material Testing Laboratory Technician I in Douglasville, GA.  This is a hands-on opportunity to learn how construction materials are tested and help produce reliable results that engineers and project teams use to evaluate quality.

What you will actually do

Your day will involve preparing and labeling samples, testing materials such as soil, concrete, asphalt, and aggregates, operating laboratory equipment, and recording results. You will follow established testing procedures, keep samples organized, and help maintain a clean, safe laboratory.

Accuracy matters at every step. Correct sample identification, careful measurements, and complete records help the team connect each result to the right project. You will also communicate sample status, testing progress, and equipment concerns to laboratory supervisors, engineers, and field personnel.

Required and preferred qualifications

A high school diploma or equivalent is required. You need basic computer skills, practical math skills, and the ability to read and follow written instructions. A valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record is also listed among the qualifications.

Previous laboratory experience is preferred but is not required in the available posting for this role. An associate degree or technical coursework in engineering, geology, construction science, or a related subject is helpful. Familiarity with Microsoft Office and testing-data software is also preferred.

What success looks like

A practical focus during your first few months would be learning sample handling, equipment operation, testing procedures, and safety requirements. Success means following instructions consistently, recording accurate results, meeting testing deadlines, and asking questions before proceeding when something is unclear.

Where and how you will work

This work requires your physical presence in the laboratory and may include occasional field assignments. Expect extended periods of standing, repetitive sample handling, bending, and moving materials. The available posting lists lifting and carrying materials weighing 35–75 pounds.

Laboratory and field conditions may include noise, dust, chemicals, and outdoor weather. Following safety procedures and wearing the required personal protective equipment are essential. Confirm the specific schedule, overtime expectations, and travel requirements with Recruiting.

Your team and career development

You will work alongside laboratory personnel and coordinate with engineers, field technicians, and project managers. The reporting relationship and any supervisory responsibilities can be explained during the interview.

This role can help you build practical skills in materials testing, equipment operation, documentation, and quality control. Ask about on-the-job training, mentorship, paid certification opportunities, and the requirements for advancement.

Why consider this opportunity?

If you enjoy practical work, learning technical skills, and seeing a clear purpose behind what you do, this position offers a way to build experience in the engineering and construction industry. Your testing helps project teams make informed decisions about the materials used in construction. UES offers industry-leading benefits.

The person who will succeed is dependable, organized, willing to learn, and attentive to detail. They take safety seriously, follow procedures carefully, communicate concerns, and take pride in getting the work right.

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Responsibilities:

• Perform routine laboratory testing on construction materials, including soil, concrete, and other construction materials following ASTM, AASHTO, and other applicable industry standards to ensure compliance with project specifications.
• Ensure that project testing requirements are met and compliant with project specifications, requirements, and company policies and procedures.
• Accurately document and report test results, maintaining detailed, organized, and error-free records.
• Assist with sample preparation, handling, and proper storage, ensuring sample integrity, traceability, and adherence to laboratory protocols.
• Operate laboratory testing equipment.
• Follow strict safety protocols and laboratory procedures, including proper handling of materials and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Communicate effectively with lab supervisors, engineers, and field personnel, providing timely updates on test results, sample status, and any technical issues.
• Perform additional duties as assigned, supporting the laboratory team, field technicians, and project managers as needed.

Job Responsibilities Note:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. UES retains the right to add to or change the duties of the position at any time.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree or technical coursework in engineering, geology, construction science, or a related field preferred.
• 0-3 years of experience in construction materials testing, geotechnical laboratory work, or a related field (prior laboratory experience preferred but not required).
• Commitment to workplace safety, following OSHA, company, and laboratory safety protocols, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Basic computer proficiency, with experience in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and Field Data Collection (FDC) software preferred.
• Ability to read, write, and interpret procedures, manuals, technical documents, and reports related to construction materials testing and laboratory protocols.
• Mathematical skills sufficient to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to collaborate with colleagues, supervisors, field personnel, and clients to carry out instructions and report findings.
• Strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
• Detail-oriented and quality-focused, ensuring accuracy in sample preparation, testing procedures, and data documentation.
• Ability to work independently within the limitations of experience, using initiative to solve routine lab challenges.
• Ability to stand for extended periods of time and perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting and moving materials or equipment.
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record; ability to travel to job sites as needed.

Travel Requirements:

This position does not require regular travel as part of its primary responsibilities. However, occasional
travel may be required, up to 10%, primarily for occasional off-site meetings, training sessions, or
company events. Travel, when necessary, will be communicated in advance and aligned with business
needs.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

Work is sometimes conducted in a laboratory setting, but may also involve fieldwork and exposure to outdoor conditions, including:

• Sites that may not be accessible by vehicle, requiring travel on foot through wetlands, swamps, grasslands, construction zones, and other uneven or rugged terrain with natural and man-made obstacles such as sand, brush, and debris.
• Moderate to loud noise levels due to lab equipment, field operations, and construction environments.
• Exposure to dirt, dust, chemicals, sun, heat, humidity, and varying weather conditions as part of field sample collection and testing.

   

  Physical requirements include:

• Ability to lift and carry between 35 and 75 lbs. over distances up to 75 feet, involving regular repetitive motion.
• Ability to stand, walk, drive, and operate laboratory and field equipment for extended periods.
• Frequent use of hands and arms for typing, handling samples, operating lab instruments, and performing testing procedures.
• Ability to bend, twist, reach, stoop, pull, kneel, climb, balance, lift, carry, and push as required for laboratory and fieldwork.
• Ability to communicate effectively through verbal and written means in a lab and field environment, often requiring the use of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment).
• Ability to use your senses to see (including close, distant, and peripheral vison, depth vision, and ability to focus) and smell.

EEO Statement:

UES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is proud to recruit the most qualified candidates. Please see our full EEO Statement at the bottom of the page here