Laboratory Technician I

Universal Engineering Sciences•North Charleston, SC

17h•Hybrid

About The Position

Build Your Career From the Ground Up Looking for a hands-on opportunity where you can learn technical skills and see how your work contributes to real construction projects? As a Laboratory Technician I at UES, you’ll help test the materials that go into the built environment, from soil and concrete to aggregates and other construction materials. Your work helps teams understand whether materials meet project requirements and provides important information to engineers, field teams, and project managers. This is a great opportunity to begin or grow a career in construction materials testing, geotechnical services, or engineering support. Prior laboratory experience is helpful, but it isn’t required. We’re looking for someone who is curious, dependable, safety-minded, and ready to learn. What You’ll Work On You’ll gain hands-on experience while working alongside laboratory, engineering, and field professionals. You will: Perform laboratory testing on soil, concrete, aggregates, and other construction materials Learn and apply recognized testing standards and laboratory methods Operate laboratory equipment and develop valuable technical testing skills Prepare and handle samples while helping ensure accurate, reliable results Partner with supervisors, engineers, and field teams to keep projects moving Help identify testing concerns and communicate results clearly Contribute to a safe, organized, quality-focused laboratory environment What Will Help You Succeed You don’t need to know everything on day one. Success in this role starts with the right mindset. You’ll thrive here if you are: Curious and eager to learn technical skills and testing methods Detail-oriented, with an eye for accuracy and quality Hands-on and dependable, and comfortable working with materials and equipment Safety-focused and committed to following established practices Organized and adaptable, with the ability to balance multiple priorities A strong communicator who enjoys working as part of a team

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree or technical coursework in engineering, geology, construction science, or a related field preferred.
0-3 years of experience in construction materials testing, geotechnical laboratory work, or a related field (prior laboratory experience preferred but not required).
Commitment to workplace safety, following OSHA, company, and laboratory safety protocols, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Basic computer proficiency, with experience in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and Field Data Collection (FDC) software preferred.
Ability to read, write, and interpret procedures, manuals, technical documents, and reports related to construction materials testing and laboratory protocols.
Mathematical skills sufficient to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
Effective verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to collaborate with colleagues, supervisors, field personnel, and clients to carry out instructions and report findings.
Strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
Detail-oriented and quality-focused, ensuring accuracy in sample preparation, testing procedures, and data documentation.
Ability to work independently within the limitations of experience, using initiative to solve routine lab challenges.
Ability to stand for extended periods of time and perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting and moving materials or equipment.
Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record; ability to travel to job sites as needed.

Nice To Haves

Prior laboratory experience preferred but not required.
Associate degree or technical coursework in engineering, geology, construction science, or a related field preferred.
Experience in Field Data Collection (FDC) software preferred.

Responsibilities

Perform routine laboratory testing on construction materials, including soil, concrete, and other construction materials following ASTM, AASHTO, and other applicable industry standards to ensure compliance with project specifications.
Ensure that project testing requirements are met and compliant with project specifications, requirements, and company policies and procedures.
Accurately document and report test results, maintaining detailed, organized, and error-free records.
Assist with sample preparation, handling, and proper storage, ensuring sample integrity, traceability, and adherence to laboratory protocols.
Operate laboratory testing equipment.
Follow strict safety protocols and laboratory procedures, including proper handling of materials and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Communicate effectively with lab supervisors, engineers, and field personnel, providing timely updates on test results, sample status, and any technical issues.
Perform additional duties as assigned, supporting the laboratory team, field technicians, and project managers as needed.