Laboratory Manager – Construction Materials & Geotechnical

United Consulting Group, ltd.•Norcross, GA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

United Consulting is seeking a highly experienced Laboratory Manager to lead and grow our construction materials and geotechnical laboratory operations. This role is responsible for overseeing laboratory performance, ensuring compliance with accreditation standards, maintaining technical excellence, and supporting business growth across Georgia and the Southeast. The ideal candidate is a strong technical leader with proven experience managing accredited laboratories, developing teams, and building client relationships, with a focus on delivering high-quality, timely, and reliable testing services.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or related field
Minimum 4–8 years of experience in construction materials testing and/or geotechnical laboratory operations
In lieu of a degree, candidates with 10–15+ years of progressive experience in construction materials testing and/or geotechnical laboratory operations will be strongly considered
Proven experience managing or leading laboratory teams and operations
Strong knowledge of ASTM, AASHTO, and DOT testing procedures
Experience managing laboratory accreditation programs and audits
Demonstrated ability to manage projects, staff, and client relationships
Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills
Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds on a regular basis
Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods
Ability to work both in a laboratory environment and occasionally in the field as needed
Ability to handle and transport samples, molds, and testing equipment safely
Must be able to work in varying conditions, including exposure to dust, noise, and temperature changes

Nice To Haves

Licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.) in Georgia (or ability to obtain)
Certifications such as ACI, NICET, or equivalent
Experience with GDOT laboratory requirements and regional agency standards
Experience with advanced geotechnical testing (triaxial, consolidation, permeability, etc.)
Experience supporting both field and laboratory operations

Responsibilities

Provide overall leadership and direction for laboratory operations, staff, and performance
Manage and mentor laboratory personnel, including technicians and support staff
Establish staffing plans, workload distribution, and performance expectations
Promote a culture of safety, accountability, responsiveness, and continuous improvement
Maintain and oversee laboratory accreditations (GDOT, AASHTO, CCRL, AMRL, USACE, etc.)
Lead preparation for internal and external audits and ensure successful outcomes
Ensure compliance with all applicable standards, including ASTM, AASHTO, and client specifications
Maintain laboratory quality systems, documentation, and personnel certifications
Ensure accuracy, consistency, and integrity of all testing data and reports
Provide technical leadership for laboratory testing, including: Soils classification, compaction, consolidation, shear testing, Triaxial, etc.; Aggregate testing and gradation analysis; Concrete sampling, curing, and compressive strength testing; Asphalt and specialty materials testing (as applicable)
Review and approve laboratory results, calculations, and reports
Troubleshoot complex testing issues and provide solutions
Coordinate with project managers and field teams to support project execution
Establish testing scopes, schedules, and turnaround expectations
Serve as a key point of contact for clients on laboratory-related matters
Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, agencies, and partners
Ensure timely delivery of high-quality results to support project success
Monitor laboratory productivity, utilization, and efficiency
Assist with budgeting, forecasting, and cost control
Manage laboratory resources, equipment, and inventory
Ensure alignment between operational performance and company financial goals
Interface with regulatory agencies, clients, and subcontractors in a professional manner
Collaborate with internal departments (geotechnical, environmental, CMT, CEI)
Support company-wide initiatives and cross-office coordination