Highway Materials & Research Technician III
About The Position
As part of the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) Materials and Research team, this position plays a key role in ensuring the quality of materials used on Nebraska's roadway projects. Working in the North Platte Branch Laboratory, you will support both the development and verification of Concrete, Asphalt, Soils, and Aggregates, helping ensure materials meet state specifications before and during construction by utilizing AASHTO and ASTM testing methods. A major focus of this role is assisting with approving, testing, and evaluating construction materials. This includes processing and testing materials, analyzing laboratory and field data, reviewing contractor submittals, and verifying that the materials meet NDOT specifications. Your attention to detail and understanding of materials testing will directly contribute to the accuracy of acceptance decisions and the long-term performance of Nebraska's roads. You will support quality assurance processes by reviewing certifications, assisting in training field and laboratory staff, maintaining accurate records in AASHTOWare Project (AWP), assisting with Independent Assurance (IA) activities, and equipment calibrations. This role requires coordination with contractors, consultants, and internal NDOT staff to ensure compliance with testing procedures, specifications, and documentation requirements. In addition to daily lab operations, you will have opportunities to expand your technical knowledge, assist in implementing research testing, and contribute to lab processes. For someone who enjoys hands-on work, problem-solving, and applying technical knowledge in a team-oriented environment, this is a great opportunity to build a career in transportation materials.
Requirements
- High school education or the equivalent, and experience in highway construction inspection, materials testing, or other laboratory operations.
- Must obtain and maintain ACI field and strength certifications, Asphalt Field and Lab Technician Certifications, Earthwork, Soils, and Aggregate Certifications.
- A valid driver’s license is required.
- Proficient in computer skills, including Microsoft Office.
- Ability to perform mathematical calculations.
- Ability to communicate effectively with peers, contractors, and NDOT project personnel.
- Must be able to safely move, drag, lift, load, and unload various objects, equipment, materials, and supplies (up to 75 lbs.).
- Must be able to climb, bend, stoop, and work in outdoor temperature extremes.
- Must be able to work at heights (on or around bridges).
Nice To Haves
- Experience working with laboratory and field test equipment.
- Two years of experience reading and interpreting NDOT highway and bridge construction plans.
- Some light machinery and testing equipment operating experience.
- Experience using basic hand tools to perform simple mechanical activities.
- Experience working with Microsoft systems.
Responsibilities
- Fulfill the Quality Assurance Manager's administrative responsibilities in the administration of the Materials Sampling and Testing and the NDOT Quality Assurance Program.
- Work directly with field personnel, Project Managers, and Inspectors to coordinate the construction schedule with necessary testing.
- Visit project sites in Districts 5, 6, 7, and 8 to obtain materials, sample compliance oversight for the Quality Assurance Program, and provide project support.
- Maintain files for test results and associated information to provide necessary documentation and correspondence in OnBase, mainframe applications, and AWP.
- Document field sampled materials tests in AWP.
- Provide, recommend, and advise field construction personnel, including the Project Managers and various project personnel.
- Carry out Independent Assurance testing for the construction and testing Quality Assurance program of all aspects of construction.
- Act as a liaison between Materials and Research and field construction personnel regarding materials and testing procedures.
- Conduct continuous surveillance of materials used for highway construction and maintenance.
- Instruct and advise field personnel on the required use of manuals and sampling guides for materials.
- Assist in the educational programs for training construction personnel.
- Perform miscellaneous duties, tests, studies, research, etc., within the work area and other sections within the Materials and Research Division.
- Schedule, teach, and provide presentations for educating the field inspectors on the various aspects of testing, certifying, and specimen/sample submittals and associated documentation.
- Provide support to LPA Projects in Districts 5, 6, 7, and 8.
- Provide laboratory qualifications and inspections to Engineering Consultants and the Contractors' laboratories.
- Perform equipment calibrations and repairs as needed for field and laboratory equipment.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Benefits
- State-matched retirement contribution of 156%
- 13 paid holidays
- Generous leave accruals that begin immediately
- Military leave
- Tuition reimbursement program
- Dependent tuition reimbursement program with partnering Nebraska community colleges
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the Federal government
- 79% employer-paid health insurance plans
- Dental and vision insurance plans
- Employer-paid $20,000 life insurance policy
- Wide variety and availability of career advancement as the largest and most diverse employer in the State
- Opportunity to be part of meaningful work and make a difference through public service
- Training and Development based on your career aspirations
- Job security and stability, even during times of economic hardship
- Employee Assistance Program
- Fun, inviting teammates
- Free parking
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
High school or GED
