Laboratory Engineer

Laboratory Engineer

Geotechnical & Construction Materials Engineering Laboratory

Position Summary

The Laboratory Engineer serves as an intermediate-level technical professional bridging the gap between Laboratory Technicians and Laboratory Management. This role combines advanced testing responsibilities, technical review, laboratory coordination, quality system support, accreditation activities, and technician development across both Geotechnical and Construction Materials Engineering (CME) laboratory operations.

The Laboratory Engineer is responsible for performing advanced laboratory testing, reviewing calculations and test results, supporting quality initiatives, assisting with technician training, and helping maintain laboratory accreditation requirements. This position serves as a senior technical resource within the laboratory and provides a developmental path toward future leadership opportunities.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Laboratory Testing & Technical Review

• Perform routine and advanced laboratory testing in accordance with ASTM, AASHTO, TxDOT, and other applicable industry standards.

• Conduct and evaluate laboratory testing of:

• Soils

• Aggregate Materials

• Concrete

• Asphalt

• Rock Materials

• Other accredited laboratory services

• Perform technical calculations, data reduction, and review of test results.

• Verify the accuracy, completeness, and validity of testing data before final reporting.

• Assist engineers and project managers with interpretation of laboratory findings and test data.

• Identify testing discrepancies, anomalies, or nonconformances and coordinate corrective actions.

• Support the expansion of laboratory testing services, including rock testing capabilities.

Quality Systems & Accreditation Support

• Assist the Quality Manager in maintaining accreditation requirements and compliance standards.
• Support laboratory calibration and preventive maintenance programs.
• Maintain training records, quality documentation, competency records, and testing logs.
• Participate in proficiency sample programs, corrective actions, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Assist with internal and external audits, accreditation assessments, and client audits.
• Support implementation and maintenance of quality assurance and quality control procedures.

Laboratory Operations & Technical Leadership

• Provide technical guidance and mentoring to laboratory technicians.
• Assist with technician training, onboarding, and cross-training programs.
• Help coordinate laboratory workflow, testing priorities, and resource allocation.
• Review laboratory reports, calculations, and supporting documentation for completeness.
• Support laboratory management in maintaining efficient daily operations.
• Promote safe work practices and compliance with company policies and procedures.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Geological Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Construction Engineering, or a related field.
• Working knowledge of ASTM, AASHTO, and TxDOT laboratory testing standards.
• Ability to perform technical calculations and evaluate laboratory test results.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a laboratory environment.
• Commitment to laboratory quality systems, safety, and accreditation compliance.

First-Year Professional Development Requirements

The Laboratory Engineer is expected to obtain the following certifications within one year of employment:

• SB101
• SB201
• SB202
• AGG101
• Asphalt Level 1A
• Asphalt Level 2
• ACI Strength Testing Technician

Additionally, the employee will be expected to:

• Become proficient in all accredited Geotechnical laboratory testing procedures.
• Become proficient in all accredited Construction Materials Engineering laboratory procedures.
• Develop a strong understanding of testing theory, calculations, limitations, and interpretation of results.
• Gain competency in quality system administration and accreditation requirements.
• Assist with implementation of expanded rock testing services and capabilities.