Material Laboratory Technician (Pavement Smoothness Technician)

the South Dakota State Government•Pierre, SD

10d•Onsite

About The Position

The Material Laboratory Technician is responsible for collecting inertial profiler pavement smoothness data for newly constructed Portland cement concrete and asphalt pavements and preparing smoothness reports for each project. The position also performs highway construction materials testing in the Central Materials Laboratory as assigned. Work takes place on active highway construction projects and inside a highway materials laboratory. Outdoor duties are performed in all weather conditions, and the role requires travel within South Dakota. Some extended workdays may be necessary to complete pavement smoothness testing; overnight travel is minimal. Laboratory work may involve exposure to dust, chemicals, noise, and heated materials. Certification in one or more materials testing and/or inspection areas is required within the first year of employment. The supervisor will determine further certification areas according to job responsibilities and needs. Required certifications must be maintained for continued employment, and the Department of Transportation provides classes and training. A valid driver's license is required. The position is full-time with the South Dakota Department of Transportation in Pierre, South Dakota. It is eligible for Veterans' Preference. Applicants with a National Career Readiness Certificate may submit it, but the certificate is not required. The State does not sponsor work visas; hires must verify identity and U.S. work eligibility and complete Form I-9. Applications must be submitted online; emailed resumes or submissions are not accepted.

Requirements

A valid driver's license.
Certification in one or more materials testing and/or inspection areas within the first year of employment; required certifications must be maintained.
Ability to perform highway construction materials testing within acceptable standards.
Ability to use arms, legs, and back to safely move, drag, and lift 30 pounds frequently, up to 50 pounds occasionally without assistance, and 100 or more pounds infrequently with assistance.
Ability to sit or stand for extended periods.
Ability to read, interpret, and implement state and federal laws, policies, procedures, and standards in sampling and testing activities.
Ability to communicate effectively with SDDOT personnel and contractors and maintain positive working relationships.
Ability to prioritize workload, schedule activities, and complete work within timeframes.
Ability to understand written materials and follow procedures, complete work accurately and thoroughly, and perform mathematical calculations accurately.
Computer skills to operate test equipment, Microsoft Office, and Department-specific software.
Mechanical skills to operate and maintain equipment.
Ability to work cooperatively with others, communicate information clearly, and provide training, guidance, feedback, and work directions to others.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree in civil engineering technology or a related field.
Experience in highway construction inspection and materials testing.
Knowledge of techniques and procedures for sampling and testing materials used in highway construction and maintenance.
Knowledge of common highway construction material testing equipment.

Responsibilities

Collect inertial profiler pavement smoothness data for newly constructed Portland cement concrete and asphalt pavements.
Prepare smoothness reports for each project.
Perform highway construction materials testing in the Central Materials Laboratory as assigned.
Obtain and maintain required materials testing and/or inspection certifications.
Travel within South Dakota to work on highway construction projects.

Benefits

Health insurance, including low- and high-deductible plans and a $0 premium employee-only coverage option.
Well-being program.
Employee assistance program.
Flexible benefits including dental, vision, life insurance, critical illness coverage, and more.
Health savings account.
6% fully matched retirement plan; the position is a member of Class A retirement under SDRS.
15 vacation days per year.
14 sick leave days per year.
15 military leave days per year.
Paid parental and family medical leave.
11 paid holidays.
Longevity pay.
Semimonthly pay periods.
Eligibility for meal per diems.