Construction Materials Testing Technicians | Levels I–IV

Universal Engineering Sciences • St. Louis, MO

21d • Onsite

About The Position

Universal Engineering Sciences (UES) is hiring Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Technicians at Levels I–IV. Opportunities are available for entry-level candidates and experienced professionals, with level placement and compensation based on qualifications, certifications, experience, and branch requirements. Technicians work at active construction sites on projects such as roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, commercial developments, and other infrastructure. The role provides hands-on work, training and certification opportunities, and potential career growth into advanced technical, supervisory, or project management positions.

Depending on experience and certifications, technicians perform field testing and inspections of concrete, soils, asphalt, aggregates, and other construction materials; observe construction activities; document and communicate results; and support quality assurance and quality control. The position involves working outdoors in changing weather and on active sites, operating specialized equipment, traveling between job sites, and collaborating with contractors, engineers, project managers, and construction teams. Extensive travel, up to approximately 70% of the time, is required.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required.
• At least 3 years of relevant field experience in construction materials testing or a related discipline, as stated in the qualifications section.
• Valid driver's license and acceptable or clean driving record.
• Ability to read and interpret construction plans, documents, and technical specifications.
• Ability to perform general civil engineering calculations and accurately complete field-testing paperwork and detailed figures.
• Knowledge of construction materials testing methods, ASTM standards, and soil classifications.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present information and respond to questions from managers, clients, customers, and the public.
• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word and Excel.
• Strong attention to detail, ability to follow safety procedures, and ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and on active construction sites, and to travel between job sites.
• Ability to work flexible hours based on project needs.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs, as specified in the qualifications section; physical demands also include regularly lifting or moving up to 40 lbs, frequently up to 60 lbs, and occasionally moving more than 100 lbs.
• Ability to stand and walk for long periods, drive long distances, and perform repetitive bending, twisting, reaching, stooping, pulling, kneeling, lifting, carrying, and pushing.

Nice To Haves

• Associate’s degree or relevant technical training.
• ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician certification.
• Nuclear Density Gauge certification or authorization.
• ICC Special Inspector certifications.
• NICET certifications.
• State DOT testing certifications.
• Experience with construction materials testing, concrete testing and inspections, soil compaction and density testing, asphalt testing and inspections, or geotechnical field testing.
• Multiple relevant industry certifications and experience with complex projects, specialized testing, technical troubleshooting, or field leadership, depending on level.

Responsibilities

• Perform field testing and inspections of concrete, soils, asphalt, aggregates, and other construction materials, including soil compaction, concrete slump, air content, temperature, and cylinder sampling.
• Conduct density testing using nuclear gauges or sand cone methods.
• Observe construction activities and document field work in accordance with project specifications and applicable standards, including ASTM and AASHTO.
• Collect samples for laboratory testing and deliver them to the laboratory using proper chain-of-custody protocols.
• Prepare clear, accurate daily field reports and submit documentation in a timely manner.
• Communicate field findings and potential issues to project managers, engineers, and contractors.
• Operate, calibrate, maintain, and use specialized field-testing equipment in accordance with quality control standards.
• Support quality assurance and quality control activities.
• Comply with safety regulations and maintain a safe work environment on-site and in the laboratory, including using required PPE.
• Maintain and inspect vehicles and follow vehicle safety policies and procedures.
• Assist with complex inspections and provide technical guidance or mentorship to less experienced technicians as experience allows.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Training and certification support or opportunities, depending on position and location.
• Opportunities for continued professional development and career growth.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED