Construction Materials Technician

Actalent; Virginia (IL); On-site; USD 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Actalent is seeking a Construction Materials Technician (Construction Inspector) to be onsite in Sandston, VA, performing testing, inspection, and documentation on active construction sites.

You will conduct field observations, test soils, aggregates, concrete, grout, masonry, asphalt, and steel, coordinating with project teams while adhering to safety standards and project specifications.

Qualifications

• 2+ years in construction materials testing or a closely related field.
• Valid driver’s license and active insurance.
• Willingness to obtain basic-level certifications and at least two advanced certifications in relevant areas.
• Experience with concrete testing and inspection.

Responsibilities

• Perform field observation, testing, sampling, and inspection of construction materials on construction sites.
• Execute field tasks under guidance of senior technicians and project managers.
• Conduct routine field tests for soils, aggregates, concrete, grout, masonry, asphalt, and structural steel.
• Prepare clear field reports documenting site observations and test results.
• Maintain daily communication with site contractors and project teams to coordinate testing activities.
• Attend project meetings to discuss progress, findings and any testing issues.

Skills

Construction materials testing

Field inspection

Safety procedures

Data entry & reporting

Communication skills

Driving to sites

MS Office

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Concrete testing equipment

Job description

Job Description

Job Description

Construction Materials Technician (Construction Inspector) | Onsite in Sandston, VA | Pay: $20 - $26/hr

Job Description

This role offers the opportunity to work alongside experienced project management and field services professionals to safely perform construction materials testing, inspection, and documentation on active construction sites. You will support a variety of projects by conducting field observations, tests, and inspections on soils, aggregates, concrete, grout, masonry, asphalt, and structural steel, while building your technical expertise and professional certifications.

Responsibilities

• Perform field observation, testing, sampling, and inspection of construction materials, including soils, aggregates, concrete, grout, masonry, asphalt, and structural steel placement on construction sites.
• Execute field tasks in accordance with project requirements under the guidance of senior technicians, staff professionals, and project managers.
• Conduct routine field tests for soils, aggregates, concrete, grout, masonry, asphalt, and structural steel placement using appropriate methodologies and testing equipment that comply with industry standards and project specifications.
• Follow established procedures and standards for construction materials testing to support quality control and compliance with engineering requirements.
• Perform calculations and data reduction based on sampling, test results, and inspections, ensuring accuracy and completeness of all recorded information.
• Prepare clear and detailed field reports that document site observations, test procedures, and results for all field work performed.
• Engage in drafting and other administrative duties as needed to support project documentation and reporting.
• Maintain daily communication with site contractors, other technicians, and project managers to coordinate testing activities and resolve field issues.
• Keep supervisors and project teams informed of changing site conditions, unexpected findings, and any additional testing requested or required.
• Attend project meetings with senior staff as requested to discuss project progress, findings, and any issues related to field testing and inspection.
• Receive and apply training in established methodologies for project observations, inspections, and testing, including proper documentation of findings.
• Adhere to heavy construction safety practices and procedures at all times, including safe lifting, equipment use, and compliance with site‑specific safety rules.
• Use electronic devices such as phones, tablets, and laptops to record data, complete reports, and communicate with project teams.
• Drive to and from job sites using personal transportation, following assigned routes and directions, and ensuring timely arrival for scheduled testing and inspections.
• Lift and carry materials, equipment, and samples weighing 40–70 pounds multiple times per day, and occasionally lift up to 85 pounds to waist height as required by field activities.

Essential Skills

• Minimum of 2 years of related experience in construction materials testing, inspection, or a closely related field.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Ability and willingness to obtain and maintain current basic-level certifications and at least two advanced certifications relevant to construction materials testing.
• Experience with concrete, concrete testing, and concrete inspection.
• Experience with construction materials testing and quality control practices.
• Strong understanding of heavy construction safety, practices, and procedures.
• Valid driver’s license and active insurance.
• Ability to provide suitable personal transportation for use on job sites.
• Ability to lift and carry 40–70 pounds multiple times per day and occasionally lift up to 85 pounds to waist height.
• Strong communication skills, including clear speaking, reading, and writing abilities.
• Ability to work effectively and professionally with clients, peers, and supervisors.
• Proficiency in using electronic devices such as phones, tablets, and laptops for data entry, communication, and reporting.
• Strong math skills with the ability to read maps, follow directions, and interpret engineering and construction plans.
• Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Basic-level construction materials certifications, with a commitment to maintaining them in good standing.
• At least two advanced certifications in relevant areas such as concrete, materials testing, or related disciplines (existing or obtained after hire).
• ACI certi