Material Testing Technician

QAI Laboratories; Burnaby; On-site; CAD 50,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

QAI Laboratories in Burnaby, BC is looking for a Technician I to join their Building Products team. This role involves performing fire testing and ensuring compliance with building codes. Candidates should have a technical diploma and experience in a construction or testing environment.

The position offers an annual salary between $50,000 and $65,000, alongside flexible working hours as required. Strong communication skills and mechanical aptitude are necessary for success in this role.

Qualifications

• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and technical specifications.
• Knowledge of construction/laboratory instrumentation and general laboratory procedures.
• Physically capable of lifting heavy materials and manual work.

Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory testing, including fire resistance testing.
• Build and assemble test samples according to requirements.
• Safely operate tools and maintain a clean lab environment.

Skills

Technical diploma or trade certification

Experience in construction or testing environments

Strong mechanical aptitude

Effective communication skills

Education

Technical diploma, trade certification

Tools

MS Office

Job description

QAI Job Number: QAI-BBY-TESTECH-04272026

Job Title

Technician I

Location

Burnaby, BC

Category

Building Products

Salary

$50,000 - $65,000 annually

Position Summary

QAI is seeking a Technician – Fire testing to join our Building Products team in Burnaby, BC. The ideal candidate will have a technical diploma and/or at least two years of experience in a structural or construction testing environment, with knowledge of ASTM, UL and CSA test methods related to building products. Flexibility in work schedule and willingness to work overtime as needed.

Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory testing, including fire resistance testing of doors, frames, wall systems, and firestopping, with hands‑on construction and setup of test assemblies in accordance with building codes and test standards.
• Build and assemble test samples such as walls, floors, doors, and other assemblies according to requirements.
• Read and interpret drawings, test standards, and client specifications to correctly set up test assemblies.
• Perform testing, collect data, and assist with or prepare test reports under supervision or independently.
• Record test data, observations, and deviations in a clear and accurate manner during and after testing.
• Safely operate tools, equipment, and material devices for construction and setup.
• Disassemble and dispose of test setups following completion of testing, maintaining a clean and organized lab environment.
• Cooperate with others and act professionally.
• Maintain lab equipment, tools, and devices as required.
• Effectively and efficiently handle multiple projects, conflicting timelines, and changing priorities.
• Learn key standards in subject area.
• Work with the team to effectively resolve technical issues and determine the appropriate interpretation of technical requirements.
• Maintain effective communication with internal staff and clients (willingness to travel as needed).
• Understand and navigate the quality management system and adhere to QAI’s policies.
• Meet department goals and objectives.
• Other duties as assigned by the manager or its designee.

Qualifications

• Technical diploma, trade certification, or equivalent experience in construction, mechanical systems, or a related field.
• Experience in construction, fabrication, or testing environments.
• Knowledge of construction/laboratory instrumentation, data acquisition, operating principles, calibration, and general laboratory procedures.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, technical specifications, and test standards.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem‑solving skills, with attention to detail and build accuracy.
• Physically capable of lifting heavy materials and performing manual work in a lab/shop environment.
• Effective communication skills and ability to work collaboratively within a technical team.
• Basic understanding of quality procedures and HR policies.
• Understanding of workplace safety practices and experience working in regulated environments.
• Familiar with MS Office and other software relevant to the position.

Additional Requirements

• Candidates must hold a valid driver’s license.

Additional Assets

• Previous experience with construction materials and building code compliance practices in the US and Canada.

Equal Opportunity Employer

QAI Laboratories is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status. We are committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination or harassment.

Note: No sponsorship available.