Construction & Geotechnical Materials Lab Manager

Thompson Engineering; Ridgeland (MS); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Thompson Engineering in Ridgeland, MS seeks a Construction & Geotechnical Materials Laboratory Manager to lead laboratory operations supporting testing services. You will oversee personnel, equipment, quality systems, and safety to ensure accurate, timely, and compliant testing of soils, aggregates, concrete, asphalt, and related materials.

This role emphasizes a proactive, safety-minded leader who can develop procedures, manage accreditation programs, mentor staff, and collaborate with

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a STEM field with 3+ years in construction/geotechnical lab testing.
• Alternatively, 10+ years of relevant construction or geotechnical lab experience.
• Certifications in concrete/aggregates/soil or asphalt testing (ACI/NICET/DOT).

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and manage daily lab operations to ensure safe, accurate testing on schedule.
• Ensure activities comply with Quality Program, QMS, specs, and industry standards.
• Develop and maintain lab procedures aligned with quality and operational needs.
• Oversee proficiency testing and accreditation programs (A2LA, AASHTO, USACE, ISO 17025).
• Identify project risks and apply Thompson's risk management practices.
• Lead, mentor, and develop laboratory staff; assist with recruiting and training.
• Oversee calibration, maintenance, and operation of testing equipment.
• Support proposals, scope definition, pricing, and client deliverables.

Skills

Leadership

Quality assurance

Safety culture

Team development

Education

Bachelor's degree in a STEM-related field

10+ years of relevant construction or geotechnical lab experience

Tools

ACI certification

NICET certification

DOT certification

Job description

Position Summary

Thompson Engineering is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Construction & Geotechnical Materials Laboratory Manager to lead and manage laboratory operations supporting construction and geotechnical testing services. This role is responsible for overseeing laboratory personnel, equipment, quality systems, and safety practices to ensure accurate, timely, and compliant testing of soils, aggregates, concrete, asphalt, and related materials. The Laboratory Manager plays a critical role in maintaining Thompson's quality standards, supporting business objectives, and developing high-performing teams.

Key Responsibilities

Laboratory Operations & Quality

• Coordinate and manage daily operations of the construction and/or geotechnical materials laboratory to ensure testing services are performed safely, accurately, and on schedule.


• Ensure all laboratory activities comply with Thompson Engineering's Quality Program, Quality Management System (QMS), project specifications, and applicable industry standards.


• Develop, implement, and maintain laboratory-specific procedures that align with company quality and operational requirements.


• Oversee proficiency testing programs and ensure compliance with A2LA, AASHTO, USACE, ISO 17025, R18, and other applicable accreditation standards.


• Identify project-related risks and potential failure points and apply Thompson's risk management practices to protect the company and clients.

Leadership & Personnel Management

• Lead, supervise, and mentor laboratory personnel; ensure staff are properly trained, equipped, and supported to perform their duties safely and effectively.


• Evaluate employee performance and support professional development and career growth in accordance with company policies.


• Assist with recruiting, hiring, onboarding, and training of laboratory staff to meet current and future workload demands.


• Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, teamwork, and professionalism.

Equipment, Facilities & Resources

• Oversee efficient utilization of laboratory facilities, equipment, and resources; identify and request additional resources as needed.


• Ensure proper calibration, maintenance, and operation of all laboratory testing equipment.


• Maintain laboratory organization, cleanliness, and a professional work environment.

Business & Administrative Support

• Collaborate with Office and Department Management in the preparation of proposals, quotations, and cost estimates for laboratory testing services.


• Ensure accurate scope definition, manpower planning, and pricing to support profitability and client expectations.


• Supervise laboratory administrative functions, including report preparation, documentation, and client deliverables.


• Ensure compliance with company administrative requirements such as timekeeping, expense reporting, and purchasing procedures.


• Assist Department Management with annual business planning and short-term business development efforts.

Safety & Compliance

• Lead laboratory safety initiatives and promote a strong safety culture through pre-task planning, training, and active oversight.


• Model safe work practices and ensure compliance with all safety policies, procedures, and regulations.

Additional Duties

• Perform construction and geotechnical laboratory testing as needed based on workload and staffing levels.

What Thompson Engineering Is Looking For

• A proactive leader with a strong sense of ownership, accountability, and attention to detail.


• A quality-focused professional committed to accuracy, compliance, and continuous improvement.


• A safety-minded manager who leads by example and prioritizes employee well-being.


• A collaborative team builder who can develop talent and manage laboratory operations efficiently.


• A professional who thrives in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments while maintaining high standards.

Qualifications

Education & Experience (One of the following):

• Bachelor's degree in a STEM-related field with 3+ years of experience in construction and geotechnical materials laboratory testing; or


• 10+ years of relevant construction or geotechnical laboratory experience in lieu of a degree.

Certifications

Certification by recognized national, regional, or state authorities (or equivalent in-house certification) in one or more of the following areas:

• Concrete


• Aggregates


• Soil and rock


• Asphalt / road and paving materials (Examples include ACI, NICET, DOT)

Additional Requirements

• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.


• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.


• Demonstrated ability to manage laboratory operations while maintaining quality and safety standards.

About Thompson Engineering

Founded in 1953, Thompson Engineering provides quality assurance and professional services for construction projects supporting industrial, infrastructure, and community development. Our services include drilling, materials testing, construction inspection, chemistry laboratory services, engineering design, environmental assessments, surveying, geotechnical studies, and construction management. Today, Thompson Engineering is recognized for leadership on projects that define skylines, coastlines, and transportation networks across the Southeast. From project planning and design through construction and completion, we deliver innovative solutions to complex infrastructure and building challenges for industrial, commercial, transportation, federal, and municipal clients.

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.