Quality Control Technician

Vulcan Materials Company•Abilene, TX

36d

About The Position

The Quality Control Technician inspects materials being produced, prepares and tests samples, interprets and reports results, and performs routine and special laboratory testing to ensure materials conform to American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and VMC standards. The role investigates poor product quality and customer complaints, implements corrective action, and advises operations personnel on potential changes. The technician performs field and laboratory tests across the product line at production, shipping, and jobsite arrival. The position also involves inspecting stockpiles, material sources, and truck loads; monitoring stockpile construction to minimize segregation and contamination; assisting with plant calibrations; and maintaining testing equipment, records, reports, and laboratory housekeeping. The technician communicates with supervisors, production staff, customers, and government inspectors to share test results and resolve quality issues.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Typically an entry-level position requiring 0 to 2 years of laboratory testing experience in construction aggregate, HMA, or RMC properties; candidates may have prior training or experience and must demonstrate proficiency in basic quality control duties.
Good math skills and ability to perform simple to moderately complex arithmetic calculations.
Ability to maintain and calibrate testing equipment.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google, Oracle Business Environment, and other relevant software packages.
Attention to detail.
Ability to perform material testing in an orderly, efficient, and accurate manner.
Ability to document inspection and testing activities.
Good verbal communication skills for interacting with plant production personnel, plant managers, customers, and agency representatives.
Ability to problem-solve and work independently.
Knowledge of and awareness of construction and mining site hazards.
Ability to wear protective gear when working in the field, including protection against noise, dust, and hazardous materials.
Ability to lift and transport sample buckets and bags weighing up to 50 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Some college education.
ACI Concrete Laboratory Technician Level I certification.
N.I.C.E.T. Level II certification in Asphalt and Concrete.
State- and locally required certifications.

Responsibilities

Sample and test aggregates in accordance with applicable standard test methods.
Conduct field and laboratory testing across the product line at the point of production, shipping, and arrival at the jobsite.
Perform testing using applicable ASTM, AASHTO, and DOT methods.
Communicate test results promptly to the supervisor and document them in the database.
Troubleshoot problems and review basic product specifications.
Visually inspect stockpiles, material sources, and truck loads at plant sites.
Monitor stockpile construction daily to minimize or eliminate segregation and contamination, and immediately notify management if contamination is identified.
Conduct testing and assist with plant calibrations to ensure product quality.
Complete required reports accurately and promptly and maintain hard-copy files.
Periodically inspect, calibrate, and maintain testing equipment.
Maintain housekeeping standards in and around the laboratory.
Develop and maintain relationships with state, county, and city inspectors and customers to communicate test results and resolve product quality issues promptly.
Perform other duties as assigned.