Field Technician - Materials Tester

MacKay Contracting; Cranbrook; On-site; CAD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Technical growth

Hands-on projects

Safety-driven culture

Community infrastructure

Job summary

MacKay Contracting in Cranbrook, BC, seeks a Field Technician to perform soils, aggregate, asphalt, and concrete testing, both in the field and lab. You’ll prepare detailed test reports, plan quality control activities, and coordinate with field teams while supporting safety programs and regulatory compliance.

You will split time between field sites, the Cranbrook lab, and the office, contributing to multiple projects and ensuring high-quality data and client satisfaction.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of CSA and ASTM testing methods.
• Understanding of concrete and asphalt mix designs and exposure classifications.
• Experience with the use, care, and handling of nuclear density gauges.
• Knowledge of soil compaction principles and testing procedures.
• Familiarity with aggregate classification and testing standards.
• Awareness of or interest in environmental monitoring procedures.
• Strong report-writing skills and the ability to interpret technical results.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams, and common mobile applications.
• Experience with B2W Software Suite, Bluebeam, and survey/positioning software (an asset).
• A valid driver’s licence with a clean driver’s abstract and a strong commitment to safe driving.
• The ability and willingness to travel and work remotely as required.
• Physical capability to lift a minimum of 50 lbs.
• Flexibility to work overtime or weekends when project demands require it.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• The ability to follow and provide both written and verbal instructions.
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills with internal teams, clients, and stakeholders.
• The ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.

Responsibilities

• Perform testing of soils, aggregates, asphalt, and concrete in accordance with CSA and ASTM standards.
• Conduct accurate sampling, inspection, and quality control/quality assurance testing.
• Work in both field and lab environments, preparing and maintaining detailed test reports and records.
• Prepare work plans and quality control plans.
• Schedule equipment and coordinate with field teams.
• Administer safety programs and support positive public and client relations.
• Submit daily safety documentation to SiteDocs.
• Ensure daily submission of timecards.
• Support general construction and labour activities as required.

Skills

CSA/ASTM methods

Concrete mixes

Asphalt mixes

Nuclear density gauges

Soil compaction

Aggregate testing

Environmental monitoring

Report writing

MS Office

B2W/Bluebeam

Survey software

Driver's licence

Travel readiness

Lifting 50 lbs

Overtime flexibility

Time management

Interpersonal skills

Outdoor work

Tools

B2W Software

Bluebeam

Surveying software

Job description

We’re not just in the business of moving dirt. We build the foundations that communities grow on. From highways and underground utilities to mine infrastructure and subdivisions, MacKay takes on complex civil construction projects across the East Kootenays.

For over 35 years, our reputation has been built on quality, accountability, and doing the hard things well. Behind every successful project is accurate data, reliable testing, and strong field support — and that’s where you come in.

How You’ll Contribute

As a Field Technician at MacKay, you play a critical role in ensuring our projects meet the highest standards of quality and compliance. You provide hands‑on technical support to our Project Managers and Construction Superintendents, helping ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and to specification.

You’ll split your time between the field, our materials testing lab, and the Cranbrook office — supporting multiple projects at any given time. Your work directly influences project performance, regulatory compliance, and client confidence.

What You’ll Get to Do

• Perform testing of soils, aggregates, asphalt, and concrete in accordance with CSA and ASTM standards.
• Conduct accurate sampling, inspection, and quality control/quality assurance testing.
• Work in both field and lab environments, preparing and maintaining detailed test reports and records.
• Prepare work plans and quality control plans.
• Schedule equipment and coordinate with field teams.
• Administer safety programs and support positive public and client relations.
• Submit daily safety documentation to SiteDocs.
• Ensure daily submission of timecards.
• Support general construction and labour activities as required.

Who You Are

You’re technically strong, detail‑oriented, and comfortable moving between the field and the office. You understand that accurate testing and documentation are just as important as the work happening on the ground. You take initiative, communicate clearly, and approach challenges with a solutions mindset.

You have:

• Knowledge of applicable CSA and ASTM testing methods.
• Understanding of concrete and asphalt mix designs and exposure classifications.
• Experience with the use, care, and handling of nuclear density gauges.
• Knowledge of soil compaction principles and testing procedures.
• Familiarity with aggregate classification and testing standards.
• Awareness of or interest in environmental monitoring procedures.
• Strong report‑writing skills and the ability to interpret technical results.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams, and common mobile applications.
• Experience with B2W Software Suite, Bluebeam, and survey/positioning software (an asset).
• A valid driver’s licence with a clean driver’s abstract and a strong commitment to safe driving.
• The ability and willingness to travel and work remotely as required.
• Physical capability to lift a minimum of 50 lbs.
• Flexibility to work overtime or weekends when project demands require it.
• Strong organizational and time‑management skills.
• The ability to follow and provide both written and verbal instructions.
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills with internal teams, clients, and stakeholders.
• The ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.

What’s In It for You

This role is based out of our Cranbrook office at 1600A Theatre Road. Travel to various job sites will be required, with office‑based work completed when not in the field. Overtime may occasionally be required but is not expected to be a major component of the role.

• Competitive compensation.
• Opportunities for technical growth and professional development.
• Hands‑on exposure to complex civil construction projects.
• A team that values safety, innovation, and accountability.
• The opportunity to build infrastructure that strengthens our communities.

At MacKay, quality isn’t an afterthought — it’s built into everything we do.