Construction Materials Testing Technicians | Levels I–IV

Universal Engineering Sciences • Chantilly, VA

18d • Onsite

About The Position

Universal Engineering Sciences (UES) is hiring Construction Materials Testing (CMT) Technicians at Technician I through Technician IV levels. The position offers opportunities for people new to CMT as well as experienced, certified technicians; placement and compensation depend on qualifications, certifications, experience, and branch requirements. Technicians work on active construction sites supporting projects such as roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, commercial developments, and other infrastructure. Work includes field testing and inspection of construction materials, documenting results, supporting quality assurance and quality control, and coordinating with contractors, engineers, project managers, and construction teams. Training and certification opportunities may be available depending on the position and location. The role requires extensive travel, approximately up to 70% of the time, and work outdoors in varying weather and operational environments. The posted salary range is USD $20.00–$30.00 per hour.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED; the posting also lists an associate degree or relevant technical training as preferred.
• A valid driver's license and acceptable or clean driving record.
• Three years of relevant field experience in construction materials testing or a related discipline are listed in the qualifications; the posting also describes level-specific experience guidelines ranging from 0–1 years for Technician I to 5+ years for Technician IV.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and on active construction sites, performing hands-on fieldwork.
• Strong attention to detail, reliability, and ability to follow safety procedures.
• Ability to communicate professionally, prepare accurate documentation, and complete field-testing paperwork with detailed figures.
• Ability to read and interpret construction plans, documents, and technical specifications.
• Ability to perform general civil engineering calculations.
• Knowledge of construction materials testing methods, ASTM standards, and soil classifications.
• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present information and respond to questions from managers, clients, customers, and the general public.
• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Ability to lift and carry materials and equipment; the qualifications mention lifting up to 50 lbs, while the physical demands section describes frequent lifting up to 60 lbs and occasional movement of loads over 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.
• Ability to work flexible hours based on project needs.
• Ability to travel extensively, approximately up to 70% of the time, sometimes on short notice.
• For Technician III, multiple relevant industry certifications are required; certifications may include ACI, ICC, NICET, or DOT-related credentials. Technician IV calls for advanced certifications and leadership experience.

Nice To Haves

• Associate degree or relevant technical training.
• WACEL certifications.
• ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician certification.
• Nuclear Density Gauge certification or authorization.
• ICC Special Inspector certifications.
• NICET certifications.
• State DOT testing certifications.
• Relevant experience in construction materials testing, concrete testing and inspections, soil compaction and density testing, asphalt testing and inspections, or geotechnical field testing.
• For Technician II, ACI or Nuclear Gauge certifications are preferred; entry-level applicants may apply without industry certifications.

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 following chain-of-custody protocols.
• Prepare clear, concise 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 properly use specialized field testing equipment in accordance with quality control standards.
• Support quality assurance and quality control activities and verify compliance with project specifications.
• Work with contractors, engineers, project managers, and construction teams.
• Assist with complex inspections and provide technical guidance or mentorship to less experienced technicians as experience grows.
• Comply with safety regulations and maintain a safe work environment on site and in the laboratory; use required PPE.
• Maintain and inspect vehicles and follow vehicle safety policies and procedures.
• Travel between job sites and other field locations to support business objectives and client engagements.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Training and certification support or opportunities may be available based on position and location.
• Opportunities for career growth into advanced technical, supervisory, or project management roles.
• Continued professional development and opportunities to expand technical expertise.

What This Job Offers

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