Laboratory Supervisor

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.

This position is based in our Houston East office and combines approximately 75% people management with 25% hands-on laboratory work. We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Laboratory Supervisor with strong initiative and drive, someone who can actively lead, keep the team engaged, and support day-to-day laboratory operations. The role involves managing daily operations and staff within our Construction Materials Testing (CMT) and Geotechnical laboratory, including testing of concrete, asphalt, soils, aggregates, rock, and masonry. The Laboratory Supervisor is also responsible for coordinating, organizing, and tracking project samples to ensure all testing is completed accurately, efficiently, and in compliance with established procedures.

Location: 4667 Kennedy Commerce Drive Houston, Texas, 77032

• Supervise day-to-day laboratory operations and testing activities related to either soils or asphalt.
• Lead and coordinate a team of technicians to ensure high-quality testing and accurate results.
• Monitor testing workloads, schedule staff assignments, and verify resource availability (equipment, supplies, personnel).
• Train laboratory technicians in sampling, testing procedures, chemical handling, and safety protocols.
• Oversee documentation, data entry, and quality control procedures to ensure test accuracy and timely reporting.
• Ensure laboratory compliance with AASHTO, ADOT, ASTM, ACI, and other relevant standards.
• Collaborate with the Laboratory Manager and Department Manager on maintaining accreditation and laboratory certifications.
• Support equipment calibration, maintenance, and safe operation; report issues proactively.
• Serve as liaison between technicians, management, and clients to resolve testing-related questions and project issues.
• Assist in budget preparation, purchasing, and strategic planning when Laboratory Manager is absent.
• Complete all documentation and reports accurately and in a timely manner.
• Support a culture of safety, compliance, and operational excellence across all lab activities.

• Associate degree or completion of three years of college coursework in civil engineering, materials engineering, construction management, or a related field; bachelor’s degree preferred.
• OR 5+ years of progressive experience in construction materials laboratory testing.
• ACI Certification in Concrete Strength Testing required; Field Grade I a plus.
• ATTI Certification in either Soils/Aggregate or Asphalt Testing required; both preferred.
• Proficient in ASTM, AASHTO, ADOT, and ACI standards, procedures, and testing requirements.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) and lab data systems (e.g., gINT).
• Strong knowledge of laboratory safety, chemical handling, and quality assurance procedures.
• Ability to read and interpret technical documents, blueprints, and engineering specifications.
• Strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills.

• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to work in dusty, noisy environments and lift or move materials as required for testing.
• Must be physically able to perform sampling and testing procedures.

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.

• Work is primarily conducted in a laboratory environment, with occasional exposure to adjacent operational or industrial areas. Conditions may include:
  • Prolonged exposure to moderate to loud noise levels from lab equipment, ventilation systems, and instrumentation.
  • Routine handling of chemicals, and other lab materials, requiring strict adherence to safety protocols.
  • Regular use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as lab coats, gloves, safety goggles, and respiratory protection as needed.
  • Potential exposure to fumes, chemical odors, dust, and temperature fluctuations depending on lab ventilation and activities.
• Physical requirements include:
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. of lab equipment, containers, or samples as needed.
  • Ability to stand or walk for extended periods while performing experiments or lab procedures.
  • Frequent use of hands and arms for instrument calibration, typing, labeling, and material handling.
  • Ability to bend, twist, reach, stoop, kneel, or crouch to access equipment, supplies, or perform tasks at various heights.
  • Ability to communicate clearly in verbal and written form while working in a laboratory team environment.
  • Visual acuity to perform detailed work, including close vision, color differentiation, and the ability to detect fine measurements or anomalies.

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