Construction Services (Materials Testing) Project Manager

SOCOTEC; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

SOCOTEC is seeking a Construction Services Project Manager (Materials Testing) to oversee geotechnical earthwork, inspections, and testing projects in Irvine or Fontana, CA. You will lead field and lab operations, manage budgets and staffing, and ensure timely, compliant project delivery.

Ideal candidates bring 5+ years in testing or related fields and at least 2 years of project management experience. Strong communication and QA/QC knowledge are essential for client success and growth.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years in construction materials testing or related field.
• At least 2 years of project management experience.
• Experience managing multiple projects and client relationships.
• Knowledge of earthwork, materials testing, QA/QC practices.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee geotechnical earthwork, inspections, and materials testing projects from proposal through completion.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, contractors, architects, engineers, and stakeholders.
• Coordinate field inspection, laboratory testing, and staffing to meet schedules and client expectations.
• Manage project budgets, schedules, profitability, and resource allocation.
• Prepare proposals, fee estimates, scopes of work, and quantity take-offs.
• Review field reports, lab results, and project documentation.
• Respond to RFIs and provide technical support for testing and earthwork activities.
• Assist clients in resolving construction-related issues and non-conforming work.
• Monitor performance and ensure QA/QC compliance with standards.
• Coordinate with field technicians and lab staff to support delivery.
• Develop and maintain client relationships and seek repeat business.
• Support business development through proposals and client meetings.

Skills

Organizational skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Verbal communication

Written communication

Education

Civil Engineering, Engineering Geology, Materials Engineering, Construction Management, or related field

Job description

About SOCOTEC

SOCOTEC is a provider of niche consulting services within the architecture, engineering and construction industries focusing on high-performance buildings and specialty structures. Through an integrated, holistic approach, our professionals provide solutions for building envelope, energy efficiency, sustainability, code advisory and construction advisory projects.

Job Description

We are seeking a Construction Services (Materials Testing) Project Manager to oversee geotechnical earthwork, special inspection, and construction materials testing projects. This role is responsible for managing project execution, coordinating with clients and project teams, overseeing field and laboratory operations, and ensuring projects are completed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with project requirements.

Location: Irvine or Fontana, California (Irvine preferred)

Responsibilities

• Manage geotechnical earthwork, special inspection, and construction materials testing projects from proposal through project completion.


• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, contractors, architects, engineers, and project stakeholders.


• Coordinate field inspection, laboratory testing, and project staffing resources to meet project schedules and client expectations.


• Manage project budgets, schedules, profitability, and resource allocation.


• Prepare proposals, fee estimates, scopes of work, and materials quantity take-offs.


• Review and evaluate field reports, daily inspection reports, laboratory test results, and project documentation.


• Respond to RFIs and provide technical support related to construction materials testing, inspection, and earthwork activities.


• Assist clients and project teams in resolving construction‑related issues and non‑conforming work.


• Monitor project performance and ensure compliance with company quality assurance standards and project requirements.


• Coordinate with field technicians, special inspectors, laboratory personnel, and project managers to support successful project delivery.


• Develop and maintain strong client relationships and identify opportunities for repeat business and project growth.


• Support business development and marketing efforts through proposal preparation, client meetings, and project pursuits.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in construction materials testing, special inspections, geotechnical construction services, or a related field with increasing levels of responsibility.


• Minimum of 2 years of project management experience preferred.


• Experience managing multiple projects, budgets, schedules, and client relationships.


• Strong understanding of earthwork, construction materials testing, special inspections, and construction quality assurance/quality control practices.


• Experience reviewing field reports, laboratory testing results, and construction documentation.


• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem‑solving skills.


• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.


• Ability to effectively manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced construction environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Degree in Civil Engineering, Engineering Geology, Materials Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field.


• Experience with geotechnical engineering, earthwork construction, grading, and foundation‑related projects.


• Familiarity with Southern California construction practices, building codes, and regulatory requirements.


• Professional certifications such as ICC, ACI, NICET, or related construction inspection and testing certifications.


• Established relationships within the local engineering, construction, and development community.


• Experience preparing proposals, cost estimates, and materials quantity take-offs.

Additional Information

Salary range: $110,000-$135,000/year, depending on qualifications.

Job Type: Full-Time.

Your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

For more information, please visit www.socotec.us

SOCOTEC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.