Construction Materials Technician

Actalent; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 25,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental & vision

401(k) retirement plan

Paid time off

Job summary

Actalent in Nashville, TN is seeking a Construction Materials Technician to perform field and laboratory testing on active projects, documenting results and ensuring quality control across sites. You will follow project plans, operate nuclear density gauges, collect samples, and report findings while adhering to safety policies and procedures.

This role requires meticulous data entry and collaborative problem solving.

Qualifications

• Experience with field and laboratory testing of construction materials (concrete, asphalt, soils).
• Strong documentation and reporting skills with attention to detail.
• Valid driver's license and safe driving record.

Responsibilities

• Perform field testing, inspections, and observations on construction projects.
• Document field activities and prepare daily test/inspection reports.
• Calibrate and maintain testing equipment.
• Safely operate nuclear density gauges and other material testing devices.
• Record and organize testing data per project standards.

Skills

Materials testing

Field documentation

Data reporting

Software literacy

Communication

Independence

Safety compliance

Driving

Education

Civil engineering background

ACI/NICET awareness

Tools

Nuclear density gauge

Test reporting software

Job description

Job Description

The Construction Materials Technician performs field and laboratory testing, inspections, and observations on a variety of construction projects under general supervision. This role follows written and verbal instructions, reviews project plans and specifications, and applies standard construction materials testing procedures to support quality control and compliance with project requirements and industry standards. The technician documents all activities thoroughly, communicates non-conforming conditions, and helps ensure that work is completed safely, accurately, and efficiently.

Job Description

The Construction Materials Technician performs field and laboratory testing, inspections, and observations on a variety of construction projects under general supervision. This role follows written and verbal instructions, reviews project plans and specifications, and applies standard construction materials testing procedures to support quality control and compliance with project requirements and industry standards. The technician documents all activities thoroughly, communicates non-conforming conditions, and helps ensure that work is completed safely, accurately, and efficiently.

Responsibilities

• Receive, understand, and follow written and verbal instructions related to assigned projects and testing activities.
• Review project plans, specifications, and testing requirements to understand the scope of work and applicable standards.
• Perform field testing, inspections, and observations on construction projects under general supervision, following established procedures.
• Document field activities and prepare daily reports that accurately reflect testing, inspection, and observation results.
• Identify non-conforming conditions or deficiencies and communicate them promptly to appropriate project personnel.
• Clean, maintain, and calibrate assigned equipment in accordance with applicable standards, procedures, and manufacturer guidelines.
• Safely transport, operate, and maintain specialized testing equipment, including nuclear density gauges and other materials testing devices.
• Apply knowledge of soil classification, compaction testing, and standard construction materials testing procedures in the field and laboratory.
• Assist with sample collection, preparation, and materials testing for concrete, asphalt, soils, and other construction materials as required.
• Record and organize testing data and inspection results in accordance with project requirements and industry standards.
• Use computers, tablets, and software applications to complete reports, maintain records, and support project documentation.
• Follow all safety policies, procedures, and applicable regulations while performing field and laboratory activities.
• Collaborate with clients, contractors, and team members to support project objectives and maintain effective working relationships.
• Represent the organization professionally in both field and office settings, demonstrating a commitment to quality and accuracy.
• Manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively and adapt to changing project demands and schedules.

Essential Skills

• Basic understanding of construction materials testing, inspections, sample collection, and field documentation practices.
• Ability to accurately record, maintain, and organize testing and inspection records.
• Proficiency with computers, tablets, and common business software applications for data entry and reporting.
• Ability to learn and utilize proprietary software and reporting systems for test documentation and project communication.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills for interacting with project stakeholders and preparing clear reports.
• Ability to follow procedures, accept direction, and work independently after appropriate training.
• Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with clients, contractors, and team members.
• Professional demeanor and ability to represent the organization positively in the field and office.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality, accuracy, and compliance with testing standards.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to changing project demands and site conditions.
• Commitment to working safely, ethically, and responsibly at all times.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record and ability to operate company vehicles safely.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience or training in concrete testing and concrete inspection.
• Exposure to construction materials testing, including concrete, asphalt, and soils.
• Familiarity with nuclear density gauge operation and safety practices.
• Knowledge of soil sampling techniques, soil classification, and compaction testing.
• Background or coursework in civil engineering, geology, or related fields.
• Awareness of industry certifications such as ACI and NICET related to construction materials testing.

Work Environment

This role primarily operates in a field environment on active construction sites, complemented by work in a laboratory and office setting for testing, data entry, and reporting. The technician regularly uses specialized materials testing equipment, including nuclear density gauges and devices for concrete, asphalt, and soil testing, and relies on computers or tablets with common business and proprietary software to document results and prepare reports. Work hours may vary based on project schedules and site requirements, and the position involves driving to different project locations using company vehicles. The environment requires strict adherence to safety policies and regulations, use of appropriate personal protective equipment, and a professional appearance suitable for both field and office interactions. The culture emphasizes safety, ethical conduct, accuracy, and collaboration with clients, contractors, and team members to support high-quality construction outcomes

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Nashville, TN.

Pay And Benefits

The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $21.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Nashville,TN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 22, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email [e-mail] for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.