Construction Material Testing Laboratory Technician I

UES, Inc.; Knoxville (TN); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

UES, Inc. seeks a detail-oriented Laboratory Technician I to support geotechnical, construction materials testing, and environmental projects in a controlled lab setting. You will prepare samples, operate testing equipment, document results, and help maintain lab organization and safety.

The role emphasizes accuracy, adherence to procedures, and collaboration with engineers, field crews, and project managers to ensure high-quality test data for infrastructure projects.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associated degree or technical coursework preferred in engineering, geology, or construction science.
• 0-3 years of experience in construction materials testing or geotechnical lab work; previous lab experience preferred but not required.
• Commitment to workplace safety and compliance with OSHA and lab protocols, including PPE.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office and data collection software; able to read and interpret procedures and technical reports.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine laboratory testing on soil, concrete, asphalt, and aggregates following ASTM, AASHTO, and applicable standards.
• Document and report test results with detailed records.
• Prepare samples, handle and store materials to maintain integrity and traceability.
• Operate laboratory testing equipment and maintain equipment in good condition.
• Follow safety protocols and use PPE at all times.
• Communicate updates on test results and sample status to supervisors and field personnel.
• Perform additional duties to support the lab team and project managers as needed.

Skills

Attention to detail

Follow procedures

Safety protocols

MS Office

Lab equipment

Communication skills

Independent work

Education

High School diploma

Associate degree or technical coursework

Tools

FDC software

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Overview

At UES, we're a team of more than 4,000 engineers, scientists, geologists, inspectors, technicians, and drillers united by a shared purpose-to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. As a national leader in geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, and materials testing and inspection, we collaborate on transformative projects across transportation, energy, water, healthcare, and more. Learn more about the benefits of joining Team UES and our core values at careers.teamues.com.

Position Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Laboratory Technician I to join our team and support geotechnical, construction materials testing, and environmental projects. This role is responsible for performing laboratory testing and analysis on soil, concrete, asphalt, aggregates, and other construction materials to ensure compliance with industry standards and project specifications. Working in a controlled laboratory environment, the Lab Technician I plays a vital role in ensuring accurate, high-quality test results that support infrastructure and construction projects.

The ideal candidate will have a strong attention to detail, the ability to follow standardized testing procedures, and a commitment to safety and quality assurance. You will be responsible for preparing samples, operating and maintaining testing equipment, recording data, and assisting in maintaining laboratory organization and compliance.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine laboratory testing on construction materials, including soil, concrete, and other construction materials following ASTM, AASHTO, and other applicable industry standards to ensure compliance with project specifications.
• Ensure that project testing requirements are met and compliant with project specifications, requirements, and company policies and procedures.
• Accurately document and report test results, maintaining detailed, organized, and error-free records.
• Assist with sample preparation, handling, and proper storage, ensuring sample integrity, traceability, and adherence to laboratory protocols.
• Operate laboratory testing equipment.
• Follow strict safety protocols and laboratory procedures, including proper handling of materials and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Communicate effectively with lab supervisors, engineers, and field personnel, providing timely updates on test results, sample status, and any technical issues.
• Perform additional duties as assigned, supporting the laboratory team, field technicians, and project managers as needed.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree or technical coursework in engineering, geology, construction science, or a related field preferred.
• 0-3 years of experience in construction materials testing, geotechnical laboratory work, or a related field (prior laboratory experience preferred but not required).
• Commitment to workplace safety, following OSHA, company, and laboratory safety protocols, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Basic computer proficiency, with experience in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and Field Data Collection (FDC) software preferred.
• Ability to read, write, and interpret procedures, manuals, technical documents, and reports related to construction materials testing and laboratory protocols.
• Mathematical skills sufficient to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to collaborate with colleagues, supervisors, field personnel, and clients to carry out instructions and report findings.
• Strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
• Detail-oriented and quality-focused, ensuring accuracy in sample preparation, testing procedures, and data documentation.
• Ability to work independently within the limitations of experience, using initiative to solve routine lab challenges.
• Ability to stand for extended periods of time and perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting and moving materials or equipment.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record; ability to travel to job sites as needed.

Travel Requirements

This position does not require regular travel as part of its primary responsibilities. However, occasional travel may be required, up to 10%, primarily for occasional off-site meetings, training sessions, or company events. Travel, when necessary, will be communicated in advance and aligned with business needs.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

Work is sometimes conducted in a laboratory setting, but may also involve fieldwork and exposure to outdoor conditions, including:

• Sites that may not be accessible by vehicle, requiring travel on foot through wetlands, swamps, grasslands, construction zones, and other uneven or rugged terrain with natural and man-made obstacles such as sand, brush, and debris.
• Moderate to loud noise levels due to lab equipment, field operations, and construction environments.
• Exposure to dirt, dust, chemicals, sun, heat, humidity, and varying weather conditions as part of field sample collection and testing.

  Physical requirements include:

• Ability to lift and carry between 35 and 75 lbs. over distances up to 75 feet, involving regular repetitive motion.
• Ability to stand, walk, drive, and operate laboratory and field equipment for extended periods.
• Frequent use of hands and arms for typing, handling samples, operating lab instruments, and performing testing procedures.
• Ability to bend, twist, reach, stoop, pull, kneel, climb, balance, lift, carry, and push as required for laboratory and fieldwork.
• Ability to communicate effectively through verbal and written means in a lab and field environment, often requiring the use of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment).
• Ability to use your senses to see (including close, distant, and peripheral vison, depth vision, and ability to focus) and smell.

EEO Statement

UES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is proud to recruit the most qualified candidates. Please see our full EEO Statement at the bottom of the page here