Laboratory Technician

Universal Engineering Sciences • Little Rock, AR

24d • Onsite

About The Position

UES is hiring a full-time Laboratory Technician I in Little Rock, Arkansas, to support construction materials testing operations. The role evaluates soil, concrete, asphalt, aggregates, and other materials used in infrastructure and development projects. The technician learns standardized testing procedures, operates laboratory equipment, and works with engineers, project managers, and field technicians to help ensure materials meet quality, performance, and project requirements. No previous construction materials testing experience is required; hands-on training and technical skill development are provided.

Work is conducted in a laboratory and may also involve fieldwork and exposure to outdoor conditions. Occasional travel of up to 10% may be required for off-site meetings, training, or company events. The role requires physical activity, including handling samples and equipment, standing or walking for extended periods, and navigating uneven terrain when fieldwork is needed.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 0–3 years of experience in construction materials testing, geotechnical laboratory work, or a related field; prior laboratory experience is not required.
• Commitment to workplace safety and ability to follow OSHA, company, and laboratory safety protocols, including proper use of personal protective equipment.
• Basic computer proficiency.
• Ability to read, write, and interpret procedures, manuals, technical documents, and reports related to construction materials testing and laboratory protocols.
• Mathematical skills sufficient to perform calculations using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals across units of measure.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills and ability to collaborate with colleagues, supervisors, field personnel, and clients.
• Strong organizational, time-management, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks.
• Attention to detail and a quality-focused approach to sample preparation, testing, and documentation.
• Ability to work independently within the limits of experience and use initiative to resolve routine laboratory challenges.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform physical tasks, including lifting and moving materials or equipment.
• Ability to lift and carry 35–75 pounds over distances up to 75 feet and perform regular repetitive motions.
• Ability to stand, walk, drive, and operate laboratory and field equipment for extended periods.
• Ability to bend, twist, reach, stoop, pull, kneel, climb, balance, lift, carry, and push as required.
• Ability to travel to job sites as needed.
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to communicate effectively in laboratory and field environments, often while using personal protective equipment.
• Ability to use vision, including close, distant, peripheral, depth vision, and focusing, and to smell.

Nice To Haves

• Associate degree or technical coursework in engineering, geology, construction science, or a related field.
• Previous laboratory, construction, manufacturing, quality control, or materials testing experience.
• Experience with Microsoft Office, including Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Experience with Field Data Collection (FDC) software.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine laboratory testing on soil, concrete, asphalt, aggregates, and other construction materials in accordance with ASTM, AASHTO, and other applicable standards.
• Ensure testing requirements are met and results comply with project specifications, requirements, company policies, and procedures.
• Prepare, organize, handle, and store samples while maintaining sample integrity and traceability.
• Operate and maintain laboratory testing equipment.
• Accurately record, document, and report test results, keeping detailed and organized records.
• Follow testing procedures, quality standards, laboratory protocols, and safety requirements, including proper use of personal protective equipment.
• Communicate test results, sample status, and technical issues to lab supervisors, engineers, and field personnel.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory environment.
• Collaborate with engineers, project managers, field technicians, and other laboratory personnel.
• Support the laboratory team, field technicians, and project managers with additional duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Hands-on training in practical testing methods.
• Career development and opportunities to expand technical knowledge and responsibilities.
• Collaborative support from experienced technicians, engineers, and project managers.

What This Job Offers

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